As a dad, I am constantly evaluating how I am doing as a father. Like all parents, I have things I do well and things that I greatly need to improve. One of the things that I try to think about is that I am not just a dad; I am a Christian dad. There are so many things that, as a dad, I want for my children, but more than anything else, I need to want and to work towards them being faithful servants of God with a faith of their own. However, how do I do this? What are some things that would help me be a better Christian dad and help my children develop a faith of their own?
Have a Convicted, Growing and Working Faith (Hebrews 11:1; 2 Peter 1:5–8; James 2:14–26; Philippians 4:9). The excuse given by many children who walk away from God is that they did not see a living and active faith among their parents or other adult mentors. How convicted am I really? Is it evident to others?
Make God and the Church a Priority (Matthew 6:33; Mark 12:30; Ecclesiastes 12:13). If God and the church are not a priority to us, why would our children want to make Him a priority for them? God is to be more than first; He is to be our all.
Teach the Truth, the Whole Truth and Nothing but the Truth (John 17:17; Acts 20:27; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:1–5). I cannot teach what I do not know. If I, as a parent, don’t teach them about God, who will? The world is teaching them about sin.
Train and Provide Opportunities for Growth (Proverbs 22:6; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; 1 Timothy 4:8; 2 Peter 1:5–8; 1 Timothy 4:12–16). Training involves teaching, demonstrations, practice, commitment, discipline and endurance. How can we expect children to do something if they have not been shown how?
Discipline and Hold Yourself and Your Children Accountable (Ephesians 6:1–4; Proverbs 13:24; Hebrews 12:11; 1 Corinthians 9:27; Proverbs 3:11–12). How can we say we love God if we don’t keep His commandments? How can we say we love our children if there is no discipline or accountability?
We serve a compassionate and forgiving Father Who loves and cares for us. Let us encourage ourselves and our children with these words.
