A father after God’s own heart is more than a title; it’s a divine calling with responsibility, and these are some of the many things he does for his children:
Walks in integrity before his children: Children often follow what they observe in their fathers. Living a life of integrity is not always easy, but it is always right. Being a righteous man not only enriches his life but shapes the lives of his children. The wonderful outcome of leading a life of integrity is that it not only benefits him, but it also blesses his children. “The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him” (Proverbs 20:7 KJV).
Has compassion for his children: A father shows compassion in his interactions with his children. He understands the troubles his children might face in life, and he’s there to listen to their needs and feelings. God will do the same thing for us. “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him” (Psalm 103:13 NIV).
He’s a prayer warrior for his children: He stands in the gap, praying for his children daily for protection, good health, wisdom, salvation and more. “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16 NLT).
Teaches the Word of God consistently to his children: Fathers must instill God’s Word into their children daily. When he makes teaching his children about God a priority, he anchors their lives in faith. “And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up” (Deuteronomy 6:7 KJV).
Encourages his children: When his children are having a bad day or feeling down and out, he encourages them by telling them, “You can make it, don’t give up, you can do it if you set your mind to it!” “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV).
Disciplines his children in love: Fathers should discipline their children in love. Their actions should be fair, consistent and aimed at teaching and growth rather than punishment. Effective discipline helps children understand boundaries and develop self-control, while loving guidance ensures they feel valued and understood. “Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them” (Proverbs 13:24 NLT).
So be encouraged today, fathers, and always remember: A father after God’s own heart is a good example for his children to pattern their lives by. “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12 KJV).
Happy Father’s Day to all fathers!
Minister Sherry Ivy is a minister of New Providence M.B. Church (Healing & Yoke Destroying Ministry) in Macon, Mississippi, under the leadership of her husband, Pastor Willie J. Ivy Sr. She can be contacted via email at [email protected].
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