Much To Be Said About Good Dads
Having a good dad can make all the difference in the life of a child. All of us know of a really good dad, whether our own or someone else's. Likewise, all of us have seen dads who aren't that great or who, perhaps, are just downright unfit for parenting. There is a great deal that can be said about good dads and the absolute best way to be a good dad is to know the scriptures and to appreciate their wisdom.
First and foremost, good dads are good husbands. A husband who puts his wife's welfare in front of his own is a husband who understands the model he is to follow: Jesus Christ. Paul tells husbands to, "love their wives just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her" (Ephesians 5:25). When children see their dad loving their mother by sacrificing for her and putting her needs first, they'll see what Godly men are like. For sons and daughters alike, seeing their father as a good husband will only enhance their futures. Sons will know how they should treat their future wives and daughters will know what to expect from their boyfriends before agreeing to marry them.
Good dads also understand the important role they have in raising children who know and respect God and His teachings. Paul writes, "fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). The word "bring" is a simple action verb, but doing that is anything but simple. Bringing up children who have solid, spiritually oriented foundations is a tough thing to do. Yet, with God's help and a strong determination to truly live out His word, it is possible. In order for fathers to succeed in doing this, they have to make sure they're living correctly. No dad will be successful in teaching his children about the importance of Bible study, prayer, serving others, attending church services, and the like while not being dedicated to those same things. Really good dads are ones who recognize their God ordained responsibilities, take them seriously, and work daily to live consistently for Christ.
It's unfortunate that the world doesn't determine what makes a good dad based on Biblical principles. There are times, consequently, when dads are called "good" who aren't loving husbands or haven't instilled the importance of God in the minds of their children. If you have a dad who does recognize the importance of the Bible and its teachings, be thankful for him. And if you yourself are a dad, think seriously about what makes a good father and dedicate yourself to achieving the title of being a really good dad today!