This Father’s Day, as we gather our thoughts on this third Sunday in June, let’s turn to the Word of God and consider the important role of fathers.

The Bible has so much to say about this, and it’s timely for us here in Scotland and across the UK.

The Origins of Father’s Day

Now, folks, Father’s Day as we observe it didn’t come from ancient tradition or religious ritual, it began in the United States back in 1910.

A young woman named Sonora Smart Dodd wanted to honour her father, who had raised her and her siblings alone after losing her mother.

Inspired by a Mother’s Day service in church, she approached the local pastors. The first celebrations took place in churches with simple sermons and expressions of gratitude on June 19th of that year. Over time the idea spread, and here in the UK we mark it on the third Sunday of June.

It’s not commanded in Scripture, but it gives us a wonderful opportunity to do what God’s Word already tells us: “Honour your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12, NKJV).

The Importance of Fathers – Biblical Truth and UK Reality

The Lord has always placed great importance on fathers. In the Old Testament we see the call for dads to teach their children the ways of the Lord. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 tells us to have God’s words in our hearts and to impress them on our children, talking of them when we sit at home, walk along the road, lie down, and rise up.

In the New Testament, Paul gives clear instruction: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4, NKJV). God Himself is our perfect example as Father.

Here in Scotland and the UK we face real challenges. Many households with children are single-parent families. Studies show that when fathers are absent, children often face greater difficulties, higher risks of poverty, behavioural struggles, and other problems. But when dads are present, involved, and walking with the Lord, it brings stability, security, and blessing. This is not just statistics; it’s the outworking of God’s design for the family.

A Word to Dads in the Trenches

I know many of you brothers are carrying heavy loads. Some are caring for adult children with disabilities like me, with little respite and great demands. Your home may feel like a place of constant caregiving. Folks, the Lord sees your labour of love. He knows the sacrifices you make day after day.

Even when strong role models seem scarce in parts of the church here in Scotland, we have the unchanging Word of God and the example of faithful men who have taught the Scriptures simply and clearly.

Stay close to Jesus. Lead your family in the Word. Pray with them. Model a life of dependence on the Holy Spirit.

And if you grew up without a good father, or your relationship is strained, remember this: “When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up” (Psalm 27:10, NKJV). Our Heavenly Father never fails.

Practical Ways to Honour Fathers This Weekend

This Father’s Day, take time to express gratitude. A kind word, a note of thanks, or a simple prayer can mean so much.

In your church or home, share how God has worked through fathers. Open the Bible together, perhaps Ephesians chapters 5 and 6, or the wisdom of Proverbs.

Pray for the fathers among us: that they would rise up in strength, that broken families would find healing in Christ, and that the next generation would know the Lord.

Closing Encouragement

Father’s Day is not about perfection. None of us are perfect fathers. But it is a day to remember God’s grace and to point one another to our perfect Heavenly Father. Through Jesus Christ we are brought into God’s family.

Let us recommit ourselves this day to biblical fatherhood right here in Scotland and the UK. The need is great, but our God is greater. “Children’s children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children is their father” (Proverbs 17:6, NKJV).

A Personal Invitation

If you’re a father in the Helensburgh, Balloch, Dumbarton, or Glasgow areas who is caring for children with additional needs or disabilities, and you’d like some real fellowship and biblical encouragement, I’d love to meet up for a coffee.

Fatherhood can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you’re carrying heavy responsibilities with little respite. There’s great strength in gathering with other dads who understand and who want to encourage one another in the Lord.

Drop me a message through the website or church contact, and we’ll arrange something simple and relaxed.

Let’s strengthen one another as we walk this journey together in Christ.

May the Lord bless you and strengthen you as you walk with Him. Happy Father’s Day,