I've thought a lot this week about what my greatest focus has been regarding my kids the past 3 years or so. For reasons I won't re-hash here it's something that I needed to actually "decide" awhile ago due to circumstances of life.
One word that resonated with me was "stability". Sure several other concepts for focus I thought about. But this one was the one that rose to the surface in my heart.
See whether you are a married dad or single one, this should be one of the highest priorities on your list. So what does that mean? Stability?
Maybe it means for you that as a dad you strive to keep roots down in your particular town and same school system, etc.
For me though it was much less "material related". Follow me here for a minute.
Stability meant the actions I had in responding to the negative circumstances around me. Why? Cause little eyes are watching. And how I responded was as important as anything else.
Did I always get it right? Nope. Still don't.
But, my heart knew I must take my call as a dad serious enough that I would run things through the constant filter of "what's best for them". Not what I want.
Now you say that seems pretty simple. Or maybe you think it's just being an adult.
Our society is full of dad's who don't choose anything close to stability for their kids.
Stability means... Unconditional love, integrity in the face of lies, the respect they see me show the women that interact in their lives, and setting aside personal goals for their greater good.
A more fulfilling life journey it has created for me ...honestly.
Stability leads to parenting kids that actually listen and do what's right ...because they see that example in we as dads.
Having kids that listen to you means you must first have kids that connect with you! Be fun, inspire them, believe in them, and point them to Jesus.
Stability for our kids isn't just about providing material needs. It's the life you lead in front of them that so loudly preaches the greatest sermon.
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