Read:
Psalms 78:5-7 “He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.”
Think:
Fathers can come to the parenting game a little later than mothers. While a mother has nine months to prepare for the arrival of their new family member, dads are often left as observers until the "delivery room discovery" hits. At this moment, a rational choice is made to alter their life, schedule, direction, and priorities to become a good dad to the tiny life in their arms.
However, the decision to be a father is not just a one-time delivery room decision. It is a daily choice that requires ongoing effort and dedication. To be a good dad, a father must carefully manage his time and reconcile work with the priority of family. This means making tough and sacrificial decisions that demonstrate what is important to them and their children.
Being a good dad also involves being involved with their kids, being available, and taking an interest in their children's interests. But it doesn't stop there. Dads must also decide what kind of role models they want to be for their children. They must lead by example and show their children the importance of honesty, respect, kindness, and other positive values. To be a godly father means deciding early to be active participants in a local church and leading your home toward Jesus. To be a godly father you must personally be growing spiritually.
While becoming a father may start with a delivery room decision, it is a daily choice that requires constant effort and dedication. By managing their time, being involved with their kids, and serving as godly role models, dads can demonstrate what it means to be a Christian and create a desire for their children to know more of Jesus.
Apply:
Renew your “dad decision.” Lead your child toward God and godly choices.
Pray:
Heavenly Father, help me to become more like you. Renew in me a fresh desire and intimacy with you. Allow me to focus on my relationship with my kids and family and develop a godly perspective on balance. In Jesus' name, Amen.