Have you ever heard something that just lingered in your mind? Show tunes and commercials are terrible like that. I can still hear, “Liberty. Liberty!” from those silly emu commercials.

Words are sticky. Words either add to or take away from. With intentional words you may earn the Nobel Peace Prize or declare war on another nation. Dramatic examples, I know. Words have potential.

James told us that, “Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing.” (James 3:10)

Words, like humanity, are powerful and fragile. Faith was never supposed to be privatized like some faith based HIPAA clause hidden in the church bylaws. Faith that works is real, and faith that works reveals itself in life giving words.

Words reflect a person’s true character. They show the person for what a man really is: “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matt. 12:34)

At our house, we are music people. We are listening, humming or attempting to sing all the time. Songs get lodged in my mind. Quotes have this effect on me, as well. This is one of those quotes.

“Be famous in your home.” –Mark Batterson

Wow.

What does Batterson mean? As a dad, “being famous” means you have made a positive mark worth remembering. Notice he said “famous” and not infamous. Words can be tools for both.

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, NLT

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

Colossians 3:21, NLT

Borrowing from Paul. Infamous words tear down, destroy relationships, exploit weaknesses and hinder those sacred spaces around bedsides, trips to the store and kitchen tables. Famous words are tools in the mouth of a wise father that seeks to uplift, discipline and instruct his child in the way of Jesus.

What words do you use?

Here are seven tips for talks with kids and teenagers:

• Hug often. (You’re not a hugger. Change.)
• Say words like son and daughter. (This is a reminder of their identity and a way for them to understand that they are loved and accepted even though they are flawed.)
• Watch your words regarding your own mistakes and failures. (Such as. I am such an idiot. I never get this right.)
• Watch how you talk about their mistakes and failures. (Shame is a weapon from the Enemy)
• Be concrete. (Be clear, calm and concise when offering discipline and instruction.)
• Avoid interrogations. (It works in the movies but not in real life.)
• Hug often. (Yes this is a duplicate. You need reminded.)

Be a mentor.

Find a mentor.

Be a new man.

Contact our team today to find out how you can become a mentor, find a mentor and be a better man! And DO NOT miss the latest episode of The Men of Iron Podcast – “Dad, You’ve Got This” Feat. Dr. Mark Pitts & Becky Thompson