DAD, DO YOU SEE WHAT’S IN ME?
Loading player...
What does it actually mean for a father to affirm potential? Why do a father’s words carry so much weight? What happens when a child mostly hears correction but rarely affirmation? Can fathers unintentionally try to make their children into copies of themselves? And how do we affirm potential without simply flattering our children?
The key distinction is important: affirmation isn’t telling your child they’re amazing at everything. It’s recognising what God has placed inside them and helping them see, develop and take responsibility for it.
For the biblical angle, Matthew 3:17 is powerful. Before Jesus had begun His public ministry, the Father said: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Identity and affirmation came before public achievement.
The key distinction is important: affirmation isn’t telling your child they’re amazing at everything. It’s recognising what God has placed inside them and helping them see, develop and take responsibility for it.
For the biblical angle, Matthew 3:17 is powerful. Before Jesus had begun His public ministry, the Father said: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Identity and affirmation came before public achievement.
