The 5 Greatest Things I've Heard My Dad Say

Someone recently asked me, “What is the most important thing your dad has said to you?” As I thought about the answer to that question I recalled five things my father said to me at different times while I was growing up. I did not realize the value of his words when he said them, but I now realize these simple phrases (and the heart that was behind them) have become the greatest things he has ever said to me. Here they are…

No matter what you do, I’ll always love you.

I’m proud of you.

You weren’t trying very hard.

No.

I’m sorry. 

With each phrase I can recall a context in which I heard his words, but I also remember my varied responses (rolling my eyes with a smirk, smiling, pouting, stomping off, arguing back, jaw-dropping amazement).  It’s funny…I didn’t realize as a child/teen in the home what I have come to appreciate now as a dad: Dads aren’t perfect. But, when they love unconditionally they have the power to plant strength, confidence and belonging into the heart of their children. 

My dad is a follower of Jesus Christ. Now…I’m not saying a person has to be a follower of Jesus to be a good dad, but I do believe when one follows Christ the potential for being a good dad is multiplied. The Bible reveals that dads who are receptive to following Jesus will receive a heart that is supernaturally bent towards the well-being of their children (Luke 1:17). Most dads have intentions to be the ideal dad, but when a dad follows Christ his heart receives supernatural power to be a good dad. 

This is what I now know: My dad consistently said the words above not out of good intentions. He said them because he had supernatural help—help that not only gave him the right words but also gave him the dad- skills needed to back the words up with actions. 

The supernatural help mentioned in the Bible is still available. What have you got to lose and what do your kids have to gain?