Today is all about dads.
Their role is a serious one, filled with decisions, responsibilities, obligations, time constraints, duties, and a host of other things that make up their daily routines. But at the forefront of all those fatherly duties is the love and investment they have in their children.
“A righteous man who walks in his integrity. How blessed are his children after him.” Proverbs 20:7
Family situations vary for sure. Some of us no longer have our earthly fathers, but we celebrate our husbands and their roles as dads. Others celebrate this special day with a step-father, an adoptive father, an uncle, or maybe a family friend. But regardless of who you’re celebrating with, show him he is loved and a gift from God.
“As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;” Psalm 103:13
~ 5 Ways to show dads they are loved and appreciated ~
- Pray for him. Nothing is more meaningful than praying for your special dad. Cover him in God’s protection and grace. Sometimes dads have a lot on their plates and they need all the encouragement and support we can give them.
- Spend time with him. The older we get, the busier we get. So carving out some special one on one time takes some planning. But dad is so worth it. Maybe it’s as simple as catching a movie together or going fishing together. Whatever it is, the time is more special because you made it happen.
- Tell him ‘thank you.’ Dads have a tough job. Their decisions are not always popular or appreciated, but they are necessary. A dad’s number one concern is keeping their child (big or little) safe, not to mention all the things they did for you.
- Do something nice for him. My sweet man loves a good meal and dessert. Father’s Day has never been about buying him stuff. Oh sure, he likes the occasional Lowe’s gift card or new shirt, but for the most part, it’s about spending time with him. It’s okay to keep it simple.
- Keep the communication lines open. This is not always easy, but talk to him. Let him know you value his advice and appreciate his perspective on things. Honesty and transparency are key to healthy relationships.
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6
Happy Father’s Day!
P.S. As a special bonus I want you to check out this post by my friend, Sheila Qualls, on how to write a heartfelt father’s day letter he’ll never forget. Maybe this will be a new tradition for you.
Blessings & Hugs to you in the week ahead.
Like other holidays, we can get caught up in commercialism and forget the real reason we celebrate. Thank you for the reminders of the importance of fathers. We love and appreciate fathers because they pore over our children, sometimes at the expense of their own interests and desires. Thank you for the helpful ways we can love and appreciate them.