The Journey of Fatherhood Reflection

By Ianpassion

My son Nemi was hiking with me at Kaew Mae Pan, Chiangmai, Thailand

I am always contemplating how I can dedicate my best time to my children while they are still young. One day, they will embark on their own paths, pursuing their dreams and starting their own families.

I am reflecting on the profound impact of spiritual values in our culture and homes. Ephesians 6:4 advises fathers, saying, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."

Here are some questions I often find myself pondering—questions that strike at the heart of fatherhood and our relationship with the next generation:

• What causes children to become angry and disrespectful toward their fathers?

• How can fathers discipline their children in ways that express love and earn their respect?

• How can fathers weave the teachings of the Lord into the fabric of their children’s daily lives?

These questions are not merely theoretical, they are deeply personal and practical. I have seen elderly men burdened with regrets over how they raised their children. They long to go back and undo the mistakes, to speak differently, to show more affection, to lead with gentleness instead of control. But often, it’s too late to relive those moments. What remains is the weight of the consequences they carry until their final breath.

In the Kingdom of our Almighty Father, fatherhood carries profound significance. It is not just a role; it is a calling. A godly father is one who lovingly nurtures, guides, and sacrifices for his children. He gives generously of his time, resources, and heart. His love is steady and sacrificial, mirroring the heart of the Father Almighty Himself.

In contrast, a man who lacks true fatherly character may rely on control instead of care. He uses manipulation rather than mentorship. He demands obedience through fear instead of earning respect through love. Over time, his children may become more afraid of him than eager to be with him, more distant than connected.

But that is not the way of our Heavenly Father.

The Almighty delights in being with His children. He doesn’t force His presence upon us, but rather invites us into moments of intimacy and joy. He treasures the times when we come to Him freely....not out of fear, but out of love. He finds joy in honest conversations, in laughter shared without pretense, in our willingness to simply be with Him. And it grieves Him when His children are afraid of Him or feel far from His heart.

If we want to model true fatherhood, we must begin by looking at the Father Almighty Himself. He is our perfect example. Let us seek to be fathers who reflect His gentleness, His truth, His patience, and His joy.

Let us raise our children who know they are unconditionally loved, not because they perform, but because they belong.

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