Role Number 3: Dads are teachers who impart wisdom and build character. One of your greatest responsibilities, dads, is to build values, principles, convictions, and integrity into your children so that when they face tough decisions, they make the right choices.

You need to teach your kids what's right and what's wrong. They need to know what's expected, and you need to be there to help keep them on course. And as you teach your kids, do so in such a way that it doesn't exasperate them (Ephesians 6:4). Don't have unrealistic expectations or treat them with undue harshness when they fail. And remember it's not what you say that teaches them the most - it's how you live. Take advantage of those “teachable moments” that come in the form of struggles at school, rejection by their peers, and disobedience at home.

Role Number 4: Dads are lovers who give their kids what they need most. As a dad, you need to connect with your kids at a deep level so you can give them what they really need. You've got to know more about your kids than what grades they get on their report cards. You need to know how your kids are doing inside. Spend enough time with your children to learn how they're doing spiritually, emotionally, and socially.

Monitor their friendships, their moods, and their attitudes so you know when and where to set boundaries. Evaluate their failures so you know whether you should be tender or exercise tough love.

Get involved in their lives and be their number one cheerleader-let them know they're appreciated and loved unconditionally. Tell them you love them by saying those magical words, “I love you,” and give them a hug, a squeeze, or a pat on the shoulder when you do.

And let them know you care about them by celebrating special moments with them. Make birthdays a big deal. Really celebrate milestones and achievements like awards, graduations, and athletic or musical accomplishments. And when life deals them a tough blow, be their comforter. Let them know you'll always be there for them no matter what.

Being a great dad isn't easy, but I'm confident that if you invest your time and effort in fulfilling your roles as a father, you will receive abundant reward.

And above all, remember this: If you want godly kids, you've got to be a godly dad. You need to be a man of God's Word, a man of integrity, and a man after God's own heart. Because like it or not, your kids are going to turn out a lot like you.

Excerpted from EdgeNotes, the bi-monthly newsletter of Living on the Edge; based on the series Portrait of a Father. Used with permission.
Copyright 2004 by Chip Ingram. All rights reserved.
About the author: Chip Ingram is President of Walk Thru the Bible in Atlanta, GA, and Teaching Pastor of Living on the Edge, a national radio ministry.

Content provided by: Oneplace.com