Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

I think this may be the only instance in the Bible the word “embitter” is used. It is a fascinating word, as it indicates that you have power over another’s areas of sin. Bitterness is usually something that we must guard against ourselves. But with children it is different.

God does hold parents responsible for being too harsh with their children. Here the father is mentioned. The indication is that fathers have a duty to love and be kind to their kids. We hear stories about kids whose hearts have been hardened in childhood, who then grow up to be criminals.

So we are to encourage our children; to amplify their strengths in front of others. This means helping to create opportunities for them to hone their skills and abilities and complimenting them in front of others.

Lord, help me to look at my kids as you do — full of potential and worth the investment. May I build them up and help them learn the important truths in the Bible!