Father's Heart Blog

Continuing the Series on quality books I have read recently…….

This is an epic little book. One you can plough through in a day and take lots of benefit from, below are my take aways.

We all need the following principle as our foundation for parenting…”Don’t be too concerned that your children don’t listen to you. But be very concerned that they see everything you do.”

He talks from experience on Child discipline and dealing with difficult boys – as he has run children’s homes for many years! He says…”Children want limits, and they want to be able to respect the adults who set those limits.” Is that you? Are you that man? Are you predictable and consistent?

He goes on to say “A parent who tries to be a buddy will soon have a tyrant for a child….you must be firm, to begin with and then its easier to become softer – almost impossible to go the other way!” Remember, Father your calling is to be their Father their guide not another mate! They can and will have hundreds of mates and only forever on earth one Father! So be that man!

Further more Cathy says “A child should know or at least be able to predict the consequences of any action.
They should be able to teach and warn the younger siblings.” Are you that crystal clear?

Possibly my favourite statement from his book is “If you are generous with your time, the thing children need most, you will be blessed with their trust.” He says to “Participate with your children, play games. Seek opportunities to be with them on their turf!! Volunteer to coach their team, or teach their Sunday school.” – All great ideas! How much real time have you given your kids this week?

Such a powerfully true statement is “Don’t blame children for the things you have never taught them!
Children will learn many basic skills just by being around good adults” Let them be around you – module what you want them to learn! Let them be your apprentice!

“Don’t assume teens who lack common sense are stupid – mostly it means they are avoiding interaction with adults/their parents!” From my time leading Youth Ministry and from my own childhood I recognise this principle so much. Instead of judging them – be the one to lead them to a change!

The penultimate chapter is a wonderful one on teaching your children the value of purity, you would do well to buy the book for that alone. In the last chapter Cathy warns us that the consequence of arguing in the home that it can be more devastating than all other things.

If you recognise yourself in this weakness or are challenged by any of the things mentioned in this blog post then do the right thing. Repent and turn around, make the adjustment in your heart and mind and then follow it through with your wallet, commitments words and most pertinently your time!