In honor of Father’s Day, many of my Facebook friends have been changing their profile pictures this weekend to photos of their dads. I love to see all of the precious pictures of dads—some who are still with us and some who have gone on to heaven. There’s nothing quite like a father.

If you pay much attention to popular television shows, you have probably noticed that dads (and men, in general) are more often than not portrayed as bumbling idiots. They are shown as dumb, lazy, out of touch, and even unfaithful. I despise the message that this sends to a generation of young people who, maybe more than any other generation, desperately needs to see hard-working providers. They need to see men who stick around, in spite of the difficulties, because that’s what dads and husbands do. They need to see men who are strong and brave and who protect their loved ones from harm. They need to see godly fathers.

I’ve often heard that people subconsciously equate God with their earthly fathers. If one grew up with a harsh, overbearing father, he or she might fear God and feel as though He isn’t ever satisfied or accessible. One who grew up without a father in the home might have an emotional disconnect when it comes to having a relationship with the Heavenly Father. One who had a good relationship with his earthly father will be inclined to have a healthy and accurate view of God, the Father. Fathers have unspeakable potential to lead their children closer to the Lord or, sadly, in the opposite direction.

Maybe every “Daddy’s girl” thinks this way, but I’m convinced that I have the best dad anyone could ever hope for. He’s always “been there” for me; my biggest cheerleader. He led me to the Lord when I was young. He is my counselor, my advisor, my helper when I need him. He’s my rock, and I’m thankful beyond words for him.

And then there’s my husband, the father of my children. He is a faithful provider, the spiritual leader of our family, planner of fun activities, our homeschool math instructor, inventor of crazy songs, and my soul mate. He is teaching our boys to be men who will work hard to provide, to defend their families bravely, and to lead in godliness.

Scripture gives us an idea of what makes a good dad:

“My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” Proverbs 3:11-12

“He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.” Proverbs 14:26

“For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.” 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

“Which of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 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 things to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:9-11

“These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:6-9

Do you see how important dads are? They weren’t just an afterthought or a means to help populate the earth. They are vitally important to the health of our children, families, and therefore communities and nation and world. Thank you, godly dads, for doing your part, for being Jesus with skin on to your families. Thank you, Dad and Trevor, for the impact you are leaving on my children. Thank you, Lord, for your awesome design for families.

Happy Father’s Day, dads! We celebrate you today and always. 🙂