A challenge from Ephesians.

There are many times in the Bible in which a challenge is issued to dads. Paul challenges fathers in Ephesians 6:4.

“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.”

Here are 4 take-aways.

Keep love at the front

God does nothing apart from love. The discipline and instruction he offers is given in love. The decisions he makes are made in love. The actions he takes are taken in love. God is love.

As dads, we should strive to model this behavior in our own lives.

Take their feelings into consideration when making decisions.

Being the leader in your home does not mean you move forward with your decision no matter what. Good leadership takes others into consideration. Before making a decision, fathers need to weigh the pros and cons. This definitely includes the feelings of our kids.

Encourage and advise

A good dad is always willing to offer encouragement and advice at the proper time.

Keep expectations realistic

We should encourage our kids to improve in their hobbies, but not place unrealistic expectations on them. Hobbies encompass many great activities but few hobbies turn into professions, so be sure to keep those expectations realistic while offering encouragement.

Paul rewords his challenge in Colossians 3:21, “Fathers, do not aggravate your children or they will become discouraged.” Are you meeting the challenge?

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