The Importance of Being a Strong Father-Men's Ministry

Author:
June 08, 2023

Fathers do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4) NLT

I heard this bible verse repeatedly, when I was growing up. It was never explained to me that this could be useful as a guide for training your children. However, as I matured in my Christian growth, I found myself repeating it, especially on the birth of our children. Fathers and Mothers work together as one in focusing on raising the children. The Mother’s role is much more varied than the Father. Therefore, their union has to be strong and on one accord when vital decisions are made.

Fathers have three essential roles in bringing up the children. He is the Provider, Protector and the Disciplinarian. Being the Father, through my learning and observing my father, the Father was the primary provider and decision maker. A father’s love is central in the development of the child and the forming of a strong family unit. 1 Timothy 5:8 tells us,” But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he had denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever. Providing for your wife’s spiritual and emotional needs is significant in the strengthening of the family. Father as a protector means to protect them from hurt, harm or danger. Fathers cannot be with the children at all times, but they can instill in them to have respect for authority and adults. Fathers can also protect the children by informing them of possible dangers within the community and making them aware of neighborhoods that may not be as safe as their own. It’s through the wisdom of the father that, we should trust in the Lord and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Father as a Disciplinarian is one of the most difficult tasks I had to undertake. As a Father in the disciplinarian role I had to be calm, understanding and know what measures to take to resolve the situation. I grew up during the times of spanking and things that I wanted to take part in, were temporarily taken away. When disciplining children nowadays it has to be safe and respectful. I had girls and I had to be patient in my method of disciplining them. Children are different and one, I could get away with shouting and the other I had to be calm. They came to understand how to respond to situations in a positive and responsive manner. Children look to the Father to lay down the law and enforce them whether they like them or not. Through it all and careful parenting with Love, spiritual Guidance and Faith, our family circle remains strong and intact. I would like to encourage all Fathers to take a leading role in  the formation of your family and becoming a strong father. Being a strong father is an important part of my life but, Love for God and Love for Family means everything to me!

Humbly Submitted
Deacon Carl D. Batts

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