The Bible is the greatest instructional guide for fathers. It clearly outlines why dads matter and how a father is to treat, instruct, guide, nurture and provide for his children. Throughout the Bible, you will find verse after verse that will equip fathers to become the father that God intended them to be.
Let’s take a look at some of the most important attributes that a Godly father must possess.
Compassion
Compassion means showing concern for others, understanding their pain, “and the desire to somehow mitigate that pain.”
Why do you think a father should be able to show compassion? Share a time in which you showed compassion. Talk with your
children about showing compassion and decide how best you and your children can show compassion this week to someone
in need.
“As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;”
(Psalm 103:13)
Discipline
Discipline is hard, and yet it is absolutely necessary for a child to grow and mature into a responsible adult. As adults, we
find that sometimes God will discipline us. Share with your child how you have seen God at work disciplining your life. There
are times in which we stray from being present with God. When that happens, He will guide us back to Him. In the same way,
a father must gently guide his child through correction and discipline. Discipline can be done in a quiet, respectful way. Be
sure to make eye contact with your child and let them know that their behavior/action is unacceptable but you still love them.
Love is the key to successful discipline. Dads matter when it comes to discipline.
“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke because the Lord disciplines those he loves…”
(Proverbs 3: 11-12)
Listening
It’s been said that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a good reason. We need to listen twice as much as we talk. This
verse highlights that a father’s instructions are worth paying attention to and understanding. When you give your child an
instruction, ask your child to repeat what you just said to be sure they understand.
“Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.”
(Proverbs 4:1)
Nurture
The word “exasperate” means to irritate or frustrate intensely. This verse clearly says that Fathers do not anger or annoy
your children, instead train them in the way of the Lord, showing kindness, gentleness, self-control, patience. Not always
easy after a long day, but keeping your temper at bay, will show that you are trying to represent Godly instruction in true
righteousness and holiness. The next time you find yourself about to lose your patience, take a moment to pray for patience
and remember that your son or daughter is a “Child of God” and you are given the amazing responsibility to train them in the
ways of the Lord.
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
(Ephesians 6:4)
Provide
The goal of every father is to provide for his family, therefore if a child asks for food, you wouldn’t give him something
harmful, instead, you would provide something that would provide nourishment. Providing for a child can come in a variety
of ways. Providing for the health and well-being of a child is the primary way in which a father can show his love and support
to his child. Providing doesn’t always mean financially but can also mean mentally and spiritually. List a few ways you are
providing for your child that doesn’t cost anything. Some examples might be, spending time together, talking, walking, riding
bikes, teaching a new skill. These are all valuable ways that show you are a provider.
Fathers are “indispensable” in the lives of their children. A father’s love, support, encouragement, and quiet strength are so
important to the natural growth and spiritual development of any child. Never doubt that a father’s guiding hand and Godly
instructions can have a lasting impact upon their child. May God bless you each day because DADS MATTER in the life of their
child(ren).
“Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?”
(Luke 11:11)
For an additional resource, click here for 10 Things Scripture Says about Being a Father from “All Pro Dads.”
Take a look at the next video in the “Fathering in the Pandemic Series.”