Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father,
And give attention that you may gain understanding.
—Proverbs 4:1
Dad, is it possible you’ve gotten overly committed, so involved in your work or some away-from-home project or hobby that it is draining your time and energy with your family? I understand, believe me, I do. . . .
Instead of challenging fathers to give of themselves, our cultural system encourages them to give the stuff their increased salaries can buy—a better education, a membership at the club, material possessions, nicer homes, extra cars. . . . But what about dad himself? And that priceless apprenticeship learned in his presence? . . . It’s gotten lost in the shuffle. . . .
C’mon, dads, let’s lead a revolt! . . . Let’s refuse to take our cues from the system any longer. Let’s start saying no to more and more of the things that pull us farther and farther away from the ones who need us the most. Let’s remember that the greatest earthly gifts we can provide are our presence and influence while we live and a magnificent memory of our lives once we’re gone.
Taken from Charles R. Swindoll, Wisdom for the Way: Wise Words for Busy People (Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman, 2001), 191.
