A pastor once said, “God doesn’t want a better version of you, He wants you to be more like Jesus.” True transformation is God’s hope for us. He wants believers to reflect the character of Jesus rather than improving or whitewashing the old self. How then does this apply to the role of Fatherhood?
Fatherhood is the ultimate expression of Jesus’ character (love). It translates into…hoping, obeying, glorifying, and sacrificing (H.O.G.S). A great acrostic for your prayer life and perhaps worthy of a sticky note on your bathroom mirror (especially if you are an Arkansas alumnus).
Recently, I told my daughter (who is awesome, but I’m biased) that she has an Everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6) in Jesus. I’m just an earthly dad (more of a coach), who has done his best to model, champion, and nurture her faith walk. As an earthly dad, my time is finite while her Eternal Dad will be with her infinitely and love on her, care for her, and unfold the plans He has for her. As Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us,
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
As earthly dads, we can strive to be more like Jesus and practice four foundational elements daily. It is a regular cadence that models Christ’s character for our children and grandchildren. And if you miss some days, don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s a marathon and not a sprint. Here is a framework for modeling the character of Christ as a dad incorporating H.O.G.S.
HOPING
As fathers, our hope focuses on God’s character and Word instead of situational difficulties. During times of uncertainty and suffering fathers remain steadfast and anchored in God’s promises. The resurrection is the pinnacle of hope, and through it, we are assured of our victory.
- Praying constantly (Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Colossians 4:2)
- Studying Scripture (2 Timothy 2:15; Proverbs 3:5-6; Joshua 1:8)
- Worshiping & thanksgiving (Psalm 100:4-5; 1 Chronicles 16:34; Philippians 4:6-7)
OBEYING
Jesus mastered obedience through His submission to the cross for our transgressions. He obeyed the Father, even though it involved suffering and death. As Christ-followers, we have been redeemed—Amen! This redemption transforms us, inspiring obedience and a profound love for the Father who first loved us.
- Humbly serve and love others (Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 4:10; Mark 10:45)
- Transformational redemption (Ezekiel 36:26-27; Galatians 2:20; Titus 2:11-12)
- Joyfully keep His commands (1 John 5:3; Romans 7:22; Psalm 119:14,47)
GLORIFYING
As fathers, we should strive to do everything for the glory of God—a mindset that is completely upside down to how the world thinks. Why did God create us? To express His glory; we were made to exalt Him. As dads, our ultimate purpose is to reflect God’s character and live a life of worship and exaltation in the workplace, at home, and when no one is looking.
- Giving glory (1 Corinthians 10:31; Matthew 5:16; Romans 15:6)
- It’s not about me (Psalm 115:1; Galatians 2:20; John 3:30)
- Only You are worthy Lord (Revelation 4:11, 5:2-5, 15:4)
SACRIFICING
Foundationally, sacrifice is a twofold calling for fathers. We are called to sacrifice for our children and for our wives as well (Ephesians 5:25). Father’s Day can’t come soon enough (June 20th). Dad’s remember the Apostle Paul’s charge, “living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God” (Romans 12:1). We are to surrender our personal desires to follow God’s will.
- Spend time instructing and training (Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4; Luke 6:40)
- Family sacrifice (1 Timothy 5:8)
- Leaving a legacy (Proverbs 20:7; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 78:4)
Amen. And Happy Father’s Day!