A few months before my father died of cancer, he wrote me a letter in which he said: “I never think of you that I don’t offer up a short prayer for you and your success. I know you. I know what’s behind you. And I am pretty sure that I understand your goals, the kind of writing you hope to do, and the message you wish to convey. Stay in there and pitch, and may the Lord bless you. I am just so proud and thankful that the Lord let me be your father.”

That letter is one of my dad’s greatest gifts to me.

The New Testament contains two letters from Paul to Timothy, a young man he mentored and considered his “true son in the faith” (1 Tim. 1:2) and his “beloved son” (2 Tim. 1:2). The second letter begins with Paul’s deeply personal words assuring Timothy of his love and faithful prayers (vv.2-3). Paul affirmed Timothy’s spiritual heritage (v.5) and his God-given gifts and calling (vv.6-7). Then he encouraged him to live boldly for the gospel of Christ (v.8).

Dads, you can give great encouragement to your children by writing them a letter of love and affirmation. It may be the greatest gift you can give them. Why not sit down and write it from your heart today?  — David C. McCasland