Another Fathers’ Day has come around. I have very fond memories of my late father and miss his presence on earth.

For almost five years now, I have also had the immense joy and privilege of being a father myself. But it is a big responsibility, and can be challenging at times. Raising children is not something that should be taken lightly. We should constantly ask ourselves the question “what makes a good Dad?”

The Bible has a lot to say on the subject. Throughout the Scriptures, we see God described as our Father. And He is not like earthly fathers, who, like all human beings, have their weaknesses and flaws. God is the perfect Father. Note some of His wonderful characteristics:

• Compassion -The Lord understands the frailty and mortality of His children, and treats us with kindness (e.g. Psalm 103:13).
• Forgiveness – No matter how far we may stray or how much we may let Him down, God is like a Dad who is constantly scanning the horizon, longing for His child to come back home. Those who acknowledge their sinfulness before Him and trust in Jesus Christ as Saviour are welcomed with open arms. (e.g. Luke 15:11-32)
• Approachability – God is not a distant father, but one to whom we can come confidently and affectionately; our Abba or ‘Daddy’(e.g. Romans 8:15).
• Generosity – God always wants what is best for us, and loves to give good gifts to His children (e.g. Matthew 7:11; James 1:17).

These are great qualities to which to aspire. If we aimed to be even a bit more of all these things, we would certainly see positive outcomes in the lives of our children, families, and the wider community.

So this Fathers’ Day, let us give thanks for the best ‘Dad’ of all, and strive to be more and more like Him, in the power of His Spirit.