Memorable “Dad-isms”
A “Dad-ism” is one of those blunt, pithy statements your Dad said to you, not once, but a thousand times. “Dad-isms” usually come in the form of a word of wisdom or perhaps a correction or warning. I still remember several of my father’s well-worn “Dad-isms”, like “haste makes waste”, or, “the sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll get done.” One that used to make me groan was, “when I was a kid we knew the value of a dollar.” My Dad had a whole line of “Dad-isms” that began with, “when I was a kid”, or “when I was a young man”. Now, I have my own collection of “Dad-isms”, and I have even heard myself relaying some of my father’s words to my own children – scary, isn’t it?!
What follows is a selection from Proverbs 4. It is a collection of “Dad-isms” – a father teaching his son about life. The father,
When I was a boy in my father’s house, still tender, and an only child of my mother, he taught me and said, “Lay hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands and you will live. Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.”
Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction; do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life. Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.
The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble. My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.” (Proverbs 4:3-6,10-15,18-20)
May all fathers be godly fathers and may our “Dad-isms” come right from God’s Word! Happy Father’s Day!
Rich Howell
