A Father’s Heart: Leading with Love and Grace
Ephesians 6:1–4 (NRSV)
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—this is the first commandment with a promise: so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth. And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
Father’s Day gives us the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the sacred role of fatherhood. In Ephesians 6:1–4, Paul speaks both to children and to fathers, giving us a glimpse of God’s vision for family life rooted in love, respect, and grace.
Too often, we focus only on the first part of this passage: the call for children to obey and honor their parents. But this passage is equally about the responsibility of fathers—not to dominate or demand, but to nurture, instruct, and guide with the heart of Christ.
Paul writes, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger.” What a timely word in a world where pressure, expectations, and emotional distance can so easily strain the relationship between fathers and their children. God is calling fathers not to lead with fear, but with faith. Not with control, but with compassion.
In a culture that often celebrates toughness, Scripture invites fathers to be tender. To shape their children not just with correction, but with presence. Not just with instruction, but with example.
The second half of verse 4 is powerful: “Bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” This is more than teaching Bible stories or praying at dinner. It’s a lifestyle of modeling Christ—of showing forgiveness, expressing grace, practicing humility, and walking in truth.
If you're a father, today is a moment to reflect and rejoice. You’ve been entrusted with a holy calling. You are shaping a future generation not only by what you say but by who you are. Your quiet sacrifices, your words of encouragement, your patience in chaos—all of it matters deeply in the kingdom of God.
If you’re someone who is missing your father today, or your relationship has been complicated or painful, know this: our Heavenly Father is faithful and always present. He heals, restores, and surrounds you with His love.
And if you’re a part of a church family, look around—there are spiritual fathers all around us. Men who mentor, serve, and love not because they have to, but because Christ compels them to.
So this Father’s Day, let’s give thanks for fathers who reflect God’s love. Let’s encourage those who are still growing into this role. And let’s remember the perfect Father whose love never fails.
In God’s grip,
Pastor Chuck Church
