Celebrating dads who make a difference

Today is a special day to honor the men we call Dad. A fathers role is a serious one, filled with decisions, responsibilities, obligations, time constraints, duties, and a host of other things that make up their daily routines. But at the forefront of all those fatherly duties is the love and investment they have in their children.

There are children everywhere who have been blessed to grow up with the love of a godly father. Dads are the backbone of the family and are key to leading their families with faith, character, and integrity. While family situations may vary, children should know they are loved and a gift from God.

“A righteous man who walks in his integrity. How blessed are his children after him.” Proverbs 20:7 

Regardless of what the ideal family looks like, God watches over each one. His provision and protection are immeasurable. And He loves unconditionally.

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are.” 1 John 3:1

There are also children and families with dads whose careers relocate them to another part of the country or even across the globe. And while distance plays a significant part in the every day scene, their ability to be godly fathers is ever present in the lives of their children because of their actions. Make the best of whatever your situation is.

Fathers teach life-long lessons, influence their children with wisdom, and create opportunities that help strengthen and grow their relationships. Every move a dad makes has an impact on their children.

10 ways Dads make a difference

• Pray with your children. Teach them early to love the Lord and share the stories and lessons so beautifully told through God’s word. Matthew 22:37-39
• Love their mother. Relationships are not perfect, but how you treat her speaks volumes about who you are. Show your children what respect and kindness looks like. Genesis 2:24
• Lead by example. If you want to teach your children about a life of service, then serve others and communicate to your children the significance of doing so. A servant’s heart is key to doing for others. Proverbs 20:7
• Attend worship together. Children mimic what they see or hear. Share with them your love for the Lord by reading the bible together, teaching them to take notes in church, and discussing with them God’s lessons for us through scripture. Deuteronomy 6:4-9
• Communicate with your children. If you’re going to be away for a period of time, write each child a letter. What you say to them speaks directly to their hearts. Children love mail and a personalized note or phone call to each one builds a special connection between a father and his children. 1 John 2:14
• Teach your children to work. An honest day’s work teaches commitment, perseverance, collaboration, and how to work with others, even when challenges crop up. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
• Follow through with your commitments. If you tell your children you’re going to something, then do it. Making promises and then consistently breaking them leads to a disconnect in the relationship; followed by trust issues and diminished credibility. Hebrews 4:12
• Acknowledge your children and their differences. This is not a one-size-fits all deal. Occasionally children will love the same things or play the same sports or activities. But more times than not, children are opposites and deserve to develop their own abilities, talents, and skills. Show them that you appreciate variety and that what they do matters. Psalm 139:13-16
• Engage your kids in conversation, activities, and father/child time. Show your kids that you are available to talk with them about anything. Comfort and safety go a long way in keeping the communication lines open. The ultimate compliment is your kids wanting to talk to you about anything and everything. Proverbs 15:1
• Love unconditionally. There are times when our kids will blow it. And let’s be honest–some will blow it big time. But just as we’ve messed up, our Heavenly Father continues to love us despite the messes we make. There may be lessons and consequences to what we do, but the love of a Father is one of life’s great masterpieces. Be the dad that’s always there for your son or daughter. Actions speak volumes. John 3:16

I pray you are a blessing to your kids today and every day, and that you are a difference maker.

Happy Father’s Day!

Blessings & Hugs to you in the week ahead.

Mitzi