Anxious Fathers

Newly pregnant women have their share of worries, but they aren’t alone. Dads struggle too.

To be sure, they are not enduring the same physical pain, but they are worried just the same.

Sure they are proud, but they also worry about the health of both Mom and baby. They wonder if they will be able to provide for their family. They wish they’d taken that babysitting course offered when they were kids.

Some fellows don’t know how to change diapers or mix formula. They don’t even know how to hold a little one. They might develop anxiety attacks. If this was a Mom, she’d gather all her friends together and they’d commiserate, but men seldom do that. It may be up to Mom to bring up the subject.

Anyway, the good part is that soon they will feel comfortable in their role as Dad…and if he never gets the hang of changing a diaper, it doesn’t matter. In a year or two baby won’t be using them.

The important thing to remember is that Dad has a very important role to play in baby’s life.

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16, MSG)

Prayer- God, we pray for all the fathers in the world; that they might shine your light everywhere they go, especially in their own homes. Amen.