Noble Fatherhood

Ezra Taft Benson stated that fatherhood is an "eternal calling from which he is never released" (Hawkins 2012, p. 140). Adam, the first earthly father, was given an eternal calling to be a father. He was commanded with his wife Eve to "multiply and replenish" the Earth. The calling to be a father did not end once the children were born. Fathers have a calling to preside in the home, to partner with their spouse, to be present in the lives of their family members, to provide for the needs of the home, and to protect their families.

A father's presence can be felt in the home and research has even shown that effective fathering has its benefits. According to the book Successful Homes and Marriages "preschool children whose fathers are involved and interact positively with them display greater cognitive ability, more individual control, and more empathy than other children." The research goes on to state "both boys and girls who have positively involved fathers show higher social competence and experience fewer problems in school" (Hawkins 2012, p. 142). Fathers who preside over their homes create an environment where morals, values and gospel principles can be taught. When a fathers focus is on being the anchor in the home the efforts will be felt in how they bless and love their children and families.

Fathers also have a duty to partner with their spouse. In doing research upon the influence that a father and mother can have upon their children, I have found that there is nothing that can top this union and the effects that it can have. A mother has her strengths and duties, and when they are coupled with the strengths and duties of a father, the result is nearly magical! As fathers and mothers work together to raise their children, they create a well-balanced and secure home life which will produce children that thrive. Next, fathers must be present in the lives of their children. There are many distractions in life: phones, computers, TV, outside recreation, hobbies ect. These influences can draw our attentions away from our family and the things that matter the most. The only way to meet a child’s needs is to be readily available when they need you. One father recalled “For my 3 year old daughter, being present means reading books together and giving her a piggyback ride at bedtime. Being present with my teenage son is more likely to involve listening to his descriptions of scientific projects and providing positive affirmation when he has persona doubts. In either case, being present is a continuing commitment.” (Hawkins 2012, p. 144). Parental presence is more than providing the basic needs. While these are all important measures that a parent needs to meet, a child’s greatest need is a sense of security. As a mother and father provide the basic needs coupled with affection, love, teaching, and warmth, a child can feel secure.

 

Lastly, fathers are responsible to provide for the family, and to protect them. Not only does providing for a families monetary and temporal needs bless the family, but it also effects a father’s view of self. Providing is one way that a father can show his love for his family. Fathers must also protect their families from the outside forces of the world. “Perhaps the most important aspect of protecting children occurs as fathers model appropriate and righteous behavior in their own actions and choices” (2012, p. 147). Example can be a powerful tool. As we watch our own behaviors and model righteous behaviors our families will be blessed for our efforts. A positive example will equip children with strong life skills and will prepare them to handle difficult life challenges. The blessing of a father cannot be traded. Together with a wife, they have the ability to do much good in the life of a child.