When my son was born almost two weeks ago he didn't come with an instruction manual - foreseeing this, I took the precaution of asking a dozen Christian fathers whom I respect, their advice on daddyhood and the following were overwhelmingly the strongest responses I received.
Seven things to know about being a Dad to a son (according to amazing Dads I know) -
1. Protect your marriage: Love your wife and make her, not just your child your priority after Christ.
2. Unconditional love: Reassure your child of your unconditional love regularly and let him know you're proud of him.
3. Pray for them: Spend time alone and with your wife and other friends praying for your child.
4. Pray with them: Make time where possible to pray with each child individually or as a family.
5. Set a good example: Be the man you wish your child to be. Children will naturally love their mothers but copy their fathers.
6. Discipline: Set boundaries, ensure he knows what is and isn't acceptable.
7. Authenticity: Be real - don't pretend - apologise when you screw up.
I treasure the advice that these people shared with me - some of it surprised me and some didn't - but these are real men whom I have seen guiding and actively taking a part in their children's lives - and had the generosity and courage to share their views with me.
All of the above will soon turn into links where I share in greater depth what was shared with me but in the meantime I shall leave you with "I've been watching you" by Rodney Atkins which illustrates all seven of the above but especially setting an example and prayer: YouTube: I've been Watching You
