From the moment you are born, you are learning social skills, a smile, a soft voice, a touch. These all contribute to your sense of being socially engaged with your surroundings. The Bible is our training manual for learning to become a successful dad with more intense social skills. For instance, the most important aspect of being social is being able to communicate effectively. Psalm 19:14 says, “May the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” This is a great memory verse to start out your day. Asking God to guard your mouth against saying things that are unkind and protecting your heart from selfish desires.
Another great resource from the Bible is the book of Proverbs. “A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.” (Proverbs 16:23) “A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.” (Proverbs 11:17) Verse after verse describes the righteous man being rewarded by God and the wicked man being trapped by evil. Where do you find yourself today? Trapped or blessed, you have the power to choose.
Here are a few ways in which you can help you become a successful dad and guide your children as they learn to become social with others.
- The art of being patient. This is a tough one to teach, but through playing board games, cards or other activities in which one must wait their turn is a valuable lesson in life. (“A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.” Proverbs 15:18)
- The art of listening and following directions is absolutely necessary to succeed in life. James 1:19-20 gives us a clear understanding of how we should live. Take note of this: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” Children need to learn that there is a time to be quiet and listen and a time to follow directions without quarreling or arguing.
- The art of organization is a skill that is totally necessary to manage life. We need routine, structure, consistency in order for things to move along smoothly in the home. Children need to see that fathers can help set up clear expectations when there are organizational skills implemented in the home. Deuteronomy 6:7-9 tells us that we are to impress the 10 Commandments on your children, …”talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road…”
- The art of friendship is so crucial to the healthy well-being of your child. During this time of social distancing and social isolation, a child can feel frustrated that they can’t play or visit with a friend. Let them know that they will be able to see their friends up close again, but until then be creative on how to continue building upon their friendships. For instance, Facetime, or Zoom calls can be helpful so that children can actually see their friends. Have your child write a note or draw a picture for a friend and either mail it or drop it off at their friend’s home.
Becoming a successful dad means being a blessing to your children by setting the example that even though we are living in a time where uncertainty is real, our hope is in our Heavenly Father who gives us hope each day. We can share our disappointments with one another, but at the end of the day, we choose faith over fear. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” Love one another, because love comes from God!
Biblical References on Becoming a Successful Dad
Communicate Effectively
“May the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)
“A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.”
(Proverbs 16:23)“A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.” (Proverbs 11:17)
Setting the Right Example
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” (1 John 4:18)