In the eyes of a little child, a daddy is a hero who can solve any problem. Children often compare their fathers with their friends’ fathers, and children delight to boast about how strong, fast, or smart their dads are. A dad means the world to his little child. To win dad’s smile of approval is greater than a gold medal to his child. To be loved by a father is the greatest joy in the world. To be with him and please him is a child’s deep desire.

To the many fathers who are raising their children in the ways of the Lord, thank you! Thank you for the myriad things you give up—your hobbies, your time, your desires—to spend time with your children. Thank you for spending time in the Word so you can lead your families in the ways of the Lord. Thank you for praying for and teaching the children God has entrusted to you.

As you tread this difficult, yet rewarding, path, don’t let discouragement overtake you! Heed the instructions of Paul to “not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9). “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (I Corinthians 15:58).

Happy Fathers’ Day!