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Most of us feel very secure and safe in our homes…at least from a
physical perspective. But how safe is your home for your wife and
children from the emotional and spiritual perspectives? At first
glance, this may sound like a rather bizarre question but let’s
explore it a little deeper.
As men, we’re often taught, from the
earliest ages, to deal with disappointments and setbacks by “shaking
it off” or “getting on with life.” What we actually do is put those
hurts and unhealed pains conveniently on the shelf of our hearts.
The “world” is quick to tell us that we don’t “measure up” from our
earliest days. We’re not athletic enough, not smart enough, not
handsome enough, not rich enough, or not outgoing enough. We often
feel that our efforts are never good enough. We’re quick to respond
with a “that’s life” attitude and then do our best to convince
ourselves and the rest of the world that we’re worthy.
Our children and wives are no less
susceptible to the putdowns and cruelty of the world. So I return to
the original question: how safe is your home? Our homes should be
the safest place on this side of heaven for every member of our
family. As the husband and father, you have the most influence in
creating that safety. Is your home a place of unconditional love,
approval and acceptance? Are your wife and children absolutely free
from any feelings of having to earn your love, respect or affection?
Can your family see the face of God in your daily interactions with
each of them? Do your eyes light up when your child enters the room?
Does your wife feel cherished and honored and appreciated? Is your
home a place of comfort and encouragement?
Your true measure as a man is how well you
create a nurturing, safe and loving environment for your wife and
children. Are you the man of your wife’s dreams? Will your daughter
settle for nothing less than a husband who measures up to the
standard set by her father? Will your son aspire to be the man he
sees in his father? These are the true measures of success – a
success only reached by submitting our lives daily to God’s wisdom
and guidance.
Again, I ask, “How safe is your home?”
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