Father Should in Love Enforce the Sterner Virtues, June 28

Whom the Lord loveth He correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. Proverbs 3:12.RRe 181.1

The father should enforce in his family the sterner virtues,—energy, integrity, honesty, patience, courage, diligence, and practical usefulness. And what he requires of his children he himself should practice, illustrating these virtues in his own manly bearing.RRe 181.2

But, fathers, do not discourage your children. Combine affection with authority, kindness and sympathy with firm restraint. Give some of your leisure hours to your children; become acquainted with them; associate with them in their work and in their sports, and win their confidence. Cultivate friendship with them, especially with your sons. In this way you will be a strong influence for good.RRe 181.3

The father should do his part toward making home happy. Whatever his cares and business perplexities, they should not be permitted to overshadow his family; he should enter his home with smiles and pleasant words.—The Ministry of Healing, 391.RRe 181.4