I’m thankful for your concern for your sons; God gave them to you, and as we look toward Father’s Day tomorrow in our country, I pray you will make it your goal to become the best father you can possibly be. The Bible says, “Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3).

How can you be a good father to them? First, love them — and let them know you love them. That doesn’t mean you give them anything they want or let them do anything they want to do; love sometimes says “No”. But it does mean you’ll seek what is best for them, and will be willing to sacrifice your time and energy to make it happen. It means you’ll also keep them from anything that might harm them — not just physically, but morally and spiritually.

Then be an example to them — an example of honesty and integrity, as well as compassion and concern for others. Be an example to them also in your speech, and in your goals in life. The Bible says, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good” (Titus 2:7).

Most of all, be an example to them of what it means to follow Jesus Christ. Make sure of your own commitment to Christ, and then ask God to help you point your sons to Him. Young people today face enormous pressures, and more than ever they need fathers who won’t only help them resist them, but will help them become the men and women God wants them to be.