“I love you son. I’m proud of you.”

Did you hear these words from your dad when you were growing up? If your dad is still alive, do you hear them from him now as an adult?

If you have a son, do you say these words to him? Very often?

Do you ever proclaim these words publicly about your son where both he and other men hear you?

“I love you son. I’m proud of you.”

In the New Testament of the Bible, there are only 3 recorded instances where God audibly spoke from heaven. Did you know that 2 of these 3 instances are God the Father communicating this very message to His Son Jesus?

At Jesus’ baptism, a voice from heaven spoke audibly to those who were present saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17, Mark 1:11, Luke 3:22)

At the mount of transfiguration, God again spoke, this time from a cloud, saying “This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased. Hear him.” (Matthew 17:5, Mark 9:7, Luke 9:35, 2 Peter 1:17-18)

These are incredibly powerful and affirming words that boys and men of all ages long to hear — need to hear — from their father. It was important for God the Father to communicate this on more than one occasion audibly to His Son Jesus and those who were present. It was important for Jesus to hear these words audibly from His Father.

Likewise, it is important that we fathers speak these words audibly to our sons.

“I love you son. I’m proud of you.”

When Dad Speaks
by Joey Watkins, Friday, September 12, 2008

One of the most powerful aspects of being a dad is the words you say to your children.

I’m not talking about casual words like… “go take the trash out” or “time for dinner” or “good night.”

I’m referring to the words of LIFE or DEATH you speak to them, like when you tell them you’re proud of them, or you love them, or they are a blessing to you.

Or when you speak negative words to them that are degrading, discouraging, humiliating, or
hurtful.

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Proverbs 18:21

The very words YOU speak can build up or tear down your son or daughter… at any age.

The words you speak can encourage your children… or destroy them.

The most powerful true story I’ve ever heard told about the “father power” of a dad’s words is by
singer/songwriter David Meece.

His story about his relationship with his father is incredibly impactful and full of many truths helpful to all of us who are dads.

You may even find parts of David’s story similar to your relationship with your own dad.

David has been gracious enough to make available a recording of his story at no charge. Download David’s story here and then take time to listen to it in the next couple days–

http://familydads.com/blog/david-meece-father-power-story/

Your thoughts? Encourage and challenge other dads with your input at the FamilyDads
blog.