Faithful FatherhoodSample

Parenting in Faith: A Devotional for Fathers

Fatherhood is a journey filled with joys, challenges, and fears. Many of us worry about whether our kids will turn out right. Will they make wise decisions? Will they follow the Lord? These fears can sometimes shape our parenting in ways we don’t intend. But as I’ve learned, parenting in fear creates fear in our children. Parenting in faith, however, inspires faith.

Fear vs. Faith in Parenting

When my children were young, I often parented from a place of fear. My constant corrections—even with good intentions—communicated to my daughters that they could never meet my standards. While I aimed to teach them excellence, I unintentionally eroded their confidence and created distance in our relationship.

But then I discovered a transformative principle in Hebrews 3:13: “Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” The Bible calls us to encourage, to put courage into others. This principle applies powerfully to fatherhood.

Consistent encouragement tells our children who they are, inspiring them to live up to their God-given potential. Correction, while necessary, tells them who they are not. Both have their place, but encouragement fosters confidence and a stronger relationship.

The Power of Encouragement

Encouragement means speaking life into our kids. It’s telling them, “I’m proud of your effort,” or, “I’m so glad God put you in our family.” These affirmations help our children see themselves as God sees them—loved, valued, and capable. Over time, I shifted from constant correction to intentional encouragement, and the results were profound. My children began to listen more, grow in confidence, and strive for excellence on their own.

I’ll never forget a conversation with my high school daughter, Madeline. I had been practicing encouragement for years when she said, “Dad, years ago, I felt like I couldn’t do anything right in your eyes. Now, I feel like I can’t do anything wrong.” Her words affirmed the power of encouragement in shaping our kids’ confidence and faith.

Practical Steps to Parent in Faith

1. Speak Life Daily: Use affirming statements like “That’s impressive,” “I’m proud of you,” or “God gave you such a great gift.” Let your words reflect how God sees them.

2. Focus on Who They Are: Instead of pointing out mistakes, emphasize their strengths and potential. This builds their identity and inspires growth.

3. Pray for Them: Cover your children in prayer, asking God to guide their hearts, protect their paths, and use their lives for His glory.

4. Trust God’s Plan: 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Trust that God is at work in your children’s lives and has a good plan for their future.

A Call to Action

Fatherhood isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being present and intentional. When we parent in faith rather than fear, we inspire our kids to become confident, faith-filled individuals. Begin today by speaking life into your children. Tell them who they are in God’s eyes, and watch as they grow in confidence and faith.

What kind of dad do you want to be? Let’s choose to parent in faith, creating a legacy of encouragement, love, and trust in God.