“To Be Considered…Warning: Do Not Exasperate 2”

Last time we examined what it looked like for fathers to exasperate their children. We saw that harsh words, teasing that goes too far, and “playing games” with our children’s minds can easily discourage and exasperate our children. Our God tells us, as fathers, not to do this in Ephesians 6:4.

Hopefully, we recognized ourselves if we are doing these things and are now ready to discover how to stop. Did you ask yourself any of the questions that were suggested? Such as: “Am I exasperating my child?”

“Why do I do this?” and “How can I stop?” If you did and are open, here are some suggestions for overcoming this harmful behavior.

First, realize that you are not alone. If you have Christ in you, you already have the power to change. If you don’t have Christ in you, then you need to repent of your sins and receive Him as your Savior and Lord. Then you will

have His power within you to change.

Second, don’t try to make this journey alone. It is hard to confide something like this to another guy, but it is much harder to fight this battle alone. Find a trusted, spiritually mature man to share your struggle with and let him help guide you. In the meantime, please consider some ideas that might help.

Number one, confess to God that you realize that you are harsh and exasperating to your child and that you want to change. Ask God to forgive you and help you know what to do. Number two, pray about it first, then have this conversation with your child: tell them you have realized you have been harsh and exasperating and that you want to change. Ask them to forgive you and pray for you for God to help you to change. Number three, it is very important that if you blow it and revert to old patterns that you confess it to God and your child and ask forgiveness immediately. Keep your accountability partner informed on how it’s going and have him pray.

More next time.