One of the most difficult things a person can experience is growing up without a father's love or approval. Without that supportive presence, a person may feel disconnected from God. Dr. Stanley discusses how you can have a fulfilling relationship with your children and be the type of father God intended you to be.
Sermon Outline
The relationship between an earthly father and his child has long-ranging effects, for better or for worse. In today’s sermon, Dr. Stanley explores this dynamic and offers practical steps for building bridges between men and their children.
Key Passage: 2 Samuel 14:28-33
Supporting Passage: Proverbs 22:6
What would you say are the most important words you can ever hear from your father?
► “When children have a strong emotional connection with their father, it is easier for them to trust God.”
Children’s view of their father can influence their view of God. When fathers are …
Moody and unpredictable, children might think they can’t count on God.
Critical and judgmental, children might believe God is a hard taskmaster.
Shaming and demanding, children can feel pleasing God is hopeless.
Passive and uninvolved, children can assume God doesn’t care about their life.
Emotionally distant, children might believe God isn’t interested in what brings them joy or pain.
Before judging children or fathers:
Ask yourself what’s happening inside the mind and heart of children who behave badly.
;Kids who act out may be responding to past hurts, not simply rebelling.
Fathers pass on what they’ve experienced in their own childhood, good or bad. It’s up to each one of us to change an unhealthy pattern.
► “Let your child know how much you love him or her—and that you care. Loving is always the right thing.”
Fathers, to build (or strengthen) the connection with your children, take the initiative:
Express love verbally—Even if you already say it often, keep saying it. Your children need to hear it regularly.
Discover how each child receives love—Every child is different (Prov. 22:6). Some need affirming words; others need quality time, acts of service, gifts, or reassuring touch.
Be transparent—Share your struggles and admit your faults. Being honest with others builds trust.
Pursue fellowship—Make time for meaningful conversation.
Ask for God’s help—Pray and ask the Lord to show you how to connect well with your children.
Believe you will succeed—God is a Father who works to connect with His children. He is on your side and will help you.
If you’re healing a broken relationship, be prepared for setbacks—Rebuilding trust is a process that requires patience and persistence.
Work on yourself—To be a godly example to your children, you must first be connected to God through Jesus Christ.
After Watching
Fathers, which of the ways to strengthen a relationship resonates most with where you are right now? Pick one to focus on—whether it’s expressing love more freely, pursuing deeper conversation, or something else—and ask God to help you put it into practice.
Dr. Stanley reminds us that father wounds run deep and patterns span generations. Write a letter to your father (or to yourself as a father) that you won’t send. Be honest about what’s been hard and then extend grace—acknowledging the brokenness your father carried or the grace you need as an imperfect parent. Keep this letter as a prayer, asking God to do what only He can do.
