Key Bible Verse: Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. PROVERBS 22:6

Bonus Reading: Proverbs 22:13-26; Ephesians 6:4

When a child of a consistent father interacts with his dad, the child knows what to expect. There are few surprises and no scares.

A consistent father governs his moods. He is not affectionate one minute and angry the next, with no reason for the sudden mood swing. Inconsistent fathers are emotionally erratic. Years later, their children will stand up and confess, often through tears, "Whenever I approached my dad, I had no idea whether he was going to hug me or belt me."

A consistent father also governs his behavior. His children can count on his always being their father, always coming back home. Children of an inconsistent dad live with the threatening sense that their father's bags are packed and waiting by the door.

He also governs his behavior by practicing what he preaches. When he makes a promise, his children can count on his keeping it.

He also practices what he preaches by being consistent in his moral behavior. He avoids hypocrisy at all costs.

—Ken Canfield
executive directory, National Center for Fathering

Thought to Apply
Where a man belongs is up early and alone with God seeking vision and direction for his family.
—John Piper (pastor and author)

Men of Integrity Devotional Drawing on themes of the Promise Keepers movement, this daily devotional guide brings you compelling stories, timely quotes, practical help, and personal challenges together in an easy-to-read, easy to apply format.

Excerpted from the Men of Integrity Devotional, week 12, Thursday. Copyright © 2001 Christianity Today. Used by permission of Word Publishing Company, Nashville, TN. All rights reserved. For reprint information call 630-260-6200.