Listen up, men. We're gonna talk about something that'll make or break your kids' future. No, it ain't money. It ain't sports. It's your dang words.
You see, most "dads" out there are dropping the ball. They're too busy chasing paper or watching the game to realize they're losing the most important battle of all - the hearts of their children.
But you? You're different. You're here, reading this, because you give a damn. So let's dive in.
Here are 12 phrases that'll shape your kids into warriors for Christ:
1. "I'm proud of you"
Not just when they bring home that A+ or score the winning touchdown. I'm talking about when they face that bully at school or push through a tough homework assignment. Show 'em you value grit over gold stars.
2. "My favorite thing is spending time with you"
And for the love of all that's holy, back it up with action. Put down that phone. Turn off the TV. Be present. Your kid needs your eyes, ears, and heart - not just your wallet.
3. "Thank you for telling me that"
When your kid opens up, it's a gift straight from God. Treasure it. Encourage it. Ask for more. You're laying the foundation for a lifetime of trust.
4. "Your passion for [X] really shines through"
Whether it's building Lego castles or coding websites, fan those flames. Your words are the kindling that'll turn their spark into a bonfire.
5. "We're so glad you were born"
Don't wait for their birthday. Make this a regular part of your vocabulary. Let them know their existence is a blessing, not a burden.
6. "You look handsome/beautiful in that"
Confidence starts at home, gentlemen. Build it early and often.
7. "Thank you for being YOU"
In a world that wants to put everyone in a box, teach your kids to embrace their God-given uniqueness.
8. "I'm so glad you asked"
Curiosity is the engine of growth. Never, and I mean NEVER, shut it down. Answer those questions. Feed that hunger for knowledge.
9. "We will always love you, no matter what"
This ain't conditional, boys. It's forever. Through the triumphs and the screw-ups. Make sure they know it.
10. "We count our blessings every day for you"
Gratitude ain't just for Thanksgiving. Speak it daily. Let it saturate your home.
11. "You can do it"
Push 'em. Challenge 'em. Let 'em climb that tree or jump in the deep end. Your belief in them will become their belief in themselves.
12. "I'm sorry"
Yeah, you heard me right. You're gonna mess up. Own it. Apologize. Show 'em what real strength looks like.
Now, I can already hear some of you whining. "But I don't have time for all this touchy-feely stuff!"
Cut the crap.
You've got time for politics and binge-watching Netflix. You've got time for this.
These words? They're not just niceties. They're weapons in the spiritual war for your child's future. Use 'em wisely and often.
Remember, men: your kids are always listening. Even when you think they're not. What are they hearing from you?
Are you speaking life or death into their souls?
Are you raising warriors for Christ or casualties of this fallen world?
The choice is yours. The time is now.
So man up, open your mouth, and start speaking truth and love into your children's lives. Your legacy - and their future - depends on it.
Now get to it, soldier. You've got a family to build up and a Kingdom to advance.
Full of wisdom and revelation. Lovely.
When my kids were younger and I traveled a lot I would always leave them with a note of humor and love and would finish each note with these instructions. 1) Love God and every other single human being 2) Obey your Mom 3) Think Positive and 4) Be Careful.