THE MARKS OF A GODLY FATHER (FATHER'S DAY)

THE MARKS OF A GODLY FATHER (FATHER'S DAY)

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 128:1-4

Supporting Texts: Joshua 24:15, Proverbs 14:26, 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12, Luke 15:17-24, Deuteronomy 6:6-9

INTRODUCTION:
Fatherhood is a sacred calling that extends beyond provision and protection—it is about influence, leadership, and legacy. God’s idea of fatherhood reflects His own role as a loving, righteous, and just Father to all humanity. Fathers are called to shape generations by their faith, character, and love.

As we honour fathers today, we also examine the biblical picture of what a godly father looks like. The marks of a godly father are not found merely in status or strength, but in spiritual responsibility and daily faithfulness. A godly father is a man after God’s heart who lives in obedience and leads his home with purpose.

This message is both a celebration and a challenge—to all fathers, potential fathers, and father figures—to embrace their calling and walk in the footsteps of our heavenly Father.

1. A GODLY FATHER FEARS THE LORD AND WALKS IN HIS WAYS
A father who fears the Lord becomes a pillar of stability and guidance in his home. His reverence for God sets the tone for the family’s spiritual atmosphere.

a) He lives a life of obedience and integrity (Psalm 128:1):
The fear of the Lord is reflected in how a man lives and makes decisions.

b) He honours God in his private and public life (Proverbs 3:7):
Reverence is not part-time—it’s visible in every sphere of life.

c) He rejects compromise and worldliness (Romans 12:2):
A godly father chooses holiness even when it’s unpopular.

d) His life inspires his children to know God (Proverbs 14:26):
A father’s fear of God gives his children a refuge and example.

Biblical Example: Noah feared God and led his household into divine preservation (Genesis 6:8-10).

2. A GODLY FATHER LEADS HIS FAMILY IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Leadership in the home is not about control, but about guidance, love, and example. A godly father is a spiritual shepherd.

a) He takes responsibility for the spiritual growth of his household (Joshua 24:15):
Like Joshua, he leads by declaration and action.

b) He teaches the Word of God to his children (Deuteronomy 6:6-9):
Scripture is not left to chance; it is passed down intentionally.

c) He makes his home an altar of prayer and worship (Genesis 26:25):
God’s presence is hosted by fathers who build altars.

d) He disciplines with love and purpose (Proverbs 3:12):
Correction is given not out of anger but out of love.

Biblical Example: Abraham led his household in righteousness, and God trusted him to do so (Genesis 18:19).

3. A GODLY FATHER LOVES UNCONDITIONALLY
Love is the most powerful tool a father can use to build a lasting legacy. It is through love that children are shaped into whole, healthy adults.

a) He expresses affection and affirmation (Matthew 3:17):
Just as the Father affirmed Jesus, earthly fathers must affirm their children.

b) He is patient and gracious with his children’s weaknesses (Colossians 3:21):
Love doesn’t provoke or discourage—it uplifts.

c) He forgives and seeks reconciliation (Ephesians 4:32):
A godly father is quick to restore and build unity.

d) He celebrates his children’s victories and returns (Luke 15:20-24):
True fatherhood rejoices in redemption and growth.

Biblical Example: The father of the prodigal son displayed unconditional love and acceptance (Luke 15:20-24).

4. A GODLY FATHER PROVIDES FOR HIS FAMILY’S NEEDS
Provision is not only financial—it includes emotional, spiritual, and relational support. A godly father meets his family’s total needs.

a) He works diligently to meet physical needs (1 Timothy 5:8):
Laziness has no place in godly fatherhood.

b) He provides emotional stability and protection (Isaiah 32:2):
His presence calms fears and gives direction.

c) He offers spiritual covering and blessing (Job 1:5):
He doesn’t leave his family exposed spiritually.

d) He teaches his family kingdom priorities (Matthew 6:33):
He provides by pointing them to the Source—God.

Biblical Example: Joseph provided and protected Mary and Jesus through obedience to divine instruction (Matthew 2:13-15).

5. A GODLY FATHER BUILDS A LASTING LEGACY
Every action of a father writes the story that his children and grandchildren will read. Legacy is intentional and spiritual.

a) He imparts faith and values (2 Timothy 1:5):
Faith is not inherited by bloodline but passed by example.

b) He blesses and speaks prophetically over his children (Genesis 49:1-28):
Fathers declare destiny into the lives of their children.

c) He trains his children for purpose (Proverbs 22:6):
Legacy includes grooming children in their calling.

d) He lives for eternal rewards, not just earthly success (Proverbs 13:22):
What he builds outlives him.

Biblical Example: David’s life and devotion influenced Solomon’s reign and legacy (1 Kings 3:6).

CONCLUSION:
The world needs fathers who reflect the character and heart of God. The calling of a father is sacred, and with God's help, it can be fulfilled with excellence. A godly father leaves behind more than property—he leaves a spiritual imprint that transforms generations.

This Father’s Day, let every man rise to the challenge of godly fatherhood. Let us honour, support, and pray for our fathers, knowing that through them, God builds strong families and a strong future.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for the gift and calling of fathers.
2. Raise fathers who walk in the fear of the Lord.
3. Let every father become a true spiritual leader in the home.
4. Heal every broken father-child relationship.
5. Give strength to fathers who are weary or discouraged.
6. Provide for fathers struggling to meet their family’s needs.
7. Restore honour to the office of fatherhood in our generation.
8. Bless the efforts of godly fathers with visible results.
9. Anoint fathers to build lasting spiritual legacies.
10. Let the next generation be better because of today's fathers.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will be a father after God's own heart.
2. Your children will rise and call you blessed.
3. You will not fail in your fatherly responsibilities.
4. The Lord will grant you wisdom to guide your household.
5. Divine favour will rest upon your home.
6. You will leave behind a legacy of righteousness.
7. Your sacrifices will bring generational rewards.
8. God will honour you as you honour Him in fatherhood.
9. You shall not labour in vain over your children.
10. Your life will reflect the Fatherhood of God in every season.