“Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded.” Psalm 22:4–5
Your children will base many of their life views on your life.
Today we celebrate Father’s Day. It’s a day when most dads receive a tie, lawnmower, or some other fatherly-gadget. But more than thinking about what you’ll receive today; Dad, I want you to think about what you’re going to give today. I’m not saying you should buy presents for your family today, but think about what you give them every day.
The father is the head of the household, the leader, the guide—both physically and spiritually. Your leadership does not stop at the office. Your family is your greatest leadership opportunity. And you will lead them, whether you intend to or not. So take some time with me now to consider the gifts a godly father can give his children.
First, a godly father gives his children a godly home. The home is one of the most sacred and influential institutions God gave us. What goes on in the home affects nearly every other aspect of your children’s lives—it determines their attitudes toward life, their behaviors at school, and their life goals/desires. Godly fathers set the tone in the home and give their children a loving environment in which to live.
Second, godly fathers give their children a role model. Role models of today can be anyone from a sports star, singer, or actor, to a teacher, coach, or parent. God desires that you would model Christianity to your children. They will not learn Christianity from the greatest sports star on earth, but they should learn it from you. Be consistent in your walk. Make sure that what you are teaching them through your words, you are also teaching them through your actions. (Because we are human beings, there will be times you make mistakes, but allow your children to see repentance, forgiveness, and restoration through your life.)
Last, a godly father gives his children a future. Godly fathers take time to be with their children, teach them godly principles, and set their sights on Christ. It is that early training and molding that heavily influences whether children will pursue Christ’s will for their lives or pursue their own will. When godly fathers lead biblically, their children follow.
So although you may have gotten a great present today for Father’s Day, consider what you are giving back to your children. Are you leading your children scripturally? Have you given them a godly home, a role model, and a future based on God’s will? Commit today to leading your family in the ways of Christ and giving your children the most godly father they could possibly have.