I saw a video that illustrates the important role fathers play in the lives of their daughters. It captured a dad in his living room watching a basketball game, jumping and yelling in support of his favorite team. Right by his side, his three-year-old daughter copied his behavior. She mimicked every jump, every hand clap, and every expression of excitement.
Then the mood changed. The dad started shouting at the television. He complained about a blown call. The young daughter followed right along, reenacting his movements and emotional outbursts.
Dad, your daughter is watching you.
Her beliefs about the world are developed in large part by observing your character. She’s watching the way you treat her mother. Your integrity – or lack of it – is impacting her ability to trust other people. For better or for worse, everything you do is shaping her image of herself, of God, and of the world around her.
You are your daughter’s doorway to God because you’re her first introduction to masculinity. Mom can’t introduce her to manhood. It’s up to you.
From the time she’s born, you set a template for what she should expect from men – how they listen, how they talk, how they expression affection, how trustworthy they are.
How can dads be present and connect with their children in a meaningful way?
We’re talking with Dr. Meg Meeker on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Helping Your Daughter Become a Confident Woman.” Tune in on your local radio station,online, oniTunes, via Podcast, or on our free phone app, or watch the full program on our YouTubechannel.
Dr. Meeker offers hope and encouragement to dads, and challenges them to be the godly influence in their daughters’ lives the Lord calls them to be.
We’re talking with Dr. Meeker about her book, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know.If you’d like a copy, allow me to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family”program.When you do, I’ll send you Dr. Meeker’s book as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. To make your pledge, or for more information, visit our websiteor call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
If a one-time donation is all you can afford right now, we’ll still a send you a copy. Visit our websitefor more information. Thank you for your support.
Dr. Meg Meeker is a pediatrician who’s been in practice for over 30 years. She’s a leading authority on teenagers and children’s health.
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