There are times when saying no is necessary. A man needs to know those times.
As a father, there are times when saying no to things for a season doesn’t necessarily mean saying no to those things forever. It’s more of a ‘maybe just not right now’ mentality. A man needs to know how to discern those seasons for the sake of his family. Too many men have focused on things of lesser importance during the small window of opportunity called childhood only to realize it once their children were grown.
But there are some areas of life that are far too important for a man to say no to, especially when they’re a dad. Here are 5 important areas where dads just can’t afford to say no:
1) Your Family
Apart from your relationship with God, while your children are still at home, your family is to be your #1 God-given focus. More than your job, your ministry, or your hobbies. There are no second chances given on raising your family.
2) Your Health
Staying healthy for the long haul is more important than most men realize. Unfortunately, many dads try to simply play catch up and make all kinds of changes once things start to go wrong with their health. Men should know that it’s a whole lot easier and less costly to maintain a car than it is to repair one. This principle is also true of our bodies.
3) Your Calling
While your #1 calling right now is being a dad, what else it is that God has given you a passion or gifting for in life? Yes, you may have limits while your children are still at home, but putting reasonable limits in place doesn’t mean you have to completely put your calling on hold. Having a family and pursuing your calling can happen side by side with proper balance. Your life is too short to miss your calling.
4) Your Time Off
Dads, your kids look forward to your time off, so take it! Do your best to come home from work on time in the evenings. Spend quality time with you kids on your day off. Use that vacation time to get away with your family. Don’t pass up opportunities like holidays or PTO to make lifelong memories. Prioritize quality and quantity time with those you love.
5) Your Relationship with God
You are their earthly father. God is their Heavenly Father. You are the greatest reflection of Him in their life.
“Children who fail to see God’s love through their father often fail to see a loving father through God.”
Your family needs to see your walk with God shining through your daily life, decisions, and reactions. Nothing is more important that this.
“There are two lasting gifts a father can give a child. The first is roots. The second is wings.”
