A Godly Father

Most people are aware of the important role fathers play in the lives of their children.  But it's not just enough for men to know the characteristics of a godly father, they must also DO what is required to BE a godly father.  Real fathers are there for their children to help them grow spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Godly fathers accept the responsibility God has given them and don't try to shift it to someone else.  They know that every decision they make will affect each member of the family.  Therefore they need to have the mind of Christ so they can make wise and godly decisions for their family.  In this post, I want to share with you four assignments that a godly father fulfills for their children.

1.  Provide A Spiritual Covering

Godly fathers are the spiritual leaders of their homes and children of godly fathers know that they will always be there for them and will love them know matter what.  The godly father has the same love for his children as the Heavenly Father does for each of us.  The godly father also provides the resources necessary for their children's spiritual growth.

2.  Provide Guidance By Example

Nothing is more powerful in guiding your children than a good or unfortunately a bad example. As

fathers we must model the behavior we desire out of our children.  We have 18 to 20 years at the most to train and teach our children to make wise decisions when they get out on their own.  One of the important behaviors we should desire for our children is the practice of prayer.  To teach them the value of prayer, be sure to turn to prayer for every situation you deal with as a family.

3.  Provide Guidance By Counseling

Let your children know that no topic is "off limits."  Allow them to express themselves no matter what they think.  Don't allow them to be "disrespectful" but do allow them to be themselves.  If you want to provide guidance for you children then you must spend time with them.  One person said children spell "love" T-I-M-E!  Children need our time.  If you aren't spending quality time guiding and counseling with your children, then they will conclude "if you don't have time for me, then you must not care about me."  That may not be the case, but that is how a child will perceive it.

4.  Stop Generational Cycles

This is critical for your children to be successful.  There may be generational cycles at work in your life.  These could include poverty, lust, anger, divorce, sexual abuse, etc.  As a father you must recognize it, call it what it is, renounce it and repent from it, seek God's help for deliverance, and then walk in liberty!  It is your responsibility as the father to break these generational cycles so they don't keep your children in bondage.

Father's have a tremendous responsibility.  None of us had perfect fathers as an example to follow.  Nor are any of us perfect.  Where you have made mistakes, ask your children to forgive you.  Do it with sincerity and humility and God will honor it.  Then start over and be the godly father God desires you to be.

Pastor Temple