The reason for the question mark at the end of the title is that If we as Fathers (and you know who you are) are really honest with ourselves, we in all actuality have no idea what we’re doing. Now, when I say that, I don’t mean we’re complete morons and we can’t even change diapers correctly, although I think my wife would argue with me on that one. Anyway, what I’m referring to is that there are essentially no “great Fathers” out there. We’re all using the techniques we learned from our Dads as well as those little things our wives show us from their silly women’s magazines about what a good husband should be…blah..blah!

I think the first step to becoming a great Father is listening to your Heavenly Father. How did He treat His Son? With compassion, scorn, and at times even turned His back on Him. I know you’re saying to yourself, I would never turn my back on my son or daughter, and you’re right. You wouldn’t, but He did!

Translated to us in this day and age, I believe that means that sometimes we may have to let them do things they may regret in order that they will learn from those things. I will tell you one thing. Parenting in any form isn’t easy. I know. I have three children of my own and I don’t know what I would do without them, but they can be a challenge at times. On top of directing our children, we as Fathers are also Husbands and called to direct our households by “doing what is right and just”.

What it all boils down to is possessing certain qualities which you already possess or will learn as a Father. Some of the qualities include even-temper, firmness but kindness, and never waiver on your rules. Set a clear standard with your children and lead them by example as Jesus did. Jesus never told his apostles to do anything He Himself would not do. Most of all, show them the caring and loving side of you and reward them when they’ve done something good.

“For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just…” – Genesis 18:19