As competent homeschool moms, we can act like we don’t need a leader. We have the best ideas and know how to make them happen. That thinking goes back to Eve. We have forgotten that loving, mutual submission supports the family best. We know about the great love relationship and perfect communion the Father had with His Son. He desires the same unity, submission, communion, and fellowship for us in all our relationships.
But as women, we tend to say, “We got this!” except when we don’t. Anytime we think we can be the lone ranger, we find that something is missing. When we try to rule over the one who’s been placed by God to lead us, we will find ourselves flailing around wondering why we are always overwhelmed and frustrated by our own efforts. Instead of trying to be in control and bear the weight of it all, we should be willing to do what it takes to fight for unity. I often have to fall on my face before God and ask Him to forgive my controlling spirit and yield myself to His leadership again.
God has given fathers the ability to see the big picture, so they can relieve our stress in discipline, curriculum choices, and character development. They have a more objective view and have been given wisdom from God to rule our homes. They are stress relievers. Not only are they commanded to love their wives and children in real ways, but dads also have the extra tasks of provision and protection. It’s a hard, exhausting calling and we need to remember to be grateful and honoring. We teach our children to honor their fathers by being the example of honoring them ourselves. I fail here so often, which is why I need new mercy every morning.
My husband would be the first to say he’s nowhere close to perfect, but He serves a perfect God who instructs him in life, godliness, and leadership. What I love most is my children are watching a man who loves his God fervently. If they can take that same spirit with them, they will have gained the world.
Note from the Editor: Dads, let’s be sure we are worthy each day of this level of trust and honor from our wives and children. May God help us in this holy endeavor of manhood.
Deborah Wuehler is the Senior Editor of The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine. She is wife to Richard and has been homeschooling their eight children for over 25 years. They have graduated six children so far and have one middle school and one high school student to go. Deborah is an author, speaker, and devotional leader. Her most popular workshop is Homeschooling the Rebel. Deborah’s passion is to encourage homeschool families to keep their focus on Christ and His Word, and to let them know they are making the best educational choice possible when they choose to keep their children Home Where They Belong.
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