TIP 14. BEING AN EXAMPLE
Many men find it sobering and challenging when they realise that as parents we are the greatest role models that our children follow in life. One of the most confronting things for some dads is the fact that our own behaviour is on show to our children 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The old adage 'Do what I say, don't do what I do', just doesn't cut it anymore.
Children listen to what their parents say initially, but don't absorb it if they see the parents doing the opposite of what has been stated. This sends confusing messages to the children, and erodes parental credibility.
We can't teach the children not to swear, if we constantly swear in their presence. We can't teach them not to smoke, if we are going through a packet of cigarettes a day. We can't teach them not to drink alcohol if they constantly see us with a beer in our hand. Whatever we want them to be, we have to be.
The truth of the matter is that in many instances our children will do what we do, rather than what we say.
Dads' Call To Action:
Take a long hard look at yourself, and ask yourself if you would be happy for your kids to turn out the same. If you see areas in your life that you don't want in their lives, begin to face them and change them for your kids sake.
(Philippians 3 v 17)
Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.
(1 Timothy 4 v 12)
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.