Dad: Teacher, Mentor, Trainer

Teach a youth about the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 22:6, HCSB

IT’S EASY TO READ the principles and adages expressed in Proverbs—especially one like today’s verse—and assume they’re promises that God will always fulfill. But more often than not, proverbs and principles are just that—principles that usually work out that way in our lives.

Many a dad has viewed today’s verse as God’s promise that even if his children rebel and abandon their faith, it’s a certainty that they will return. We need to understand that it’s a principle, not an absolute promise. The Bible is filled with both promises and principles; and it’s crucial to understand the difference, or we could experience great disappointment.

So what’s a dad to do? One thing is to always try to be moving ahead, encouraging your children in their faith and setting a good example.

One couple who had three boys agreed on four godly principles to instill in their sons. First, they would prepare their sons for the path, not prepare the path for their sons. Second, they would prepare their sons to do their best. Third, they would train them to be leaders. And fourth, they would teach them to deal with both open and closed doors. A boy who learns those principles is likely to hang on to his faith, even through tough times.

BOTTOM LINE

Prayerfully decide what principles you want to teach your children, and implement a plan that will help them stay strong in their faith.

Moment of Strength: Ephesians 6:1-4