It is hard to estimate the need a human being has for a father. Possibly, this need comes from an inherent need for God, but it is more than that. From a human perspective, a healthy relationship with one’s father is of utmost importance. Yet, in our present society, more and more children are subjected to the tragedy of growing up without a father.
One of the most heartwarming cries of a young man resonates from the lips of the Prodigal Son, who, when he had turned from his father and completely destroyed his life, cried out, “I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants’” (Luke 15:18-19). He was in desperate need of his father!
Many such young (and older) men spend their lives striving for the approval of their father. Either their biological fathers have neglected them in enjoying their own pursuits, or overachieving fathers have set a standard so high for their sons which they could never attain. Many of the rebellious acts of young men and women were desperate cries for the attention of their father. Others were scarred for life because they never heard a word of approval or affection from their fathers. What a tragic failure of fathers to recognize and supply the need of their children!
Through every phase of life, a father is of inestimable value. For a small child, Daddy is a hero! For a teen, Dad offers stability as often hormones rage, and the young person seeks to find his or her place in life. And yes, the enemy of our soul, Satan, tries his best to turn teens against their father … and their heavenly Father! Even for adults, Dad is a source of encouragement and stability in the turmoil of constant change.
Fathers, let’s ask God to help us see the critical need of being a good father in the lives of our children. We want to bless them with the blessing of the Lord. We want to model the heart of our heavenly Father, God, to our children. We need to show our children love, affection, approval, and pleasure. Let’s stand behind them with support, where needed with loving correction, and integrity. Ask God to make you a father after His own heart!
When your children, young or old, need Dad, covenant before God that they will find you there! That prodigal son in Luke 15? “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry” (Luke 15:20-24).
Ron Taron
Steinbach, Manitoba
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