When you think of a father figure what comes to mind? Someone who is a role model or an outstanding person? Maybe you think of your dad or coach or other mentors in your life? Fathers and father figures are an essential part of families and communities without them it would be very difficult.
Who are some examples of father figures? My dad definitely is a role model and father figure. He supported me through high school in all my sports including but not limited to: Soccer, Cross Country, and Track and Field.
Other famous examples would be people like Tony Dungy. As a Christian and soft-spoken head coach for the Indianapolis Colts coach Dungy led by example and because of his leadership and high character ended up winning a Super Bowl with quarterback legend Peyton Manning. He also stressed to his players the importance of being a good father or father figure.
Coach Dungy has a strong and unwavering faith. Even though his son committed suicide he did not walk away from football or God. That is definitely the hardest part of being a father and or father figure is when things don’t go the way you had planned and tragedy hits.
The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will be glad in him. Proverbs 23:24.
Father’s also play a huge role in their children’s lives as well as those they mentor.
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. Psalms 127:3-5 ESV.
Another example would be Dabo Sweeney the head coach of Clemson. He always put his team first and always backs them up and supports them. He also has a great coaching staff with Christians. Coach Sweeney is a leader and father figure and leads by example for his players and school.
Not only do we have Tony Dungy and Dabo Sweeney but also Philadelphia Eagle’s head coach Doug Pederson. Like Dabo Pederson has many Christian coaches and players, including his quarterback Carson Wentz who is an outspoken Christian as well. Both coaches have won 1 or 2 titles and have a great platform to share Christ.
Now, what happens if these father figures go away? Who do we turn to then? When father figures and leaders disappoint? Let us down? Fortunately for you, there is an answer to that very question.
God is the ultimate father figure. When people let you down God will never in a thousand years disappoint you. All in all, He is the reason we even have father figures! If we take God out of the role or equation, we are left without godly leaders but… God is ever-present, we do not have to worry about God ever leaving us.
Deuteronomy 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them for the LORD you God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
While people and father figures will let you down. God will never give up on you, will never quit will never let go, will never disappoint because He is God! Does that mean bad things don’t happen? Does that mean things we thought were meant to be won’t fall apart sometimes? Of course not! We live in a fallen world and things will happen to you that you thought were unimaginable…
In conclusion, God is a good God. His ways are higher than our ways. Maybe He doesn’t answer the way you would like but like a father figure, He will say yes, no, maybe, or wait. Remember that above all else Christ will reign supreme and God is the ultimate father figure.
