Fathers [Pastor Wilson Looks at the Influential Role Entrusted to Fathers]

Studies have shown that fathers have a profound influence upon their children, who look to them to provide a feeling of security, both physical and emotional. Furthermore, when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it enhances a child’s mental and social development and helps them feel confident. Most importantly, fathers have a profound influence on the spiritual life of their children. 

An interesting survey in Switzerland conducted some years ago by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office in Neuchatel, posed some questions to determine whether a person's religious practices influenced the spiritual practices of the next generation. The study concluded: "It is the religious practice of the father of the family that, above all, determines the future attendance at or absence from church of the children."

We also have an abundance of inspired insight regarding the spiritual role of fathers. In Adventist Home we read, "The father . . . will bind his children to the throne of God by living faith. Distrusting his own strength, he hangs his helpless soul on Jesus and takes hold of the strength of the Most High.” The author continues: "Brethren, pray at home, in your family, night and morning; pray earnestly in your closet; and while engaged in your daily labor, lift up the soul to God in prayer. It was thus that Enoch walked with God" (p. 212).

And, of course, the Bible is full of instruction regarding family relationships. In Ephesians 6:4 we read, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." And in Proverbs 1:8 this important instruction is given: "Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching."

Sometimes, however, tensions arise, and it is at these times that the promise of Malachi 4:6 is especially comforting. Speaking of God's power to heal relationships, it says "He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers."

And while no human father is perfect, how wonderful it is to know that we have a perfect Heavenly Father who cares about us deeply. In Psalm 103, verses 8, 13, and 14 we read: "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in mercy . . . As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust."

And we have this assurance from Jesus Himself when He says in John 16:27 "for the Father Himself loves you. . . "

Fathers--let Jesus, His Word, and constant prayer be your guide. You can find tremendous strength, courage, and wisdom just this way.