Fathers have a special opportunity to equip their children for living a life that pleases God. In many families Mothers assume this responsibility. Not that they shouldn’t be a vital part of this process, but not as a replacement for the Father.
Many children are exasperated by either an absent Father who doesn’t take an active part in their upbringing or by a Father who is insensitive and harsh. Mothers can’t take the place of Fathers. But they can compliment them by working together as a loving and supportive team, training and instructing their children.
Training has to do with modeling or mentoring. Children need to see in their parents how God wants them to live. Often a parent’s inconsistent actions speak so loud their children can’t hear what they are trying to teach them. Christ-like living by parents goes a long way in positively impacting their children.
Sometimes parents try teaching at times that are convenient for them rather than looking for the teachable moment in the life of their child. This doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be times for formal teaching, but learning often takes place best when truth is discovered or applied in the flow of family life.
That’s why you read in Deuteronomy 6:4, “These commandments…are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”
