GODLY FATHERS

As a father has compassion on his children, so Yahweh has compassion on those who fear Him. For He Himself knows our form; He remembers that we are but dust.  Psalm 103:13-14

Those who have experienced the love, grace and mercy of Jehovah God have a wonderful example to imitate and follow as earthly fathers.  In fact, Ephesians 4:32-5:1 urges all believers to imitate God by showing kindness, tenderheartedness and forgiveness to others.  Just how can we as fathers imitate God the Father?

All children need fathers who PROVIDE for them physically, emotionally and spiritually (Philippians 4:19).  Besides providing for them physically and materially as God does for us, children also need spiritual and emotional encouragement (Ephesians 6:4). Finally children need to be provided with security, a sense of belonging, affirmation, appreciation, unconditional love, confidence, correction, discipline, guidance, presence, time and understanding.  While our heavenly Father provides us with all of these necessities, you, Dad are still the man to provide these to your kids whether you received them as a child or not!

Children need fathers who HEAL.  We can really get beat up in this world with all its bitterness, anger, shame, ridicule, hurts, discouragements, disappointments, failures and sufferings.  We dads need to be a healing balm for our kids’ souls (Psalm 103:13-14). Finally children need fathers they can RALLY to.  A banner or flag is a rallying point or standard held in front of an army to provide confidence and assurance.  Too many of us run from God rather than rallying to Him for the confidence and help we need.  Are you the rally point for your children?

We all can be “heavenly” earthly fathers to our children by personally knowing (John 1:12-13; John 17:3), obeying (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) and modeling (1 Peter 1:15-16) our Father in heaven.   Ask God for the help and guidance you need to be that today. 

Bob Kulp