"Empowered Dads" | June 15, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

In a world that often downplays the importance of fathers, it's crucial to recognize and celebrate the vital role that dads play in shaping families, communities, and society as a whole. Fatherhood is not just a responsibility; it's a high calling and a divine assignment. God's plan for fathers goes far beyond being mere providers or disciplinarians – they are called to be catalysts of His presence in their homes and builders of lasting legacies.

The journey of fatherhood can be simultaneously joyous, frustrating, and fulfilling. Many dads often feel like they're "winging it," unsure if they're making the right decisions or responding appropriately to the challenges that arise. But here's the good news: God never intended fathers to navigate this path alone. He has given us the Holy Spirit as our helper, comforter, and source of strength.

So what does it mean to be a Spirit-led father? Let's explore three key aspects that can transform your approach to parenting and help you build a legacy that will echo through generations.

1. Boldness to Lead

When the Holy Spirit fills us, one of the first qualities we see is boldness. In Acts 4:31, we read about the disciples being filled with the Holy Spirit and preaching the word of God with boldness. As fathers, we need this same boldness – not to control or bully, but to lead through conviction and love.

Spirit-led boldness empowers fathers to show up in difficult moments, to have hard conversations, and to guide their families with wisdom and grace. It's about leading with love, not just volume. This kind of leadership provides a foundation for children to build their lives upon, even in the midst of life's storms.

2. Calm in Chaos

Parenting often feels like navigating through constant chaos. Whether it's dealing with young children's antics or teenagers' life-altering decisions, fathers need the ability to stay calm when everything around them seems to be falling apart.

In Acts 16:25, we see Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns to God while imprisoned – a perfect example of remaining calm in the face of adversity. As Spirit-led fathers, we're called to carry peace into every situation, to be thermostats rather than thermometers – changing the temperature of the room instead of merely reflecting it.

This calm demeanor stems from the fruit of the Spirit described in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. By focusing on Jesus and His goodness, even in challenging moments, we can bring these qualities into our homes and model them for our children.

3. Legacy Building

Spirit-led fathers understand that they're not just raising children; they're building a legacy. This perspective shifts our focus from merely addressing today's needs to shaping tomorrow's leaders. As Peter proclaimed in Acts 2:38-39, the promise of the Holy Spirit is "for you and your children and for all who are far off."

Building a legacy means planting seeds of faith, hope, and purpose that may not bear fruit in our lifetime. It's about impressing God's commands on our children's hearts, as instructed in Deuteronomy 6:6-7. This requires more than just a weekly church attendance; it demands consistent, intentional spiritual leadership in the home.

As we build this legacy, we're not aiming for perfection. Rather, we're called to be Spirit-empowered fathers who are bold in leadership, calm in chaos, and focused on leaving a lasting impact.

Practical Steps for Spirit-Led Fatherhood

1. Cultivate a personal relationship with God: Your children's view of God will be significantly influenced by their relationship with you. Take time to nurture your own spiritual growth through prayer, Bible study, and worship.

2. Memorize Scripture: In moments of stress or conflict, having God's Word hidden in your heart can provide the wisdom and peace you need. Choose verses that focus on God's goodness and faithfulness.

3. Model humility: When you make mistakes (and you will), be quick to apologize and ask for forgiveness. This teaches your children the importance of owning their actions and seeking reconciliation.

4. Create spaces for spiritual conversations: Look for opportunities to discuss faith, values, and life's big questions with your children. These don't always have to be formal "sit-down" talks; often, the best conversations happen during everyday activities.

5. Involve your children in serving others: Demonstrate that faith isn't just about personal growth but also about making a positive impact on the world around us.

6. Pray with and for your children: Let them hear you bringing their concerns, dreams, and challenges before God. This reinforces the reality of God's presence in their lives.

7. Celebrate spiritual milestones: Whether it's a baptism, a mission trip, or an act of faith, take time to acknowledge and commemorate your children's spiritual journey.

Remember, the goal isn't to be a perfect father, but to be a Spirit-led one. By embracing the Holy Spirit's guidance, you can lead with boldness, remain calm in chaos, and build a legacy that will impact generations to come.

As you navigate the joys and challenges of fatherhood, take comfort in knowing that you're not alone. God has equipped you with His Spirit to be the father your children need. So step into your calling with confidence, knowing that as you rely on Him, you're shaping not just your children's lives, but the future of your family and community.

May your journey of fatherhood be filled with moments of joy, growth, and deep connection – both with your children and with the Father who entrusted them to your care.