God's Fathers - Questions for FathersSample

How do you speak in front of your children?

Are you swearing? Let no unwholesome (foul) talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen (Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 3:8).

Does your child respect you when they see how you deal with their Mom and talk to her (Ephesians 5:25; 1 Peter 3:7)?

How often does your child hear the words: I love you.

Are you making dirty jokes? Do you think they'll respect you for that? Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6a).

Do you talk about other people, gossip or belittle them? What message is this sending to your child? (1 Peter 2:1).

Do you answer your children when they ask you a question? Are you annoyed? Do you make an effort to give a good answer?

Are you being sarcastic with your children? Do you give them credit for their achievements – even though they may have come 5th in the 100m race? Or last?

Do you yell at your children? Are there tantrums?

What do you think your child feels when they see you for the first time after you have been away for a while? What emotions do they feel when your car stops in front of the house, and they hear your voice?

Do you drink until you're drunk? How much respect can a child have for a drunk father? Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).

What do you look at on the Internet? Would you like your child to watch those videos and to see those photos?

Do you ask your children about their aspirations and encourage them to dream? Or do you laugh at them when they say they want to play rugby for the Springboks or become a writer, actor, or detective one day?

What do you expect from your children? Are your desires for them the basis for your thoughts about them? Are the things that you want for your children going to benefit them in the end, or will those accomplishments just make you look better?

Do you make time for your children? Do you ask them if they have time to come and do something with you - not as a “labourer”, but because you would like to do it with them?

Are you constantly "away"—spending time with your friends, attending important meetings, or going on overseas trips—with little regard for your child’s needs?