A pastor advises American fathers to reject three harmful beliefs that are prevalent in today's culture.
Pastor says society must reject 3 lies about dads' roles in children's well-being.
In preparation for Father's Day on June 16, a West Coast faith leader disclosed "three harmful myths" that American fathers are being exposed to, either explicitly or implicitly, in contemporary society. According to the leader, fathers must reject these falsehoods in order to provide their children with the best possible upbringing.
Pastor Jesse Bradley of Grace Community Church in Auburn, Washington stated that many dads possess qualities such as hardwork, fun, kindness, and intelligence.
The lies about fatherhood that are being spread today are deceitful and hard to spot. They are cunning, powerful, and easy to believe.
Bradley said that once unearthed, they can be discarded.
Replacing lies with truth is powerful," said he to Planet Chronicle Digital. With faith in God, "dads can be set free from the mental traps that all too easily can entangle people.
Before Father's Day arrives in a week, he revealed three lies that he thinks "should be erased from the minds of fathers" in order for them to be the best parents they can be for their children's well-being.
Lie No. 1: 'You can't be a good dad'
A "false message of defeat" can be debilitating for fathers, as Bradley stated.
Every failure and mistake is echoed with its weight, making it too heavy to bear.
"Your past experiences in life don't define you."
Those who had fathers who were absent, abusive, or aloof may still bear the emotional scars from those experiences and may unintentionally replicate them in their own lives, according to him.
Bradley, a husband and father of four, stated, "God is a healer and close to the brokenhearted. He is a Father to the fatherless. You have a heavenly Father who is always faithful and good — so receive His love that endures forever."
God will provide you with other men who can teach you and help fill the 'dad void' you may have experienced. Your past experiences do not define you.
"Let negative pieces inspire you to transform," he suggested.
"You have the potential to become the father you always wanted."
Lie No. 2: 'It's fine to be an independent dad'
Many men are enticed to be single, initially finding it appealing, according to Bradley.
"Relationships may be messy at times — but they're worth the investment."
In a chaotic culture, "independence seems to be less complicated and involves less drama. Seeking solace in the 'man cave' can provide some desired respite from the turmoil," he remarked.
The Christian pastor stated that the issue with this mindset is that "we are not designed for solitude. We require God and others to thrive."
He stated that the lie is that we are self-sufficient and can control our lives better if no one is near us or around us. We use entertainment, hobbies, work, and life as a refuge or escape.
In his opinion, it's common in a fast-paced and challenging culture to stray from God, lose touch with your spouse, become distant from your children, and lack close friends.
Being distant is not the legacy any dad wants, even though relationships can be messy, they're worth the investment.
He added, "Connecting with family bears much fruit."
Lie No. 3: ‘Being a father is not that important’
Bradley, speaking directly to dads, said, "While many others can do your job at work, replace you on your weekend men's league team or serve where you volunteer, you are the only person in the world who is the father of your children."
He emphasized that the role should be highly valued and given top priority.
Bradley advised, "Connect with your kids daily, listen to their fears, find meaningful activities, give wise advice, make memories together, read the Bible, open your heart, be at their games, go on trips, and try out your best dad jokes."
Being a dad involves being relational, intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
He urged other fathers, "Avoid putting your utmost effort into your work and only bring home the remaining output."
Being grateful and intentional as a dad leads to the profound joys of fatherhood, as he also said, 'God is with you every step.'
lifestyle
You might also like
- An ancient sword from the time of Moses, as mentioned in the Book of Exodus, was discovered in Egypt.
- RARE PHOTO: Zillion, the humpback whale, captures a seal.
- Nearly 200 invasive snakes are removed from Florida during the annual python challenge.
- A 1,000-year-old Viking treasure was discovered buried in dirt, making it a "one-of-a-kind discovery."
- REMOVED: Iguana found in Florida home's fireplace: 'End up anywhere'