To all of the fathers who serve their families with selfless love, our most sincere and appreciative thanks. God has given fathers a beautiful and immensely significant role in their children’s lives – one of which is meant to image His own love for those in Christ.

I am so grateful to have been raised by two wonderful parents. My father has faithfully protected and provided for my mother, brother, sister, and I for over thirty years. He has a servant’s heart, and continually puts our family before himself. As I have matured in the Lord, I’ve come to understand more and more how wise my Dad is and why he sometimes told us “no” when we desperately wanted his consent. He was looking out for us, like our Heavenly Father has designed him to do. God was painting a picture through my Dad –giving us a glimpse of what God’s love looks like for His children, those who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ.

The influential role of a father can leave a lasting imprint on his children. Mark Driscoll recently tweeted –“Dads: If you don't read the Bible or pray, your kids will grow up thinking that a real man doesn't read the Bible or pray.” Many grew up with fathers who didn’t know what our loving God is like, let alone how to portray His attributes to their children. To those who may have been hurt by earthly fathers – know that God offers Himself to you as your perfect, Heavenly Father (see 2 Corinthians 6:18). Galatians 4:4-7 says:

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’ So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.”

Through His atoning death and resurrection, Jesus paved the way so that those who trust in Him can call God ‘Abba’ – English translation: Daddy. God loves us perfectly like no one else can, even the most excellent of fathers.

Scripture for Fathers:

Have Compassion:

Psalm 103:13 - As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear Him.

Give Exhortation:

1Thessalonians 2:11-12 - For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.