When you enter this world, you pass through a door, greeted by a team waiting on the other side, ready to assist you and cover you. This is your day one. As you grow—from a child to a teenager, young adult, and finally an adult—you begin to inherit titles that society imposes on you. These titles, once ingrained in your psyche, can obscure the truth of who you really are and where you come from.
As time passes, you may strive to become a "CEO," "Entrepreneur," "Pastor," "Boss," "Architect," "Bishop," "Head of Marketing," "Head of Information Security," "Project Manager," and so on. Yet, these titles are mere illusions, distracting you from what is truly real. So, what is real?
What is real is where we should direct our questions—to the Creator of this earth. Our Father, who art in Heaven, has the answers. As it is written, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:9-10).
We receive wisdom from Him, the Father of everything. If God is the Father of everything, then "Father" is the highest form of leadership. Jesus himself said, "Do not call anyone on earth 'father,' for you have one Father, and he is in heaven" (Matthew 23:9).
A parable that will eventually make sense:
A son will never receive a title above his father. He will always be under his father's submission, whether he likes it or not.
As Proverbs reminds us, "Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old" (Proverbs 23:22). This submission is not a burden but a blessing, as we honor our Heavenly Father, who leads us in truth and love.
As it is written, "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God" (Romans 8:14).
What Does it Mean to Be a Father?
Being a father goes beyond the biological act of having children. It is a divine role that mirrors God's relationship with humanity. A father is not just a provider or protector; he is a leader, guide, and source of wisdom. As the Bible says, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him" (Psalm 103:13).
This verse emphasizes the depth of care and responsibility a father holds, reflecting God's own compassion for us.
The Role and Purpose of Being a Father
The role of a father is multifaceted. It includes:
• Guidance and Instruction: Fathers are called to lead their children in the way of righteousness.
As Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." This means teaching them not only through words but by living a life that reflects God's principles.
• Provision and Protection: A father is also a provider and protector, ensuring that his family is cared for physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This echoes God's role as Jehovah Jireh, our provider.
• Discipline and Correction: Proverbs 3:12 says, "Because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."
Discipline, when done with love, shapes character and instills wisdom.
• Love and Compassion: A father's love should mirror God's unconditional love.
Just as God’s love is steadfast and unfailing, so too should a father’s love be for his children.
How Does One Become a Father?
Becoming a father in the truest sense is not just about having children; it is about embracing the responsibilities that come with fatherhood. This includes:
• Spiritual Leadership: A true father leads his family in faith, showing them the way to God through example and teaching.
• Moral Responsibility: A father’s actions and decisions impact the entire household. He must live with integrity and righteousness, seeking God's guidance in all things.
• Nurturing Potential: Just as God nurtures our gifts and talents, a father should recognize and nurture the unique gifts in his children, guiding them to fulfill their God-given purpose.
Are You a Father Just Because You Have Children?
Having children does not automatically make one a father in the spiritual sense. True fatherhood involves active participation in the child’s life, providing not only for their physical needs but also guiding them spiritually and morally. The Bible speaks of God as the ultimate Father, and we are called to emulate His example. "You have one Father, and he is in heaven" (Matthew 23:9).
Thus, fatherhood is a role that requires commitment to God’s principles.
Is Being a Father About Having Free Will to Do as You Want?
Fatherhood comes with the responsibility of submitting to God’s will. While free will allows a father to make choices, those choices should align with God’s direction. The Bible says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6).
A father must seek God's guidance in all his decisions, knowing that his choices affect not only himself but also his family.
Are We Supposed to as Fathers Do Different Types of Work or Were We Called to Specialize in One Gift?
Each father is uniquely gifted, and these gifts are to be used in the service of his family and God. "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them" (1 Corinthians 12:4).
Some fathers may be called to lead in business, others in ministry, teaching, or craftsmanship. What matters is that a father uses his gifts to glorify God and to fulfill his role within the family. Specialization in a particular gift can lead to excellence, but it should not limit a father’s responsibility to guide, protect, and love his family in all aspects.
Conclusion
Fatherhood is a sacred role that goes beyond the physical act of having children. It is about leading, guiding, protecting, and nurturing in alignment with God's will. A father must seek God’s direction, use his gifts wisely, and live a life that reflects God’s love and wisdom. In doing so, he fulfills the highest calling of leadership, embodying the true essence of what it means to be a father.
Amen