Dear Northside
Fathers’ Day is upon us. I appreciate Randy Alcorn’s writings and he writes about fatherhood and grandfatherhood.
Fatherhood and grandfatherhood as a sacred privilege and calling that should never be taken for granted. Though demanding and often exhausting, parenting is an investment of eternal significance. The sacrifices required are small compared to what God has done for us, and fathers are reminded to remain grateful, even in difficult seasons. Parenthood is not merely one responsibility among many—it is central, shaping lives and leaving a legacy that extends far beyond one’s lifetime.
There is no substitute for giving children undivided attention, and missed opportunities cannot be recovered. Many regret prioritizing work or trivial pursuits over their children. Alongside time with family, fathers must prioritize time with God in prayer and Scripture, which aligns their lives with eternal priorities and strengthens their role as leaders in the home.
Fatherhood is meant to reflect God’s own fatherhood. Earthly fathers represent Him to their children, and their example can shape how children view God. Therefore, fathers carry both a privilege and a responsibility to live in a way that draws their children toward a relationship with Him.
Fathers should read to their children, helping them develop a love for learning and for God’s Word, while limiting distractions such as excessive television. They must teach gratitude in a culture of entitlement, modelling thankfulness and stewardship themselves. Children learn far more from what parents do than from what they say.
Equally important is modelling humility and grace. Fathers should confess their sins openly and ask forgiveness, demonstrating repentance. They should teach generosity by involving children in giving, helping them understand that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Parenting also requires a balance of truth and grace—discipline without harshness and love without compromise—so children grow with both guidance and compassion.
Guard against the “tyranny of the urgent,” where less important demands crowd out what truly matters. Even small daily choices can shape a child’s life. Cultivating a strong marriage is important, as loving one’s spouse is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give their children. Integrity is essential as well; moral failure can damage a family and its spiritual legacy.
Here are a series of key exhortations for fathers and grandfathers.
- Fear God so that your children may be blessed. A life rooted in reverence for God shapes a legacy of blessing for the next generation.
- Give children what they need—not just what they want. Loving discipline and guidance teach self-control and wisdom, even when it means saying no.
- Never give up on your children. Even in seasons of rebellion or struggle, God is able to change hearts, and hope should never be abandoned.
- Pray faithfully for your children. Prayer is not a last resort but the most powerful and essential work a father can do.
- Cultivate and protect your marriage. Loving your spouse well creates stability and security for your children and strengthens the entire family.
- Guard your moral integrity. Be vigilant against temptation, recognizing that personal holiness protects both your family and your spiritual legacy.
- Focus on a lasting spiritual heritage, not just material inheritance. Faithfulness over time builds an eternal legacy that far outweighs financial provision.
- Live for God’s approval above all else. Fatherhood is a calling entrusted by God, and true success is hearing Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
- Depend on Christ for everything. Lasting impact comes not from human effort but from God’s power working through a faithful life.