YOU BROKE HER LITTLE HEART!

On Father's Day this image is so powerful. I know as a father, my heart has been broken by the plight of my children many times, especially as they got older and the hurts were emotional. Even worse, at times my wife has had to point out to me that my harsh tone or words have broken my child (or grandchild's) heart. Nothing makes me more tender than to realize I have frightened one of our little ones or needlessly caused them distress.

A child brought up with respect for parents and others will "fear" parents in the sense that they have a healthy respect for their authority. They know that when they misbehave, righteous retribution is likely to follow. Whether that be a spanking administered in love or having privileges taken away, the recognition that the parent is right in doling it out is key.

Part of our responsibility as dads and grandads is to help kids understand this, modeling for them the kind of love the Father has toward us. Immediately before this verse, the psalm says,

"For as the heavens are high above the earth,
So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
As far as the east is from the west,
So far has He removed our transgression from us." (Psalm 103:11-12, NKJV)

Thank you, Father, for your mercy and loving kindness toward us.