So the LORD pities those who fear Him.
For He knows our frame;
He remembers that we are dust.
– Psalm 103:13-14
As a relatively novice dad, this passage has new light shining on it. In meditating on these words, undoubtedly a framework for parenting, but especially for fathering, emerges. Here is a picture of our Heavenly Father’s dealing with me. Do I reflect that picture to the boys? What kind of representation of their Heavenly Father are they developing from their earthly father? Surely such a passage is encouraging to any believer. What a wonderful comfort it is to have a Heavenly Father who so patiently, kindly and gently deals with me. But too, what a needed admonition to reflect on whether or not such an understanding of a child’s frame is remembered in the daily plodding of life; whether or not the boys will be spurred to greater love and affection for their Heavenly Father in seeing and experiencing the love from their earthly one. Mercifully, He knows my frame.