Secrets of Successful Dads

One of my great joys is getting to observe and know many wonderful parents. Recently, I was thinking of how many men I know who are making an amazing impact on the lives of their children.  I asked some of these dads if they would be willing to share a few secrets of their success so that I could pass their wisdom along to other men.  What does success for a Christian father look like? I used these points as criteria for identifying dads who are successful in parenting:

1)    Their children show evidence of a desire to follow God.
2)    Their children have found or are finding the unique paths God has for them to pursue
3)    Their relationship with their children is marked by mutual respect, love, and enjoyment

Several dads, in various stages of parenting, have shared insights into what they consider to be the most important things a father can do. These responses have been fascinating!  How I’ve loved reading their tips! What they have written has been especially meaningful for me since I know these men well and can tell you without reservation that the lives they live match the words they wrote.  My promise to them is that their names won’t be used, but I promise you these men are worth learning from. From the practical to the profound, I believe you will find their insights valuable.

“Important Things for Dads” from an unnamed but successful dad:

The following is a list of things I strive to do and be, sometimes succeeding, many times failing.  Many of these I saw in my own father, who was and still is the biggest influence on my life.

1. Keep a proper perspective – things are never as bad or as good as they first seem.  Do not over react – remember that God is truly in control of all things and will use events for good to those who love Him and are called to His purposes.  When things are going bad, ask “God, please keep my heart and eyes open to see how you are working in this situation.”
2. Honor your wife.  Be faithful to her in every aspect of marriage: love her, honor her, cherish her, and be loyal to her every day.
3. Make your family a priority, Spend as much time as possible with the family.  Enjoy the things they enjoy.
4. Seek to honor God in every word and action while remembering that you are the biggest influence on your kids, particularly on your sons.
5. Strive to live a life of integrity in every area of your life; the kids are watching you.  Encourage the kids to want the first words they hear when they see Jesus to be (i) “Well done good and faithful servant …” and (ii) “Behold, a Texan in whom there is no guile/no deceit/nothing false.” (John 1:47)
6. Set high expectations for your kids.
7. Remind the kids that God is always with them, not watching them to see mistakes, but to lead, protect, and encourage them.