Do you know the cries of your sons heart? Do you know what your daughter needs from you?

Here’s things I know they need from you. I know they think these things. Although I’ve directed it at Dad’s – it is for everyone.  We must be those who change lives, present answers, and live in faith and victory in this changing world.

1.  Tell me you love me in words.

2.  Hug me.

3. Notice me (my inner character – not just outward achievements.)

4. Listen to me without judgment as I speak. Listen fully before speaking.

5. Talk to me with kindness and understanding, not just advice.

6. Ask my forgiveness.

7. Lead me spiritually in actions – not just words.

8.  Love Mom.  Respect her for being my mother.

9. Understand I don’t live in your generation, I like different things than you.

Here’s why doing those things is so critical.

Malachi 4:5-6 “Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the LORD. He will restore the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and smite the land with a curse.”

Luke 12:49-53 “I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindled!  But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished!  Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division;  for from now on five members in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three.  They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”  

The Word of God is true.  What God says WILL come to pass.  He has given us opportunity to change our lives.

Is it too late?  Never!

How do you break the cycle of poor fathering? 

1.  Go see the movie “Courageous”

2.  Submit your life to the only true and great Father for wisdom, guidance, forgiveness and peace.

3. Communicate your desire and changed attitudes to your children in ways they understand.

How do you honor a father who was a failure?

1. Forgive, forgive, forgive.

2. Understand all people go thru the same tests and trials – but if you judge him – you will both be judged and given the same opportunities to fail.

3.  Believe God can give you wisdom to honor someone who failed you. 

4. Understand trust = knowing all men fail you.  There is only one perfect Father – one everlasting Father.

5.  Begin now to break the cycle and speak honor and respect to the father who failed you.

HAPPY NEW YEAR – make 2012 an incredible year for your kids!  It’s up to you.
Be the parent, the in-law, the child God will use as a world changer!

Keep your loved ones CLOSE.