We often talk about the importance of having a strong father figure in the house.  But, we don't always talk about what the characteristics of the strong father are. In the parable of the Prodigal Son, we get an incredible picture of what it looks like to be a Strong Dad!  Here are six ways that the Father responds to us so that we can respond the same to our children. 

Unconditional Love: The father's love transcends the son's rebellion. He doesn't withhold affection as punishment.For Dads Today: Show your love consistently, through actions and words. Let your children know they are loved,regardless of their choices.  You don’t have to love their choices, but work hard to love them through their choices. When you see a bad choice make sure to separate them from the choice in your judgement.  “Your choice is ridiculous.” Verses - “you are ridiculous”

Allowed Freewill - The father did not try to stop, redirect, or even threaten his son to change his mind.  He allowed the son to make his own decision. (obviously, we are not recommending this for a young child.  But as our children turn into young adults, we must strongly consider releasing them to their ways. 

Patient Trust vs Aggressive Chase: The father waits patiently rather than running after his son. He trusts that there is going to be good that comes from all of this. He may have felt impatient and wanted God to deliver his son back to him faster, but this is not mentioned in the parable.  For Dads Today: Practice patience. Growth takes time. Trust your children's ability to learn and make amends.

Unending Desire for Restoration: The father never “writes him off”.  He's constantly aware,watching for his return.  For Dads Today: Be observant. Pay attention to your children's subtle cues, their joys and struggles. Be present in their lives.

Unconditional Forgiveness: The father doesn't look at his son and say, “you need to apologize to me before I can forgive you.”   He embraces his son the moment he sees him, demonstrating immense compassion.  For Dads Today: Focus on reconciliation, not punishment. Let forgiveness be a bridge to rebuild the relationship.

Celebrate God’s Work: The father throws a feast, not out of obligation, but out of joy for his son's return. He gives freely, restoring his son's dignity.  For Dads Today: Be generous with your love, time, and resources.Celebrate your children's victories, big and small.

As we continue on with the duty and responsibility to raise the next generation.  Consider how you can be more like the father in the story of the Prodigal Son. 

Luke 15:11-32

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