The Fatherhood Manuel

My daddy and me, 1977

"Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord." (Ephesians 6:4)

John Watson fathered John Watson in 1753

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John Watson fathered Calvin Watson in 1801

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Calvin Watson fathered William Alvin P. Watson in 1831

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William A. P. Watson fathered William Clayton Watson in 1861

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William C. Watson fathered William Winfred Watson, in 1895

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William W. Watson, Sr. fathered William W. Watson, Jr. in 1921

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William Winfred Watson, Jr. fathered Tamara Jill Watson in 1956

Down through the ages, new moms and dads have bemoaned the fact that their babies did not come with an instruction manual. I beg to differ. God's "Everything You Need to Know about Parenting A to Z" has been around for centuries. It's called The Bible.

"My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don't neglect your mother's instruction. What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck (Prov. 1:8-9). Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take" (Prov. 3:5-6).

"Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses... Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying Him, and committing yourself firmly to Him. This is the key to life. And if you love and obey the Lord, you will live long...." (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

"Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Beloved, are your kids driving your crazy? Are you at your wit's end? Read the Bible. It's good for the soul - yours and theirs!