The Mentoring Manifesto, Vol. 52: The Important Work of Fatherhood
Leading mentoring groups and engaging with others who mentor gives me the chance to hear many people’s stories. A few common threads emerge, but one of the most consistent is the presence of a father wound.
Most of us have been wounded in one way or another. It’s even true for those with “perfect” dads, whose wound can be an overwhelming desire to measure up. Whatever the source, abuse, neglect, or just plain busyness, father wounds are real, as are their effects: depression, suicide, divorce, dropout, etc.
But here’s the deal, we have the power to stop the transfer of that wound to the next generation. Even if your kids are gone, when you mentor those coming up behind you, you have the influence to empower them to stop it.
The work of fatherhood is too important to ignore, to outsource to Mom, or Coach, or even a youth pastor. Hearing all these stories reminds me of what a privilege it is to be a dad and the influence my words and actions have on how my sons view themselves and how they view their Heavenly Father.
Our sons and daughters need us now more than ever. They all deeply want to know their fathers and want to be known by them. If you have kids at home or mentor those who do, don’t miss this opportunity to influence and shape who they are becoming. The resources below will help you and your mentees speak into your kids’ lives.
DEFINING NORMAL
As husbands, fathers, and leaders, too often, “normal” defines us more than we’re defining it. In this blog post, RM founder Regi Campbell encourages us to sit down with our wives and define normal for our families. And then talk to our kids about what we want for them and what they want for themselves.
THREE HUGE MISTAKES WE MAKE LEADING KIDS…AND HOW TO CORRECT THEM
Breathe New Life Into Your Discipleship
Small group mentoring can help you engage your people, build your core group of leaders, and transform your church. Our free resources equip you with all the tools you need to launch a sustainable mentoring program.