What happens when someone who grew up without a father becomes a father figure to many? In this powerful conversation with Bob Brennan, we discover how wounds can transform into ministry and brokenness into blessing.

Bob's journey begins with a childhood marked by an alcoholic, absent father who eventually passed away when Bob was just 15 years old. This absence created a void that affected not only his understanding of earthly fatherhood but also his perception of God as Father. For decades, Bob struggled to experience God as present and loving, maintaining a distant relationship much like the one he had with his own father.

Today, Bob serves as an elementary school principal who knows children by name, gets down on the floor with kindergartners, and shows compassion to students struggling emotionally. At church, he mentors young men, creating safe spaces for them to be authentic and heard. With his four daughters, he demonstrates the unconditional love he wishes he had received as a child.

What's particularly striking about Bob's story is his approach to spiritual fathering. Rather than focusing on behavior modification, he prays specifically for aspects of the fruit of the Spirit that each person needs to develop. He remains patient with God's timing, understanding that his role is to love consistently while God does the transforming work.

For anyone feeling discouraged about children who have wandered from faith or struggling with their own father wounds, Bob offers this wisdom: love unconditionally without condoning harmful behaviors, be patient, and recognize that ultimately, we are not God. When we release our need to control outcomes and trust God's perfect timing, we find freedom and peace in our role as spiritual fathers and mothers.

Want to experience more of this kind of spiritual encouragement? Join us at Rooted and Resilient in Charlotte this October. Register today at thefathersbusiness.com and discover how you too can find healing and become a source of blessing to others.