Fortunate Child: Having A Good Father

Studies have proven over and over again that a child with two supportive parents has a greater chance of success in life.

Recently the Daily Mail reported on a study from the Infant Mental Health Journal that said babies who spend quality time with their dads do better in intelligence tests. This is the case regardless of income and fathers that are calm have the “smartest children”.

So once again science has proven what we already know: good dads are good for kids.

On The Secure Dad I’ve written about how fortunate I am in having a good father. I know from experience from friends that not having a strong father figure can make life difficult. Just this morning I read about one such high school friend found by police lying on the road in front of his home with his children running around unattended in the yard. He was arrested and found to be in possession of meth. I pray that this is the low point in his young life that helps him recover to reach his full potential.

I do understand that that are plenty of adults who were raised by single mothers, foster parents and children’s homes that have gone on to lead amazing lives.

But there is no denying that families need fathers.

I grew up a fortunate child in America. My parents love each other and they love me. With a divorce rate climbing north of 50 per cent here, having two caring parents is almost like winning the life lottery. I’ve been truly blessed with having wonderful parents, and I’m thankful for it.

My dad’s father wasn’t always the model of fatherhood. He and my grandmother divorced when my dad was just 16. From there he was cared for by a tough and resourceful mother. More studies might lead you to believe that statistically my dad wouldn’t be a stand-out father because of divorce and trouble at home. But that’s not the case: my father was, and continues to be, a positive influence on my life.

So what made the difference in my dad’s life? Why did he seemly beat the odds to be a normal, productive husband and father? The answer is Jesus Christ. When my dad was young he, like my mom, accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Having a close, personal relationship with Jesus guided my father in how he approached everything in life, especially fatherhood.

Do you need to go to church or be a Christian to be considered a good father? It’s not a requirement, but from personal experience let me tell you it makes all the difference in the world.

When you can understand the love and grace God has for each of us, you gain an amazing appreciation and strength for fatherhood. While I’m not a perfect father or husband, my faith has guided me in times of stability and weakness. I can’t imagine being a dad without God’s love and guidance.

“The father of one who is right with God will have much joy. He who has a wise son will be glad in him.” Proverbs 23:24

Andy Murphy’s blog, The Secure Dad, is dedicated to family safety, home security and of course fatherhood. Visit weekly for tips on keeping yourself, and your family, safe.