June 15, 2014

Father's Day is Every Day

Me, My Children and My Mom
I'm the father of three beautiful children. I've done my best ... but, Lord knows that I'm work in progress as a father. I created a Pinterest board called, 'Fatherhood Favorites'. Here are some of the things that I've learned over the years ... my personal 'call to action'!
  1. Be a Father of Prayer. Your prayers help give direction to your children's lives. Prayer with your family is the greatest gift you can leave your children.
  2. Be a Role Model to Your Children. You are being watched and studied by your children. Sons want to be just like their dad. Daughters want to marry a man just like their dad.
  3. Be a Teacher. Dads don't the teaching to Moms. Be alert for every day examples you can use to teach your children the lessons of life. Check out Ephisians 6:4 for the source of this one.
  4. Communicate to Your Children On All Levels, Not Just Correction. Talk to your children about everything. Be interested in their views, issues and ideas. If you do this when they are young, dialogue won't be so difficult when they are older.
  5. Discipline and Correct With a Gentle Spirit. When you discipline your children be calm but firm. Proverbs 3:12 tells us, 'For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.'
  6. Get Involved in the Lives of Your Children. Work with them on science projects, homework and other school activities. Pray together -- OFTEN!
  7. My Dad and Me
  8. Give Your Approval. Matthew 3:17 tells us, "And lo a voice from heaven, saying , This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Fathers need to make sure that we acknowledge the accomplishments of our children. We must let them know that we are proud (and well pleased) of them.
  9. Realize a Father's Work is Never Done. Hey Papa-Bear, your support will always play a vital role in your child's life ... no matter how old they are. Long after homework, ball games, and recitals are over, your children will still need your LOVE, support, guidance and encouragement.
  10. Respect Your Children's Mother. As it says in Proverbs 31:28, "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."
  11. Show Affection. As a child grows, so does his or her need for acceptance and a sense of belonging. Give a word of encouragement. Take every opportunity to say, 'I LOVE YOU'.
  12. Spend Time With Your Children. Children realize they are valuable to their father when he is thoughtful and concerned about them as he is about his other interests.
Father's Day is Every Day!

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