“He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers.”
Malachi 4:6
Bill Haughton, who was president of a large construction firm, had hired and managed thousands of employees. He was asked, “When you are thinking of hiring an employee—especially a man—what do you look for?” His answer may surprise you. He said, “I look primarily at the relationship between the man and his father. If he felt loved by his dad and respected his authority, he’s likely to be a good employee.”
Haughton may have been familiar with the biblical story of Eli. A priest of Israel, Eli had two sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Eli apparently failed to discipline his children when they were young; the two sons did not respect their father. They rebelled against him and against the Word of God, appropriating the people’s animal sacrifices for their own meals and threatening anyone who resisted them (1 Samuel 2:12–17). When Eli heard about what his sons were doing, he spoke to them, but they ignored his warnings (vv. 23–25). Their actions offended God, eventually bringing judgment (3:11–13) and death (4:17).
If you’re a dad, never underestimate the incredible influence you have on your children. It can make the difference between disaster and lives that are successful and pleasing to Him.
Questions for Today . . .
How did your dad influence the person you’ve become?
What kind of impact do you think you’re having on your kids?
Are you striving to be the kind of father that God desires?
Prayer . . .
Almighty God, thank You for the privilege of fatherhood. I want so much to lead my children onto the right paths for their lives. Despite my sometimes inadequate efforts, help my kids experience the holy plans You’ve set before them. Amen.
Excerpted from Dr. James and Shirley Dobson’s book, Night Light for Parents.
