Family Talk Night Light for Parents

Father of All Fathers

“My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14

You don’t need a license or a diploma to become a father, yet the job description is one of the toughest imaginable. According to Scripture, a father encourages and comforts his children, urging them to “live lives worthy of God” (1 Thessalonians 2:11–12). He is charged with the instruction (Proverbs 1:8–9) and discipline (Hebrews 12:10) of his offspring. He is expected to provide “good gifts” for his children (Matthew 7:9–11). Harder still, a father must not “exasperate” his children as he does these things. Instead—and most important of all—he is to “bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4).

In the face of these enormous responsibilities, you may feel like a high school dropout interviewing for a job as a nuclear physicist—you know that your résumé doesn’t measure up! But don’t be discouraged. Scripture tells us that our heavenly Father will assist us in each of life’s heavy responsibilities: “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs” (Isaiah 58:11). You can depend on almighty God, the Father of all fathers, for strength in every parenting challenge—no matter what your qualifications might be.

Before you say good night…

What are your strengths as a father?

What areas of fatherhood do you most need to work on?

Are you depending on God for answers to challenges with your kids?

How can you do better in trusting the Lord as a dad?

(father) Dear Lord, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the mighty responsibilities of fatherhood. Help me to come before You daily, humbly asking for Your wisdom as I seek the best for my children. Amen.

• From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
  Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.