Father's Day
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Memory Verse
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (NIV)
You have the best dad. I’m not talking about your earthly dad or even your grandfather, uncle, teacher, or family friend (who are like dads), although hopefully they are all great guys, too. Good earthly dads love their kids with every part of themselves. These men look out for their children. They give good gifts and even better hugs. They teach amazing lessons about all sorts of good things. They challenge their kids to live up to their potential and be who God created them to be. But as good as an earthly dad can be, he could never be as great as your heavenly Father.
Earthly dads still make mistakes. Even good dads fail sometimes. They get mad or ignore their children. Even if they have the best intentions, they can still mess up. But your heavenly Father is perfect and never messes up or fails you. Not everyone has a dad or feels their father’s care, but God loves you unconditionally like a father. God your Father is always there for you. He has a perfect plan for your life and will always be with you, encouraging and helping you. And God gave you the greatest gift that you could ever receive. He sent his Son Jesus to live on this earth and to die for our sins so that we would be forgiven. It’s the gift of salvation that God freely gives you. That is a great gift, greater than what any earthly father could ever give.
This week, when you celebrate your earthly father or other good men in your life, remember all the good things he does for you. Treasure those things and thank him for everything he does for you. But also take some time to celebrate your heavenly Father. He is the model that earthly fathers strive for. And he is always there for you no matter what.
Note: If your dad or any other adult makes you feel unsafe or in danger, talk to a trusted adult, like a teacher, a pastor, or a family friend. You can also call 1-800-4-A-CHILD, available 24/7 to provide guidance and support. Your safety is essential, and God loves you very much.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for always being with me. Thank you for the gift of salvation and forgiveness you give me each day. Please help me to live a life that reflects those gifts each day. AMEN.Related Resources
Bret Lamsma
Bret Lamsma is the Director of Faith Formation at First Christian
Reformed Church in Denver, Colorado. He has also served churches in
California and Michigan. He has a passion for youth ministry and
intergenerational ministry in the local church. When he isn’t working at
church or writing he enjoys hanging out with his wife and 2 children,
hiking, woodworking, and watching movies.