Lessons From Biblical Fathers for Today’s Dads
Fatherhood is easily one of the most rewarding—and challenging—roles I’ve ever stepped into. My wife and I are blessed with two incredible young men, now 16 and 12, and raising them in a world that is ever-changing has been a journey in itself. Like many dads, I often find myself listening to podcasts, messages, or searching for guidance that goes beyond today’s shifting cultural norms.
The Bible, though ancient, is full of examples that offer wisdom we can still apply today. Two powerful ones come from Joash—the father of Gideon—and the father in Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son, who demonstrated unwavering love and forgiveness. Their journeys may have been different, but their lessons are deeply relevant for modern fathers.
Joash: A Father Who Defended, Changed, and Empowered His Son
Back in May, my oldest son and I had the opportunity to attend a men’s retreat—or, as our church likes to call it, a Men’s Advance—because, let’s be honest, real men don’t retreat… we advance!
On opening day, the keynote speaker, Dr. Chuck, shared a story from the book of Judges. Now, when most of us think about that section of Scripture, we immediately recall Gideon and his epic victory over Israel’s oppressors with only 300 men. But there’s much more to the story. That night, Dr. Chuck spoke about Joash—Gideon’s father—and the power of legacy, highlighting how fatherhood isn’t just about providing. It’s about standing up, adapting, and empowering your kids to step into their purpose. Joash may not be the most talked-about father in the Bible, but his actions reveal powerful lessons for dads today.
Standing Up for Your Child
When Gideon tore down his father’s altar to Baal, he wasn’t just making a personal decision—he was directly challenging the deeply ingrained religious beliefs of his community. The townspeople were outraged, seeing his actions as not only disrespectful but also dangerous. In their minds, Gideon had insulted their deity, and the only way to restore balance was through his execution.
Joash, as Gideon’s father, was placed in an incredibly difficult position. He could have given in to fear, pressured by the overwhelming outrage of the people. But instead, he made a decisive choice—to stand in defense of his son. With wisdom and courage, Joash turned the people’s anger into a moment of reflection, saying, “If Baal really is a god, let him defend himself.” Judges 6:31
His statement carried profound implications: if Baal had real power, he wouldn’t need humans to fight on his behalf. This reasoning not only spared Gideon’s life but also sowed seeds of doubt among the people regarding their devotion to an idol that had no ability to act.
Lesson for dads today:
As a father, there will be times when our children take a bold stand—for their beliefs, their values, or simply for justice. Sometimes their stance will challenge social and cultural norms, or even the traditions we uphold. In those moments, our response is critical. Will we waver under pressure, or will we stand beside them with conviction?
Some of the greatest leaders and visionaries are often met with resistance when they challenge the status quo. Gideon’s story started with one act of defiance, but it was his father’s defense that ensured he lived to fulfill his destiny. Likewise, our encouragement and protection could make all the difference in shaping our children into all God has called them to be.
Gideon went on to become a mighty warrior and deliverer of Israel, but his journey started with one act of courage. Joash’s defense of his son ensured that Gideon would live to fulfill his purpose.
The Prodigal Son: Love That Never Gives Up
At our church, we often sing a song called One Thing Remains by Passion. One of its most powerful lyrics declares:
“Your love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on me.”
This line beautifully reflects the heart of the father in Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son In Luke 15. The story isn’t just about a wayward child returning home—it’s about a father whose love remains unshaken despite rejection. Unlike human love, which falters, runs dry, and can be exhausted by disappointment, the father’s love in this story never fades.
The contrast is striking. The prodigal son walked away, gave up, and ran out of love and loyalty. He demanded his inheritance early, abandoned his home, and wasted everything on reckless living. Eventually, desperation forced him into servitude, feeding pigs just to survive. In that broken state, he finally decided to return— not expecting love or restoration, but merely hoping for the position of a servant.
Yet the father’s love remained constant. He had never given up, never turned away, never stopped waiting. The moment he saw his son in the distance, he ran to him—not with anger, but with overwhelming compassion. His love didn’t wait for an apology, nor did it require repayment. It reached out, embraced, and restored.
That’s the kind of love Jesus has for us: a love that never fails, never gives up, and never runs out. No matter how far we’ve wandered, no matter how much we think we’ve exhausted His grace, His arms remain open. His love is always running toward us, just as the father ran toward his son.
Lesson for dads today:
Unconditional love is key. Our kids mess up; they make bad choices. But being a father isn’t about keeping score—it’s about always making sure they know they have a place to come home to. No matter how far they wander, they should never question whether they’re still loved.
A father’s role isn’t to withhold love as punishment but to offer it as a foundation—reminding his children that grace, forgiveness, and belonging are always within reach.
Grace goes a long way. The father in the story could have lectured his son, told him “I told you so,” but instead, he chose to restore him. Sometimes, a kid just needs to know they’re still loved—no matter what.
Joash and the Prodigal Son’s father show us that being a dad isn’t just about authority—it’s about love, protection, and unwavering belief in our children. Joash defended Gideon’s purpose, while the Prodigal Son’s father embraced his child despite failure.
Both remind us that mistakes don’t define a child—but a father’s response does. Whether helping them step into their calling or welcoming them home, a father’s love should never fail, never give up, and never run out.