Millions of children are growing up without fathers for different reasons.
It could be because the father has abandoned the family or has already passed away. It could also be because the father is distant or is working away from home.
Whatever the reason may be, growing up without a solid father figure is a huge challenge for men who wish to be a father. Now, the questions arise: when a fatherless man becomes a father, what kind of father will he be? How can a fatherless father be a great dad to his own children?
Here are some helpful tips to help you become a better haligi ng tahanan if you grew up fatherless:
1. Look for a role model and a mentor
If you grow up without a dad, look for a male role model and pattern your life after him. When you are thinking seriously about settling down, ask him questions so you can learn from a man that you respect.
Find a good male role model now. He could be someone you respect from the church, at work, or a relative you look up to. It could be someone from a support group. Watch how he interacts with his children and ask him for advice about fatherhood.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22, NIV)
2. Embrace love and patience
Being a good dad is not about being perfect; it’s about being present and loving. It’s a journey of love, patience, and grace.
Think about how God loves you, even when you make mistakes. Aim to mirror that patience and understanding in your interactions with your children. Be encouraging, be nurturing. Being there for them and showing them love can create a safe and trusting environment, even if you didn’t experience that growing up.
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 ESV)
3. Allow God to father you
In Psalm 68:5, God reveals himself as the father to the fatherless.
Someone who does not have a good relationship with his father might have a hard time believing that God is a good father. But He is. And even though you do not have an earthly father, God is your perfect father.
He will father you and guide you to become a good man—and a good dad to your children. He will show you that He is good and perfect in every encounter with Him through prayers and His Word.
Be encouraged! You can still be the best father you can be, even in the absence of one, as you learn from God’s grace, love, wisdom, and humility.
May God’s strength cover your journey as you strive to be the father He created you to be!
“‘And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:18 NASB)
Are you worried about your ability to be a good father? Are you struggling to be a good dad to your children?
This Father’s Day, allow us to pray for you. Do not hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700, or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.
