Thursday; February 8

Have you noticed how much pressure is put on mothers to raise the children? While I think there is quite a bit of self-imposed pressure on moms to do right by their children, I also believe that society has put an extra load of responsibility on mothers to make sure our children are fed, clothed and educated. To add to that basic formula is the next level of education – both academic and spiritual upbringing. Now, while it is natural for children to turn to their mothers for support, we must make sure that fathers aren’t a forgotten part of the equation. Social studies show that the presence of a father can be an important part of a child’s upbringing. Depending on which statistic you read, it also appears that the absence of a supportive father can have a negative impact on the development of children. However, it isn’t just a 21st Century social statement that fathers should be part of their children’s lives, it has a biblical foundation as well. The New Testament challenges dads, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4). As we see, it isn’t just modern society that is watching fathers, it’s the Lord as well.

Fathers, let’s make sure we are leading our children to become the best they can be. Not only is it socially irresponsible to abdicate our responsibility, we will be held accountable by our Father in heaven if we don’t fulfill our duty.

Think About It!

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