A Loving Father

Over a decade ago when my husband and I were first considering having a baby, I remember there being a time of waiting. I felt ready to have a child and grow our family however, Charlie needed a bit more time. I didn’t realise it then, but he was already being a great daddy long before ever having a child. He had love and wisdom in his heart to consider our circumstances and if this was the right time in our lives to have a little one.

A loving father is considerate.

When we were expecting Anna, we chose to have a traditional family dynamic of me being at home with our child and my husband would continue working to support our family. In all these years since first starting our parenting journey, I have not heard Charlie complain about the financial strain he has carried. He loves our children so well by being financially supportive. With no complaints or grumbling toward me or the kids, my husband faithfully continues to give so much of himself toward his job, ensuring that both our daughter and son have their needs met.

A loving father is supportive.

Whenever Charlie is around, there is bound to be a load of giggles and laughter equally coming from our children and their daddy. Charlie delights in Anna and Luke and values spending time with them. I have fond memories of him pushing the children in cardboard box races across our dining room floor, taking them around the garden over and over again in their toy car, and teaching them to ride their bicycles.

A loving father is intentional about connection.

Perhaps one of the biggest challenges of raising children is supporting them emotionally and teaching them to recognise their feelings. Listening to their school drama with peers then providing advice and giving them assurance with the challenges of growing up, Charlie demonstrates care not only for their physical needs but for their hearts and spiritual growth.

A loving father is compassionate.

Challenging for most dads, and moms alike, it is difficult knowing that we do not have life all figured out, have our own daily struggles amid raising kids, and need help to instruct our precious children. Leaning on God’s help allows Charlie to give of himself beyond what he thinks he has to offer. Readily saying sorry to our daughter and son, asking forgiveness when something goes wrong shows them that no one is perfect. Forgiveness is part of real relationship.

A loving father is humble.

Whether we, or our children, have had a physical father with these qualities or not, I am so thankful that God the Father is fully equipped to meet all our needs, especially in the areas of our lives which feel lacking. Each of us can run straight to God’s arms and let him heal, nurture, and strengthen the wounds and voids of our hearts. He is the ultimate, loving Father: considerate, supportive, intentional, compassionate, humble, and so much more.

Let’s pray:

Dear God,

Thank you for the father figures (dads, stepdads, grandpas, uncles, family friends, teachers) in our lives who have represented and demonstrated your love well to us and our children.

Please bless and strengthen these men to continue your good work of fathering by loving their children well.

For those fathers who feel lost or are struggling, please come alongside them in their brokenness and do your healing work.

For those who are missing a father figure, please be especially dear to their heart and make provision for all their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs.

Thank you that you are forever our Heavenly Father, full of love, grace, and acceptance. Please keep us close to your heart through Jesus and fill us with your peace.

In Jesus’ name we pray,

Amen.