Ten Things Not to Do as a Father, Part 3

##**"Be Strong and Show Yourself a Man"**

In the Bible, 1 Kings 2:2, David tells his son Solomon, "I go the way of all the earth; be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man." David's advice isn't merely about being a great king or a good father. It’s a call to be a good man, foundational for all other roles.

To be a man, David emphasizes walking in God's ways, keeping His statutes, commandments, judgments, and testimonies as written in the law of Moses.

**The Path to Manhood**

The question arises: How does one become a man? It's not about joining a gym or running marathons. It's about keeping God's commandments, fearing Him, and thereby prospering. Every man desires to leave a meaningful legacy, fulfilling God's responsibilities placed upon him.

David's advice is timeless: Don't strive to be a great father or a great king first. Strive to be a good man. Good men love their wives and care for their children. He obeys God's word, which says marriage is to be holy and honorable, and that one should not be unequally yoked. A good man honors God’s word, and as a result, his life prospers.

**The Need for Good Men**

Today, there is a shortage of good men. Boys may inhabit male bodies, but true manhood is marked by assertiveness, planning for the future, seeking a wife instead of a girlfriend, taking responsibility, and living with integrity. You can't be a good father without first being a good man. The Bible focuses more on being a good man than a good father because the qualities of a good man naturally extend to fatherhood.

**The Role of Fathers**

Studies show that children with fathers are less likely to be poor, more likely to succeed in school, avoid jail, and stay away from substance abuse and teenage pregnancies. They are also less likely to be involved in violent crimes, suffer from mental health issues, or be obese. Fathers play a crucial role in their children's verbal development and overall happiness.

### **Practical Ways to Be a Good Father**

1. **Love Their Mother:** Whether married or not, show respect for the mother of your children. This sets a strong example.

2. **Provide and Care:** Reflect God's love in your actions.

3. **Instruct in Righteousness:** It’s your responsibility, not the school’s or church's, to teach your children to fear God.

4. **Discipline Appropriately:** Correct your children with love, not anger.

5. **Don't Provoke to Anger:** Ephesians 6:4 advises, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord."

**Ten Things Not to Do as a Father**

1. Don't act like their god; you're their guardian.

2. Don't speak death over your child.

3. Don't ever hit your child.

4. Don't spank with your hand; use a tool if necessary.

5. Don't compare your child to others.

6. Don't use scripture against them during conflicts.

7. Don't tell them they have a demon when they disagree with you.

8. Don't say they'll reap what they sow as a form of punishment.

9. Don't make them responsible for your emotions.

10. Don't treat them like children when they're adults; respect their boundaries.

Prayer

Lord, we ask for Your strength and wisdom to be good men and fathers. Guide us in Your ways, help us to obey Your commandments, and lead our families with love, integrity, and faith. May we turn our hearts toward our children and be the godly example they need. Amen.