Chapter 2 - Masculine Model of Leadership

More food for thought with me today. =) I'm really enjoying this book, can you tell? I'm quoting in on my blog for goodness sakes!


This chapter is based off of I Thessalonians 2:8-12 and it talks about the father's role in relationships with the kiddos.

There were 5 guidelines for the Daddys...

1.) A Fond Affection -
"It's easy to hug and kiss a baby, even a small child. But as that child grows up, physical affection is often replaced iwth physical aloofness-which can have some disastrous results."

2.) A Transparent Life -
"They [kids] need instruction about life, and they need a father who lets them watch him live it, mistakes and all. They need to see how you handle your finances, how you make decisions, what your values are, and what makes you laugh. They need to hear you admit when you're wrong and see you stand up for your faith. They need to know you inside out-and to feel your interest and belief in them."

3.) An Unselfish Diligence -
"They [kids] don't need material goods in place of your time. They don't need to see the fruit of their father's labor instead of their father. But they do need to see their dad do a day's work for a day's pay; and they do need opportunities to earn their own way."

4.) A Spiritual Authenticity -
"Too many fathers leave the spiritual aspect of child raising to Mom; if Christ is taught at all, it's usually by the mother. Dads need ot teach Christ too, and then live their lives in a way that backs it up."

5.) A Positive Influence -
This is a true statistic..."For every single positive statement made in the average home, there are TEN negative ones." !!!
"Children whose ears are full of hte words "No" and "Don't" and "Stop that!" learn not to trust their instincts, not to try. Children who hear "That's great!" and "You can do it!" as often as they hear "That's not a good idea" will face new challenges with self-confidence and explore their potential without fear."

Please keep my friends Adam and Lori in your prayers as they are in Russia right now adopting their little angel, Ellie (just turned two years old). Things are going better and I can't wait to see pictures of them walking out of that orphanage with her in their arms forever. God bless you guys if you're reading this!