Fathers are an Unforgetable Influence on Our Life

I had the privilege of receiving an amazing message from Pastor Rick at Palm Valley Church in Mission, Texas this past Sunday. Usually Father’s Day messages tend to be about how today’s dads are not doing a great job.  Many times in the media and in society dads are depicted as stupid, inept, or absent in their families lives.  Contrary to conventional thought Pastor Rick shared some great thoughts on just how much fathers have the ability to speak truth and love into their children.

Fathers have a tremendous influence on us and on shaping who we become as adults by their words and actions.  As children we yearn for their love and approval in all we do.  Our father’s moments of interaction with us become records we play and replay over and over again in our mind throughout our lives.  Words are powerful and a child’s spirit can be either built up by dad’s encouragement or broken when he speaks untruth and negativity.

Four Phrases from Dad that need to be the Top Recording in His Child’s Mind

1. “I love you!”   A child has to know they are loved by dad.  They need to hear it.  That love has to be expressed unconditionally, (not limited by conditions; absolutely), and irrationally, (without the faculty of reason; deprived of reason).  It must confirm who they are and backed with action.  Everyone receives love differently.  Some require the spoken words accompanied by quality time spent together.  Others need physical affection through touch and to some love is demonstrated through the giving of tangible gifts.
2. “I’m Sorry!”  When dad makes a mistake he must admit it and ask for forgiveness.  There is no room for side stepping truth or making excuses.  Dad, let your child know you are not perfect.  Humility brings freshness and hope to relationships.  Dads need to model repentance through their words and actions.
3. “I believe in you!”  Your child’s self worth is formed by your affirmation in the smallest of things.  Affirmation motivates your child to try harder.  Affirmation empowers your child and it influences their lives by creating in them strong and healthy self-images.  Tell them “You’re Awesome!”  Acknowledge even their smallest victories and successes.  As they grow and mature they will replay that record repeatedly whenever faced with a difficult life challenges.
4. “I’m praying for you!”  Dads let your child know that you are praying for them.  Let them know that you pray for their future, their education, their friendships, and their future spouse. They need to hear your words, your prayers, and your open conversation with God.  If they hear you talking to God they will talk to God and they will know that their life is important because, “dad prays for me!” 

Here are three generations of men I love dearly.  Grandpa Doug has passed his legacy of love to Andrew who became a new father on June 5, 2015.