Proverbs 15

What Makes a Glad Dad?

While having lunch with a friend a few days ago, it was refreshing to listen and observe him, as he talked about his son. The godly pride and joy expressed in the tone of his voice and his countenance were a blessing to behold. Whatever area of his son’s life we discussed, his role as a husband, father, service in ministry, or work, there was a glad dad talking about a godly, well-balanced, wise young man!

Proverbs 15:20 came to mind “A wise son brings joy to his father.”

Not only was it clear that my friend was a joyful father because he had a wise son, it was evident that this father played a big role in the development of his son.

As he shared about his son, his conversation was permeated with quotes from Scripture and Biblical principles. When he spoke of his son’s character, he talked about the fruit of the Spirit and instilling these Christ-like character qualities in his son. He spoke with admiration of his knowledge, godly wisdom, and relational skills, beyond his years, in dealing with their customers (father and son are in business together). He quoted several proverbs and biblical financial principles that he modeled and taught to his son.

It was not by chance that my friend was a joyful father. As he trained and taught his son, the Bible was, and is, central and foundational to him and now in his son’s life, as well.

A glad dad and a wise son both know that “the fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” Proverbs 15:33

-- Ken Smith