Sometimes I wonder how my father would respond to things happening these days. Would he be angry or sad? What would he think of the world situation today? Of politics or race relations or anything else, from the Red Sox to the Russian investigation.

I don’t know, of course, but I do know my father was level headed and wise. He always did what he believed to be best: on behalf of himself, our family and me.

Sometimes those actions appeared painful, but I trusted my father to know best. He lived by the Scripture (Ephesians 6:4) that says, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”

That, then, is my word to fathers everywhere today: do not exasperate your children, but be wise. Lead, but do not herd your kids. Each is an individual, do not treat them as if they are clones of one another or of yourself. Encourage them to be their best at whatever they do, and encourage them to do it with zeal.

And teach them God’s way, because it is the best way. God’s wisdom is greater than that of any man, so seek it for yourself and for your family. And, if you need a little help with that, we are right here at First Baptist Church, every Sunday at 10 am. Join with us and we’ll help to show you the way.

May God bless you as you seek to be like Him and as you seek to train your children to be like Him as well. Pastor Jim.