John’s June Review: 5 Thoughts for Effective Fathers

Jun 30 2022 John’s June Review: 5 Thoughts for Effective Fathers

Summer is in full swing, but Punky and I have taken a couple weeks this month to rest and recharge as we prepare for the Fall season. Earlier this month, we celebrated Father’s Day, and if you’re a parent, I’m sure you feel it as much as I do… more than ever, as fathers we need to rely on the Lord to be able to lead our children effectively and spiritually in today’s world.

As a dad, you are the most powerful person in the world in your children’s lives. If you don’t have it together, there is no way they can either.

So, in honor of all dads everywhere, I want to pass along five thoughts regarding how to be an effective father.

1. An effective father has his priorities together in the following areas:
   1. Personal Area: As a father, you have to get your “stuff” together! Who you are is more important than what you do because who you are will determine what you do. If you want to work on “who you are,” check out Matthew 5-7 where Jesus talks about character development.
   2. Marital Area: If you do not have it together personally, you will not have it together maritally. As a husband, you are to love your wife as Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:25) and you are to lead her as Christ lead the church (Ephesians 5:23). Trust me guys, your children are watching how you treat your wife!
   3. Parental Area: Your presence, as a father, in your children’s life is vital to their growth, development and maturity. Be present, be involved and love them unconditionally.
   4. Professional Area: As an effective father, you have to carry yourself with integrity in the workplace. You cannot be one person at work and another person at home. Your character at the office affects your character in your marriage and your ability to be an effective father.
2. An effective father has the right attitude. Your attitude is more important than action because attitudes determine actions.
3. An effective father communicates his love. You do this through giving your children quality time (undivided attention), showing interest, and listening. Every child needs to hear that you, as their father, loves them.
4. An effective father affirms his children in every way. Verbal compliments, or words of appreciation, are powerful communicators of love. They are best expressed in simple, straightforward statements, such as, “You look sharp in that suit.” Or “You played a wonderful game today. I am so proud of how you kept your eye on the ball when you were at the plate.”
5. An effective father is dependent upon The Lord. The secret to Godly, responsible children is a Godly, responsible dad! Seek the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength (Matt. 22:37-38).

How can we pray for you? Punky and I consider it a great privilege to pray for you — specifically, for a need or burden you might have, or to celebrate what God is doing in your life. This is one way we can stay connected to do you and do life together. Just comment here and let us know how to pray — and we will. 

Warmly in Him,

John Tolson