The Power of Dad

There are three types of parenting:

1. Absent parenting: Many parents are so career-minded that their focus becomes how to provide for their kids financially, as opposed to giving them their best energy and time. Some parents aren't there at all, leaving a gaping and bloody hole in the hearts of their children for their entire lifetime.

2. Engaged parenting: This kind of parent attends their children's ball games, takes their sons on hunting or camping trips. This is a great leap from the Absent parent, which will leave them crippled for life, but something is missing in terms of launching that arrow at the right target.

3. Strategic parenting: This kind of parent is intentionally thinking through and acting on how to raise their sons into authentic manhood, and their daughters into feminine women. This kind of parenting gives direction and vision for the future. It's living beyond today and pointing the way throughout life.

Dad is destiny! His presence or lack of it has no rival in a child's life! An ancient Proverb says "the glory of sons is their fathers" (Proverbs 17:6, the Bible). All you dads out there have an enormous amount of power and influence over your sons and daughters. But let me speak to the needs of a son for a moment.

There are three things every son needs to hear from the mouth of his own dad...

1. "I Love You."
2. "I'm Proud of You."
3. "You're really good at __________."

Which of the three kinds of parents are you?