Two scriptures I think about a lot when it comes to fatherhood:
1️⃣ Ephesians 6:4 “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
2️⃣ Colossians 3:21 “Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
“exasperate…embitter…discourage…
Dang, I unfortunately have that effect all the time. How do I know? I taught my kids Ephesians 6:4, and now they tell me when they feel exasperated!
The solution I see is also in Ephesians 6:4 – “training”… “instruction”.
My six and nine year old respond well to training.
When I lovingly teach them outside of the heated moment, when we role play and make it fun, and when I creativity motivate them, I see them grow.
But y’all… It takes a lot of work and energy. It’s easier for me to demand obedience in the moment, and expect it because I’m their dad.
That’s why I’m glad a Higher Authority in our house gives me expectations in my role as a father that my kids know about. How can I expect my kids to listen quickly if I’m not listening to God?