We all know about the rapid increase in crime, drug use, gangs, homicides, school failure and dropouts, depression, suicides, and poverty among teens. But what is not so well known is one major cause for such problems: fatherless homes.
What the Bible Says About the Fatherless
If we desire to be Christ-like, we will have the same concern for the fatherless that God has for them. He is a father and a helper (Ps. 10: 14) to them. He hear their cries (Exod.22: 23-24; Isa.10:1-3;Mal.3:5). God warns us not to defraud (Prov.23:10), afflict (Exod.22:22), or do violence (Jer.22:3) to them. In the New Testament we are instructted to visit the fatherless and widows to prove that our religion is genuine (James 1:27). We must be patient and gentle, not judgmental, always ready to teach and help them, especially concering spiritual matters (II Tim.2:24-26).
What We Should Know
Avoid being alone with the opposite sex, especially teens, for extended periods. Husband-and-wife teams are ideal to work with fatherless children.
Encourage the child to discuss with his mother any inappropriate or unusual behavior, situations, or remarks he tells you about.
What We Can Do
Helpers, including teachers, need to know how to build and maintain relationships with fatherless children and their mother:
- Fatherless children need stability in relationship, so think in terms of working with them over extended periods.
- Be as positive as possible and encourage with praise and "good words fitly spoken." ~ Use public prise and private reprimand. Let the mother do most of the correction.
- Look for opportunities to give spiritual help.
- Participate with them in social activities,
(Taken from newsletter BJUP by Walter G.Fremont, Ed.D.)
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