In 1973, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared timeless guidance for fathers. Every father stands to benefit by reading this advice which is centered on gospel truth. Here are the points of emphasis: 1. Your fatherhood is, in a sense, an apprenticeship to godhood. 2. Your earth life is a part of the plan of salvation that enables you to become like your Father in Heaven. 3. Jesus Christ is your example to show you the way to return to your Father in Heaven. 4. A righteous family is an eternal unit. 5. You are the presiding authority in the home. 6. The Church exists to assist you to return with your family to the presence of our Father in Heaven. 7. You and your wife are cocreators with God for the eternal welfare of His spirit children. 8. You teach most effectively by example. 9. The greatest work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own home. 10. You must seek the Spirit of the Lord in leading your family. 11. The mother sustains the father and is his helpmeet, his counselor. 12. You and your wife are one in purpose. 13. You have the responsibility for the physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being of your children. 14. You have the responsibility to lead your family by: - Governing, correcting, nurturing, and blessing them in meekness, tenderness, and love on the principles of righteousness (see D&C 121:34–45). - Creating an environment in the home conducive to order, prayer, worship, learning, fasting, happiness, and the Spirit of the Lord. - Teaching them the principles of faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, the gift of the Holy Ghost, enduring to the end, and praying vocally and in secret. - Loving God and keeping His commandments. Fatherhood is not easy. But the Lord aids those fathers who seek His help, transforming them into their best selves.
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