Often men think that they're on their own when it comes to running their household, but God's promise is that He gives not just authority but even ability through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit for fathers and husbands to become heroes at home.
I used to think that my profession and my professional goals were the highest call God had over my life. That was until I became a husband to my wife, Ces, and a father to my daughter, Alexa. When that happened, I realised that my greatest call was actually at home before the mission field.
Psalm 103:13 says, "Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him."
Fathers and husbands play a crucial part in that they are to be the embodiment of the compassion of our Heavenly Father for us. Sadly, some fathers and husbands do not fulfil that role, and that includes Christians ones.
In order to restore societies and communities, men must rise up to restore their homes. Here are four of the many things that they can do more in their household to watch their families grow in the Lord.
Lead them spiritually
In Deuteronomy 11:19, God commanded the Israelites to teach their children and households the laws of God. Just as Jesus spiritually heads the church, the man is to spiritually lead his wife and children to God. God commands that men lead in the area of devotion to God and spiritual discipline, not being a spiritual auditor but mainly an example for children and wives to imitate.
Have fun with them
If malls and play houses are supposed to be fun, the household should be more fun! A home full of life is a home that honours God. God meant for families to be enjoyable and memorable, and when we provide that for our homes, us men fulfil a mandate that God meant for us - building relationships that are filled with joy and happiness.
Be transparent about weaknesses and struggles
There is a stigma placed on men that we have to have a macho physique and show no signs of weaknesses. But the more we become chocolate-coated fathers and husbands, the less we make of our integrity. Integrity calls that we be the same at home and the same in the work place. Although, this is not an excuse to rant and grumble, it is an opportunity for the family to come together and play a part in supporting the vision and countenance of the home.
Sacrifice for them
Ephesians 5:25 tells us, "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." Just as Jesus sacrificed His life for us, men are called to give and give and give to their family, knowing that we will never run dry because it is Jesus who sustains us by the power of the Holy Spirit to be a blessing to our families.
