They need diligence and constancy to do all God has called them to do. Their families need them to be strong and loving providers. This Father's Day, pray for the fathers around you - brothers, neighbors, co-workers, and friends. Lift each father to the Lord so he can be for his family all the Lord created him to be.
1. Pray for his walk with the Lord. A man needs to be grounded in the Word and lean on the Lord, allowing Him to direct his steps. Pray that he has a strong prayer life and turns to God for strength to live the way he should. "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT)
2. Pray for his relationship with his wife. Pray that he cherishes her and encourages her in all she does for their family. As his relationship with his wife flourishes, he will set an example for his son about how to treat his wife someday. He will show his daughter that she deserves love, respect, and other qualities she should look for in a husband.
3. Pray that he fulfills his role as the spiritual leader of his home. A father needs to exemplify faith, patience, a consistent prayer life, and self-control for his children. He needs to go before the Lord regularly for his own needs and those of his family. The family members of a dedicated spiritual leader feel supported, secure, and encouraged. "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect." 1 Timothy 3:4 (NIV)
4. Pray for his friendships. A man needs godly men in his life for accountability and stability. He needs to allow his godly friends to speak into his life, and in turn, he will encourage and edify them on their path through life. Pray that he can keep away from "friends" who would steer him off course. "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." Proverbs 27:17 (NLT)
5. Pray for integrity in all his dealings. As a man handles matters in life, his children look on, learning how to act in different situations. They learn about ethics and morality from him. Pray that this man is honest and dependable with a good work ethic. "The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them." Proverbs 20:7 (NLT)
6. Pray that he is open and loving with his children. Dad should be spending time with the family discussing life, feelings, and spiritual matters. The children should learn that there are times to be serious and silly. The family should have fun together, planning outings and times at home that are uplifting and enjoyable. "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by how you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord." Ephesians 6:4 (NLT)
7. Pray for his health. As the provider for his family, the father needs to be healthy and able to work steadily. Pray that he keeps himself in good condition mentally, physically, and spiritually.
8. Pray for business success. Pray that he is proficient in his field and gets paid for his work accordingly. Keep the company he works for in your prayers, that it thrives, enabling him to remain employed.
9. Pray for his self-image. Voices are clamoring all around him from work, home, society, and media, telling him who he ought to be and what he should be doing. Pray that he hears God's voice above the din, giving him clear guidance on who he is and where he belongs. "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 (NIV)
10. Pray for his identity. As a man moves through life, he needs friends to turn to and activities to enjoy that aren't necessarily part of his family or work life. Every man needs hobbies and interests to enjoy that relax and refresh him, so he is, once again, ready to face the many demands of life.
11. Pray that he can resist temptation. Men are tempted from all sides in many ways. Pray that he is not tempted by pornography, extramarital affairs, pride, glory, greed, or any other ways modern men are drawn to live out anything but God's best for them. "The temptations in your life are not different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NLT)
12. Pray for his priorities. Between work, family, friends, and other obligations, a man will often feel pulled in many directions at once. Pray that he keeps a good life balance, spending appropriate time at work, with his family, and in other activities.
This Father's Day, keep the men in your life in your prayers. As they care for their families and choose how to spend their time, pray that they stay connected to God, who will direct them and provide for all their needs. This is a Father's Day gift he can use.
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