Pastor Shirl Speaks  

A father's words are so important in determing how his children will turn out.  His words can either raise loving children or angry children.  Proverbs 13:24 says, "He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly".  Fathers should tell their children they have value and worth, show and tell them that they are loved.  Children also need structure, say what you mean and mean what you say.  Don't give in when you are pressured by your children.  Stand your ground.  Father's show your sons how to treat a lady by holding open a door for her, open the car door, pull out her chair and seat her at the table. Teach them how not to have sex before marriage, even if a young lady or man is willing to they don't have to.  Show your sons and daughters how to be leaders and not followers.  Help them with their homework.  Show your daughters how they should be treated by a man, take them out on a date, open the car door for her and any other doors you go through, pull out her chair , take her for a walk and walk on the street side.  If you show her these things at a young age, when she is a teenager, if the young man doesn't do these things for her, she will not have anything to do with him.  Never forget to let your children know that you love them and that the Lord loves them also.  A father's love is so essential to a daughter and son  for without it they may go looking for love in all the wrong places and end up being teenage parents.  Begin early showing your children, love and affection.  Let your son know it is alright to show emotions.  It takes a bigger man to cry and share his feelings than it does to put on a macho front, which hides fear and doubt.