What Fathers Should Know Best

I worry about the vacuum left in our culture by absentee fathers. I know the obstacles can be enormous; a lot of men are divorced or have jobs that keep them on the road much of the time. It’s hard to balance meeting the family’s financial needs with meeting their emotional needs.

And even when a man is in the home, he can become an “absentee father” by turning his kids over to the TV set or video games, or to other people. The children often get the leftovers of Dad’s time.

Those of us who are fathers need to be careful to not become absentee dads—at any level, whether by being away from home too much or by being unavailable when we’re there. Too many kids, especially young men and boys, are growing up without a male role model in the house. Our society often equates fatherhood with financial support, but it’s so much more.

There is no better way to make a mark in this world, to shape the next generation, and to leave a lasting legacy than to show love and acceptance to your own kids.

His Promises

Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged.

Direct your children onto the right path,

and when they are older, they will not leave it.

The LORD is like a father to his children,

tender and compassionate to those who fear him.