This sermon is about four things concerning father and children that you should know and do. Solomon gave fathers some clear instructions. Fathers should:
Counsel our children – Prov 1:8, 4:1. Our children have many instructors. They are instructed by TV, friends, teachers, media, etc. However, you’re the one they need to hear the most. You are like a coach to your children. Train up a child, Prov 22:6 says.
A wise son heareth his father’s instruction, Prov 13:1. A wise son maketh a glad father, Prov 15:20. A fool despiseth his father’s instruction, Prov 15:5. The father of a fool hath no joy, Prov 17:21. Your child may be a wise child or a fool. But don’t let them be foolish because they haven’t heard your instruction.
Command our children – Prov 6:20. Commands are not suggestions. They are commands and they should be given with authority. Children need commands and they need to be under authority.
The modern dad is portrayed as a wimp. He appears to be incapable of handling himself, much less his wife and children. So he is not respected. Don’t be one of these dads. Be manly and in command.
Correct our children – Prov 3:12. Use the rod. He that spareth his rod hateth his son, but he that loveth him chasteneth his betimes, Prov 13:24. Your children need to be corrected and they need to know that you love them enough to do this.
Prov 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. The alternative is not good. What mother wants to bear the shame of a child left to himself.
Converse with our children – Prov 23:22. Talk with them about anything and everything. My father died 27 years ago. I didn’t really converse with him about many things I would like to have discussed when I was a young man.
Families are very dysfunctional today. Everyone seems to be on a cell phone or a computer and there is little conversation among parents and kids. Don’t let this happen in your home.
Conclusion: If you haven’t done these four things, it’s never too late to start. If you’re doing some but not all, then add those things that are lacking. You will never regret the changes you make according to the wisdom you learned from the Bible today.