The role of the father

It is often said that a child needs a mother. But when does it actually need the father? When the child starts kindergarten and the father plays soccer with his son and goes ice skating with his daughter? There are different types of fathers who take different approaches to parenting:

• The “I'll-be-there-and-done-that” dad is completely absent and withdraws from responsibility, which leads to an emotional vacuum.
• The chaotic dad means well, but unconsciously makes mistakes that make his children's lives more difficult.
• The overachiever with ambitions puts career and personal interests above parenting, without really investing in the relationship with his children.
• The noble but rushed father is present, but rarely asks himself who his children really are and why he is raising them.
• The conscious father puts parenting at the center and actively works to develop his children's potential in faith, personality and purpose.

According to the Bible, fathers should not only be providers or authority figures, but also spiritual leaders who accompany their children with patience and love. In the Old Testament, we find the promise that God will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children and the hearts of the children to the fathers (cf. Malachi 4:6). This reversal emphasizes how important it is for fathers to be actively involved in parenting.

One of the most important tasks of a father is to set an example of faith. Children watch closely how their father acts. When fathers pray, forgive and involve God in everyday life, children see that faith is alive. Prayer plays a central role in this because it is the place where worries can be laid aside and God's wisdom can be sought. In addition, fathers can pray for their children and make a decisive difference in their lives.

Fathers are not perfect, but they are called by God to lead their children in love, truth and grace. By opening their hearts to their children, they reflect the fatherly love of God. This love is strong, patient and always ready to create paths of healing and hope.

The question is not whether you have influence as a father - the question is how you use it. Do you just want to “be there” or do you want to actively shape your children's lives? An intentional father makes the difference - for his children and future generations.

Next Step: As a father, are you a role model for your children? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can fulfill your role as a father and what strategies you can use when you feel overwhelmed.