Father's Day: the Vital Role of Men

With Father’s Day this weekend I have been pondering on the Biblical view of fatherhood, and what it means to be a father.


A father's role in the family is a pivotal one. He is called upon to be a leader and protector for the family, and to give an example of Christ's love by being loving towards the children's mother.  He is also to be strong in the faith, and to bring the children up knowing right from wrong.  Through his life and his faith he is to communicate about righteousness, holiness and the pursuit God.


The male influence in a child's life sets the parameters of behaviour for boys and expectations of behaviour for girls; so the importance of a Godly father or father figure (Stepfather, Grandfather, Uncle, Church Member, Friend) can not be underestimated in the life of a child.  It is men that set the path that the children will follow;  as they emulate not so much that which is said, but what done (living out what they see and experience).  Godly men will seek to live out a Christ-like attitude of love to friends, business partners, farm hands, mailman, bus drivers, doctors, cashiers, and astronauts without partiality;  therefore leading the children around them to see and do the same.


There is nothing easy about being a father:  Throughout scripture fathers are implored to bring their children up in the ways of the Lord, to discipline them and to encourage, comfort and instruct them. To be strong, courageous, compassionate and even-tempered as a reflection of the one perfect Father in Heaven.  
So to all Dads and Godly men we say:
Be a teacher (Proverbs 22:6)
Exemplify a good life (2Cor 3:2-3)
Provide for your family (1 Tim 5:8)
Use discipline wisely (Proverbs 13:24, Colossians 3:21)
Invest time with your kids (Deut 6:6-9)
Actively love your kids (1Corinthians 13:4-7)
Never give up on your kids  (Luke 15:20-24)


Be present with purpose, use words and actions to encourage and build up, be patient and gentle and kind.


Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”—Philippians 4:9
  
Grace & Peace
Jen