Fathers Matter: Embracing God's Call and Presence

Summary

This morning, we gathered to reflect on the importance of fathers and the calling God has placed on each of our lives, especially as men, fathers, and grandfathers. Drawing from Isaiah 41:10, we were reminded of God’s powerful promise: “Fear not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” This is not just a comforting phrase, but a commandment and a foundation for how we are to live—without fear, trusting in God’s presence and help.

We acknowledged the real challenges many fathers face, from financial struggles to feelings of inadequacy and the temptation to run from responsibility. The statistics are sobering: so many children grow up without a father present, and the consequences are significant. Yet, the call is clear—fathers matter, and staying matters. Even when we feel we have little to offer, our presence, faithfulness, and willingness to trust God make all the difference. The stories shared—of men who stayed, who trusted God through their doubts, and who saw their children grow and succeed—remind us that God honors faithfulness, not perfection.

We also explored the battle with fear and intimidation. God’s command to “fear not” is a call to trust Him, even when we feel overwhelmed or unworthy. Our past mistakes do not disqualify us from being the fathers, husbands, or men God has called us to be. Through faith, we can overcome doubt, resist the urge to compare ourselves to others, and focus on what truly matters: a relationship with God and faithfulness to our families.

The testimonies and words from children and spouses highlighted that what matters most is not material provision, but love, presence, and spiritual leadership. Our children do not need perfect fathers; they need fathers who are present and who trust God. As we prayed together, we were encouraged to lay aside fear, intimidation, and distraction, and to focus on God’s promise to help, strengthen, and uphold us. With God, we have enough. With God, we can stand, grow, and lead our families in faith.

Key Takeaways

- God’s Command to Fear Not Is Foundational
“Fear not” is not merely a suggestion or a comforting phrase—it is a command from God. Trusting in God’s presence and help is essential, especially when facing the pressures and uncertainties of life. When we obey this command, we honor God and open ourselves to His strength and guidance. [47:55]

- Faithfulness Matters More Than Perfection
Our families do not need us to be perfect; they need us to be present and faithful. Even when we feel inadequate or unable to provide everything, our commitment to stay and trust God has a generational impact. God honors those who remain, even through self-doubt and hardship. [55:40]

- Your Past Does Not Disqualify You from God’s Purpose
No matter what mistakes or failures lie behind us, God’s grace makes us new. The enemy may try to remind us of our past, but God calls us to move forward, trusting that He can use us right now to be the fathers, husbands, and leaders He desires. [58:28]

- Comparison and Intimidation Distract from God’s Calling
It is easy to become discouraged by comparing ourselves to others or by chasing after what the world values. True fulfillment comes from focusing on God’s calling and trusting that, with Him, we have enough. Our children need us, not our possessions or status. [01:15:16]

- A Relationship with God Is the Source of Strength and Direction
Attending church or performing religious duties is not enough; we must cultivate a real relationship with God. When we focus on Him, He provides the strength, wisdom, and help we need to lead our families and overcome life’s challenges. [01:19:17]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:47] - Introduction and Announcements
[03:10] - Honoring Fathers and Their Vision
[07:30] - Reading from Isaiah 41:10
[10:15] - The Command to Fear Not
[15:00] - The Importance of Fathers Staying
[20:45] - Stories of Faithfulness and Doubt
[27:00] - Trusting God Through Hard Times
[34:20] - Overcoming Past Mistakes
[41:00] - Battling Comparison and Intimidation
[47:55] - God’s Command to Trust and Not Fear
[55:40] - Faithfulness Over Perfection
[01:04:54] - Testimonies of God’s Help
[01:15:16] - The Danger of Chasing the Wrong Things
[01:19:17] - The Power of Relationship with God
[01:24:19] - Altar Call and Prayer
[01:38:22] - Offering and Giving
[01:42:00] - Father’s Day Tributes and Testimonies
[02:03:56] - Closing and Final Reflections

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

- Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

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### Observation Questions

1. In Isaiah 41:10, what are the specific promises God makes to those who are afraid or discouraged?
2. According to the sermon, what are some of the real challenges that fathers face today? [03:10]
3. What does the pastor say is the difference between being a father who “stays” and one who “runs away”? [07:30]
4. What did the testimonies from children and spouses highlight as the most important thing fathers can give their families? [01:42:00]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think God commands us to “fear not” instead of just suggesting it? What does this say about God’s expectations for us? [47:55]
2. The sermon says, “Faithfulness matters more than perfection.” Why is faithfulness so important, even when we feel inadequate? [55:40]
3. How does the pastor explain that our past mistakes do not disqualify us from being the fathers, husbands, or leaders God wants us to be? [58:28]
4. What does the sermon say about the dangers of comparing ourselves to others or chasing after what the world values? [01:15:16]

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### Application Questions

1. The command “fear not” is repeated several times in Isaiah 41:10. What is one specific fear or worry you are facing right now? How can you remind yourself of God’s promise this week? [47:55]
2. The pastor shared stories of men who stayed with their families even when it was hard. Is there an area in your life where you are tempted to “run away” or give up? What would it look like to stay and trust God instead? [07:30]
3. When you think about your own family, do you ever feel like you’re not enough or can’t provide everything they want? How can you focus on being present and faithful, rather than perfect? [55:40]
4. The sermon says our past does not disqualify us from God’s purpose. Is there something in your past that still makes you feel unworthy? What would it look like to accept God’s forgiveness and move forward? [58:28]
5. The pastor talked about the danger of comparing ourselves to others—whether it’s their jobs, money, or what they can give their kids. Is there someone you often compare yourself to? How can you shift your focus back to what God has called you to do? [01:15:16]
6. The sermon emphasized that a real relationship with God is the source of strength and direction. What is one step you can take this week to grow your relationship with God—prayer, Bible reading, worship, or something else? [01:19:17]
7. If you are a father, grandfather, or spiritual father, what is one thing you want your children or those you influence to remember about you? How can you start living that out more intentionally this week? [01:42:00]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to help each person trust Him more, to lay aside fear and comparison, and to be faithful in the roles He has given them. Pray for strength, wisdom, and a deeper relationship with God for every family represented.

Devotional

Day 1: Fear Not—God Is With You and Will Help You
No matter what challenges or fears you face, God’s promise is clear: He is with you, and He will help you. Life brings moments of intimidation, self-doubt, and overwhelming responsibility, especially as a parent or leader in your family. But God’s word in Isaiah 41:10 is not just a comfort—it’s a commandment to trust Him and not be afraid. When you feel like running away or giving up, remember that God’s presence is your strength. He will uphold you with His righteous right hand, guiding you through every trial and providing the help you need, even when you feel unworthy or inadequate. [47:55]

Isaiah 41:10-13 (ESV)
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Behold, all who are incensed against you shall be put to shame and confounded; those who strive against you shall be as nothing and shall perish. You shall seek those who contend with you, but you shall not find them; those who war against you shall be as nothing at all. For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.’”

Reflection: What is one fear or worry you are facing today that you need to bring to God, trusting that He is with you and will help you through it?


Day 2: Trust in the Lord With All Your Heart
God calls us to trust Him completely, not relying on our own understanding or past mistakes. When doubts about your worth or your ability to provide for your family arise, remember that God’s word declares you are a new creation in Christ. Your past does not define your future, and God’s faithfulness will see you through every need—whether it’s making rent, caring for your children, or simply staying the course. Trusting God means taking Him at His word, believing that He will guide, provide, and forgive, no matter what others say or what your past holds. [58:28]

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Reflection: In what area of your life are you tempted to rely on your own understanding instead of trusting God fully? How can you surrender that area to Him today?


Day 3: Don’t Be Intimidated—Stay Focused on God’s Path
Feelings of intimidation and comparison can distract you from God’s purpose for your life. When you look at what others have or what you lack, it’s easy to feel small or unworthy. But God reminds us not to be dismayed or distracted by the world’s standards. Your value is not in possessions or status, but in your relationship with the King of kings. Even if you feel like a “worm among giants,” God promises to help you and lift you up. Keep your eyes on Him, and don’t let intimidation or distractions pull you off the path He has set for you. [01:11:52]

Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV)
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”

Reflection: When have you felt intimidated or distracted by comparing yourself to others? What practical step can you take today to refocus your attention on God’s calling for you?


Day 4: Your Family Needs You—Not Perfection, But Presence
Your children and loved ones do not need a perfect parent or provider—they need you, present and committed. The world may tempt you to chase after more money, status, or possessions, but what truly matters is your faithfulness and your willingness to stay. Even if you feel you have little to offer, your presence and your trust in God make all the difference. God can use your faithfulness to bless your family in ways you cannot imagine. Don’t let feelings of inadequacy or the pursuit of worldly things rob your family of the gift of you. [01:15:16]

Psalm 73:16-17 (ESV)
“But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task, until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end.”

Reflection: What is one way you can be more present with your family today, setting aside distractions or feelings of inadequacy to simply be there for them?


Day 5: Build a Real Relationship With God—He Is Enough
At the heart of all your efforts and struggles is the need for a genuine relationship with God. Attending church or doing good things is not enough if you are not connecting with Him personally. God’s promise is that He will uphold you, love you with an everlasting love, and be your refuge. No matter how many times you’ve stumbled or felt unworthy, God invites you to get back up and walk with Him. Focus on what God can do inside you, not on outward appearances or achievements. With God, you have enough—He is your strength, your joy, your protector, and your help. [01:19:17]

Jeremiah 31:3 (ESV)
“The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.”

Reflection: How can you intentionally deepen your relationship with God this week, making time to connect with Him beyond just attending church or going through the motions?

Quotes

I know sometimes people start thinking about their past, all the things that they've done before. And they start getting it all confused in their mind. Like, because of what I did before, I can't be what God's called me to do right now. But the word of God says, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. All things are passed away because all things are become new. [00:58:46] (00:00:22 seconds) Edit Clip

But thank God it's all washed in the blood. Thank God he's changed you. And no matter what they say, God has said, keep on going. You learn to trust in the Lord with all your heart. And he said, let not your heart be troubled. [00:59:54] (00:00:15 seconds) Edit Clip

Doubt allows the fear to control the mind. But faith honors God. Faith will honor God. Doubt causes you to do all kinds of crazy things, but the more you learn to trust in God and not doubt God's word. I know my God is able. Can somebody say God is able? Come on. God is able. He's able to guide. He's able to direct. He's able to protect. He's able to heal when you trust in God and let all the doubt, put it all aside, and you believe in the power of the blood. [01:03:01] (00:00:33 seconds) Edit Clip

But as he looked at the children and the smiles that they had, he realized those kids in the picture, his kids, did not need a perfect dad. They just needed their dad. Are you with me now? They didn't need a perfect dad. They just needed their dad. And that's how it is with us and God. [01:14:55] (00:00:27 seconds) Edit Clip

You've got enough if you've got him. Just slip up your hand right now. God, thank you. I may not have a million dollars. I may not have the best jobs. But I've got you. And you're going to help me, God, with my family. You'll feed my family. You'll protect my family. You'll heal my family. I don't have a lot of things that others may have, but I have you, Jesus. I have you, Jesus. And that's enough. I need somebody to say, that's enough. I need somebody to say, that's enough. You've got Jesus. That's enough. [01:18:13] (00:00:37 seconds) Edit Clip

He said, fear thou not, for I am with thee. Be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee. Yea, I will help thee. This is the promise from a relationship. As long as you learn to trust in Jesus and be what God wants you to be and let God help you to have that relationship. [01:19:07] (00:00:17 seconds) Edit Clip

Maybe this week you have not done the best job of being a dad. Maybe this week, this month, maybe this year you've already stepped back maybe a little more than you should have. But God loves you this morning. Get yourself back up and start walking in the right direction. [01:20:00] (00:00:22 seconds) Edit Clip

God, without you, I can't make it. But with you, I can accomplish all things. Hallelujah. I don't need the world. I don't need all these other things. We just need you, Jesus. Thank you, Lord. You're my healer. Lord God, you're my strength. You're my joy, God. You're my protector. God, I give you praise. Thank you, Lord. Thank you, Jesus. [01:28:40] (00:00:24 seconds) Edit Clip