Week 1-THUR

Day 4 – Leading by Example

Verse:

1 Corinthians 11:1 – "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ."

Lesson: “Do as I say, not as I do” has never worked for parenting. Kids don’t just listen, they watch. They study how you react when you’re frustrated, how you treat their mom, and how you handle responsibility when no one’s looking. Your daily habits, words, and attitude form the blueprint they’ll follow.

Leading by example means showing up consistently. It means admitting when you’re wrong, apologizing sincerely, and walking with humility. It’s about matching your words with your actions and modeling faith that’s real, not performative. Children notice the gaps between what we say and what we do. Your character becomes their blueprint for how they live.

Reflection: Ask yourself: “Am I living the life I want my children to emulate?” Most dads talk a good game but fall short in daily habits, patience, or integrity. Stop being a “good advice dad” and start being a “great example dad.” Your children are watching constantly, even when you think they aren’t.

Insight:  Jesus never led with empty words or distant commands, He led with example. He showed His disciples what love, humility, and strength truly looked like. He didn’t just talk about serving others; He knelt down and washed their feet. He didn’t just teach forgiveness; He forgave those who nailed Him to the cross. And He didn’t just preach sacrifice; He became the sacrifice.

That’s real leadership. Jesus didn’t need status, titles, or recognition.  His influence came through obedience, compassion, and consistency. As a father, you’re called to lead your home the same way. Your children will learn more from how you love, how you repent, and how you persevere than from any lecture you give.

If Jesus, the perfect leader, chose to guide through example, then the most powerful sermon you’ll ever preach will be the life you live in front of your family.

Family Mantra: “Children copy conduct, not conversation."

Prayer: Father, help me to live with integrity and consistency. Teach me to model Your love and wisdom in every action and decision. Give me courage to admit my mistakes, humility to seek Your guidance, and patience to lead my children by example each day. May my life reflect You so that my children learn to follow You faithfully. Amen.