My husband is quite the super star in our home. While I’m with our kindergartener and three year old all day, feeding them and playing with them, it’s their daddy who gets flooded with adoration when coming home from work. At the sound of the garage door opening, the kids drop everything they are doing as if some super pop star has just arrived. It’s not just our boys who are excited to see him either. My husband’s arrival home means I have my best friend with me again to talk with and to help occupy the kids. We are my husband’s fan club.
I think some father’s might not realize what a special role they play in their family’s life. Maybe they haven’t been told; I hope this isn’t the case. Regardless, the role of a father and a husband in the home is so important within the dynamics of the family. Dads, your kids are watching you. Are you someone your children get excited to see once you walk in the door? Do you realize the influence you may have over your children’s perception of God? Their perspective of God may truly be influenced by how they view you. If you have a fan club at home, I hope you think about how you can be a good role model for your children especially.
I too recall my dad coming home from work and running to greet him. He appeared strong and fearless to me. He encouraged me when I needed it and he disciplined me when I needed that too. My dad wasn’t the spiritual giant by any means—and he didn’t have to be. His commitment and loyalty to my mom and us, his family, spoke volumes helping to shape my perception of my heavenly Father.
When I look at God, I see Him as strong, just, a disciplinary, One I can go to in times of trouble, the One who fills my heart with joy, the giver of life and my family… While many of these things I’ve learned from reading the Bible, they make more sense to me because I have had good examples of fathers in my own life.
Dads, please don’t underestimate your roles. You have a wonderful example in the Bible of how to be good husband and father. You don’t have to be perfect to be a good example to your children and family; seek God in obedience and watch Him bless your family’s life and yours.