The earliest concept of God for a child is greatly impacted by the relationship she has with her own father.  Fathers in the Bible were the supreme authoritative figures in their families.  With but a word they could determine the fate of their offspring.  In contrast to this autocratic image of fatherhood, Paul’s advice to fathers emphasises patience (Eph. 6.4).  The father Jesus describes, just as the heavenly Father, loves unconditionally, forgives without strings attached, and gives abundantly (Luke 15:11-32).

Still, Scripture presents a tender side of fatherhood.  A temple official came to Jesus frantic for his daughter’s healing (Matt. 9:18-26); Jacob and David displayed deep sorrow at the loss of their sons (Gen. 37:33-35; 2 Sam. 13:35-39); both Noah and Joseph (the father of Jesus) followed God’s direction and provided escapes from danger for their children (Gen. 7:5; Matt. 2:13-23).  Biblical fathers were not perfect; they made mistakes.  Eli did not set boundaries for his sons (2 Sam. 2:12; 3:13); David did not spend much time with his sons, nor did he live an exemplary life before them (2 Sam. 12:13, 14; 24:10).  The best earthly father is one who has a vibrant fellowship with the heavenly Father and thus has access to the Lord’s unlimited wisdom and vast resources (Eph. 5:15-16).

A mother helps to fashion a good father.  She makes him feel loved and accepted, treating him with respect. She shows respect for his position of leadership.  She does not undermine his authority.  She offers encouragement, reflective interaction, and supportive interest.

“A MOTHER HELPS TO FASHION A GOOD FATHER….
SHE OFFERS ENCOURAGEMENT, REFLECTIVE INTERACTION, AND SUPPORTIVE INTEREST.”

Fathers certainly are reminded of the importance of making their children feel wanted (Ps. 127:3-5).  Fathers are to instruct their children (Deut. 6:19; Prov. 4:16-20), train them (Ps. 78:5-7; Prov. 22:6), and correct them (Prov. 13:24).  The shelter and security provided by a godly father should give freedom for growth without over-protection from challenges or tasks that teach responsibility (1 Sam. 3:1-10).