A Father's Counsel

For all of the things that a father gives to his children, there is one thing that stands out as a particularly important gift: that of instruction. My father is a man who loves deeply, works tirelessly and leads the family as a servant. I love and respect these character traits. On this Father's Day, though, I am particularly mindful of and grateful for my father's wise instruction. There have been times when I have not seen my father's instruction for the gift that it is. But, in reflection, I have always seen that insomuch as I have actively listened and pursued my father's instruction, the fruit has been righteousness and peace. So today, in addition to the many ways that my father shows his love, I am particularly grateful for his counsel.

Fathers, on behalf of your children, do not abandon the call to instruct and to train your children even if it will not make you popular with them, even if it hurts. Daughters, allow your father to speak into your life and treasure his counsel like a prize. Remember that all discipline is painful for a time, but it later yields a harvest of righteousness and peace as we submit to its training (Hebrews 12:11).