MESSAGE DELIVERED BY PASTOR CHARLES OJEI
Text Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
Fathers Deserve to Be Honored
Fathers are not just figures in the family but pillars. They carry weight, they make sacrifices, they lead with strength, and they love in quiet, powerful ways. Their presence in the family cannot be overemphasized.
Fathers deserve honor, respect, love, and appreciation, not just on Father's Day, but every day. Why? Because of the pivotal roles they play in the lives of their children and in holding the family together. When we take time to appreciate fathers, we encourage them to keep going, to give more, and to show up stronger.
Who Is a Father?
A true father is more than a title. His life speaks. His actions teach. His sacrifices pave the way. He is:
A Provider – He works, sacrifices, and ensures that the needs of his family are met.
A Protector – He shields his home, not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.
A Mentor – He teaches, he corrects, he guides with wisdom.
A Covering – A father provides spiritual and emotional covering over his children. His presence brings peace and security.
How Can We Honor Fathers?
Honoring fathers is not just a nice gesture but a godly principle. It’s a seed that brings a harvest of blessings. Here are simple yet powerful ways we can show honor to the fathers in our lives:
Give thoughtful, befitting gifts
This shows that you value who they are, not just what they do. The thought behind the gift matters more than the size.
Speak kind, affirming words
Fathers also need encouragement. Tell them how much they mean to you. Say “thank you.” Speak life over them.
Spend time and create good memories
Time is one of the greatest gifts you can give. Be present. Laugh together. Share stories. Build connection.
Respect their opinions, even when you think you know better
Honor isn’t agreement—it’s about valuing their wisdom and giving them the dignity of being heard.
Celebrate their special days
Don’t let birthdays or Father’s Day go unnoticed. Make it a big deal. Celebrate them intentionally.
A Spiritual Perspective: Honor Unlocks Blessing
> “Those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed.”
— 1 Samuel 2:30
The Power of a Father's Blessing
Read Genesis 49:1–27, and you’ll see Jacob, a father, releasing blessings over his children before he passed. Each blessing was unique. Each was based on the child’s character and relationship with him.
A father's blessing carries:
Power – It can shape the future of a child.
Authority – It comes from a position ordained by God.
Grace – It releases divine enablement.
Anointing – It transfers spiritual covering and favor.
When a father speaks blessing over his children, he is not just talking, he is declaring. And when a declaration flows from a father’s soul, God backs it up. Heaven honors the voice of a father.
Final Words
If you are privileged to have a father today, draw out the blessings locked inside of him by how you relate with him today.
And if you're a father reading this, may you be encouraged. You matter. You are seen. You are valuable. Keep standing. Keep leading. Keep loving. Your reward is sure.
Let this season be one where we don’t just celebrate fathers but honor them deeply. Because in honoring them, we open the doors to generational blessings.