Father's Day

FATHER'S DAY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Malachi 4:5-6

Supporting Texts: Ephesians 6:1-4, Proverbs 20:7, Genesis 18:19, Luke 15:11–24, Psalm 103:13

INTRODUCTION:

Fatherhood is a divine assignment and a critical pillar in the foundation of any society. In God’s wisdom, He designed fathers to be protectors, providers, leaders, and nurturers. When fathers walk in their calling, homes are stable, children flourish, and communities thrive. But when fatherhood is undermined or neglected, the damage can span generations.

Fathers are not only physical heads of families, but also spiritual leaders appointed to guide their children in righteousness. Their presence brings order, their words bring direction, and their example sets the path for legacy. A father who fears God becomes a living blueprint for his family, shaping character and establishing godly values.

Sadly, we live in a time when the role of the father is often minimised or attacked. The enemy knows that destroying fatherhood is one of the fastest ways to destroy a family. Today, as we celebrate Father’s Day, we must renew our honour for fathers and reaffirm God’s design for their irreplaceable role in building lives and shaping generations.

1. FATHERS ARE GOD’S APPOINTED LEADERS IN THE HOME

a) They provide vision and direction (Genesis 18:19)

God chose Abraham to lead his household in the ways of righteousness and justice.

b) They are examples of godly character (Proverbs 20:7)

A father’s lifestyle shapes his children’s moral compass more than his words.

c) They teach and correct with love (Ephesians 6:4)

Fathers are called to nurture, not provoke—to raise their children in truth and love.

d) They stand as watchmen over their families (Job 1:5)

Like Job, a father must stand in prayer and intercession for his household.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham exemplified spiritual leadership and received God’s covenant for generations (Genesis 17:1–9).

2. FATHERS REFLECT THE HEART OF GOD TO THEIR CHILDREN

a) They mirror God's compassion and grace (Psalm 103:13)

Just as God is compassionate toward His children, fathers are to be tender and forgiving.

b) They show mercy and patience in discipline (Hebrews 12:9–10)

A godly father disciplines not to harm, but to heal and correct with love.

c) They affirm identity and purpose (Matthew 3:17)

God affirmed Jesus at His baptism—fathers must do the same for their children.

d) They reconcile and restore when others condemn (Luke 15:20)

The father in the parable of the prodigal son displayed unconditional love and restoration.

e) Biblical Example: The prodigal son's father revealed God’s heart of forgiveness and acceptance (Luke 15:11–24).

3. FATHERS CARRY GENERATIONAL INFLUENCE AND LEGACY

a) They shape destinies through their choices (Deuteronomy 30:19)

Fathers influence whether their families walk in blessing or in bondage.

b) They pass on faith and values (2 Timothy 1:5)

Just like Timothy’s family heritage of faith, fathers impart lasting spiritual legacy.

c) They bless their children through prophetic declarations (Genesis 49:1–28)

Fathers have spiritual authority to shape the future of their lineage with their words.

d) They create a foundation for financial and spiritual inheritance (Proverbs 13:22)

A godly father leaves more than possessions—he leaves purpose.

e) Biblical Example: Jacob’s blessings over his sons became prophetic blueprints for Israel’s tribes (Genesis 49).

4. FATHERS DESERVE HONOUR, PRAYER, AND SUPPORT

a) Honouring fathers attracts divine blessings (Ephesians 6:2–3)

Respecting fathers is a command with a promise—long life and prosperity.

b) Fathers need encouragement in their responsibilities (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Many fathers are silently burdened and need support and appreciation.

c) Families must pray for their fathers’ strength and wisdom (James 1:5)

Fathers need divine wisdom to handle the pressures of leadership.

d) We must rebuild honour for fatherhood in our society (Malachi 4:6)

Restoring honour between fathers and children is essential for healing homes.

e) Biblical Example: Joseph, though not Jesus’ biological father, fulfilled his fatherly role faithfully and honourably (Matthew 1:18–25).

CONCLUSION:

Fathers are more than providers—they are destiny-shapers, spiritual leaders, and legacy-bearers. God’s design for fathers is not something to be dismissed or downplayed. It is a divine responsibility that must be embraced with humility, courage, and grace. A godly father builds not just a home, but a heritage that endures.

As we celebrate Father’s Day today, let us recommit to honouring fathers and praying for them. Let every man rise up to fulfil the call of God upon his life. And may the Lord raise a generation of fathers who will walk in righteousness, raise godly seeds, and carry divine favour from generation to generation.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, thank You for the gift of fatherhood and father figures.

2. Lord, strengthen every father to fulfil his divine assignment.

3. Heal every father-child relationship that has been broken.

4. Raise godly fathers who will lead with wisdom and grace.

5. Let fathers receive divine direction in raising their children.