FATHER'S DAY: HONOURING FATHERS AND WALKING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

HONOURING FATHERS AND WALKING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 6:2-4

Supporting Texts: Genesis 18:19, Proverbs 20:7, Malachi 4:6, Luke 15:20-24, Psalm 103:13

INTRODUCTION:
Fatherhood is a divine institution ordained by God to mirror His role as our heavenly Father. God has placed fathers in families as providers, protectors, guides, and spiritual leaders. While society may undervalue fatherhood, Scripture reveals its high importance and the blessings attached to honouring our fathers.

Father’s Day is more than a celebration—it’s a reminder of responsibility, legacy, and honour. It’s a call for fathers to rise to their godly role and for children and families to recognise and respect that role. A nation that honours its fathers secures a future of stability and blessing.

The father-figure carries both authority and influence. When fathers lead with integrity and love, families are strengthened, and God's order is established. Today, we will explore how to honour fathers, the blessings of godly fatherhood, and how to walk in the legacy God intends.

1. THE ROLE OF A GODLY FATHER

a) Spiritual leadership in the home:
A godly father leads his family in the fear of the Lord (Genesis 18:19).

b) Providing for both physical and emotional needs:
A father is more than a provider of money—he gives love, support, and security (1 Timothy 5:8).

c) Teaching by example:
Children follow what they see. A righteous man’s life speaks louder than his words (Proverbs 20:7).

d) Correcting in love and discipline:
A father disciplines out of love, not anger (Ephesians 6:4).

Biblical Example: God called Abraham to lead his family and generations through obedience and instruction (Genesis 18:19).

2. THE BLESSING OF HONOURING FATHERS

a) Honouring fathers brings long life and peace:
The commandment to honour father and mother comes with a promise (Ephesians 6:2-3).

b) Honour unlocks generational blessings:
God blesses those who walk in respect and humility toward their parents.

c) Disrespect invites curses and brokenness:
Ignoring or dishonouring fathers can bring spiritual consequences (Deuteronomy 27:16).

d) Honour involves actions, not just words:
Providing care, appreciation, and obedience shows true honour.

Biblical Example: Shem and Japheth honoured Noah and were blessed, while Ham was cursed for dishonour (Genesis 9:22-27).

3. FATHERS AS REFLECTIONS OF GOD’S HEART

a) God is our perfect example of a Father:
He is compassionate, patient, and full of mercy (Psalm 103:13).

b) Earthly fathers should mirror God's love:
Their actions should reflect divine care and consistency.

c) The father’s love brings healing and security:
Like the father in the story of the prodigal son, love restores (Luke 15:20-24).

d) Fatherhood is about presence, not just provision:
God is Emmanuel—present with us. Fathers should be available too.

Biblical Example: The father of the prodigal son welcomed his wayward child back with love and joy (Luke 15:20-24).

4. THE LEGACY OF A RIGHTEOUS FATHER

a) Fathers pass down blessings or burdens:
The choices of a father affect generations (Exodus 20:5-6).

b) A righteous father leaves behind a godly path:
His life becomes a testimony to his children (Proverbs 13:22).

c) Legacy is built daily through love, truth, and sacrifice:
It is not what you leave for your children, but what you leave in them.

d) God remembers the seeds sown by faithful fathers:
He honours those who walk uprightly before Him.

Biblical Example: David's legacy of worship and obedience influenced generations, including Solomon (1 Kings 3:6).

5. RECONNECTING AND RESTORING BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS

a) God desires unity between fathers and children:
Malachi 4:6 speaks of restoring hearts to heal generations.

b) Forgiveness opens the door to healing:
Children and fathers must let go of bitterness and hurt.

c) Restoration strengthens families and communities:
Strong families build strong societies.

d) The enemy seeks to divide, but God unites:
Reconciliation is a spiritual victory.

Biblical Example: Jacob and Esau’s reunion brought healing after years of separation (Genesis 33:1-11).

CONCLUSION:
Fatherhood is both a calling and a gift. As we celebrate Father’s Day, we must not only appreciate our earthly fathers but also embrace God’s role as our perfect Father. Every father here is called to leave a godly legacy. Every child is called to honour and appreciate their father.

Let this be a day of reflection, healing, honour, and recommitment. Whether you are a father, child, or spiritual father, may God’s grace rest on you to fulfil your divine assignment.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Father, for the gift and role of godly fathers.
2. Lord, raise up fathers who will walk in integrity and fear You.
3. Heal every broken relationship between fathers and children.
4. Restore the honour of fatherhood in our homes and nation.
5. Give wisdom and strength to every father to lead well.
6. Let children learn to honour their fathers with joy and respect.
7. Raise spiritual fathers who will nurture the next generation.
8. Rebuke the spirit of fatherlessness in our land.
9. Help fathers to be present, loving, and faithful like You.
10. Let generational blessings flow through every father here today.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall walk in the grace of godly fatherhood.
2. Every broken bridge between fathers and children is restored.
3. You will be a voice of wisdom and strength in your family.
4. The legacy of righteousness shall continue through your seed.
5. God will honour you as you honour your earthly and heavenly Father.
6. Your household will be a model of peace and godly order.
7. No curse of fatherlessness will operate in your lineage.
8. Your children will rise and call you blessed.
9. Divine favour will follow your fatherly sacrifices.
10. You will not fail in your role as a father—spiritually or biologically.