The diaries of the family of a famous politician from the 18th Century were discovered.
In one of the entries, a father and his son went on a fishing trip and wrote their experience in their diaries.
For that day’s entry, the father wrote: “Went fishing with my son, a day wasted.”
For that same day’s entry, the son wrote: “Went fishing with my father today, the most glorious day of my life.”
This striking contrast reveals a profound truth.
The Role of a Father extends far beyond Biology.
Becoming a father is often grounded in a biological role. He is the male who contributes genetic material (sperm) that combines with an egg to create children.
But as time goes on, the role of fatherhood then extends to adoptive, or social responsibility for raising and caring for a child.
This means there are different types of fathers.
Biological fathers, adoptive fathers, stepfathers, foster fathers, spiritual fathers. At the heart of these roles lies the profound original model: The Father Figure.
Becoming, or having, a father figure… This is where the real work is.
And I will explain why.
Who is a Father Figure?
A Father Figure represent the original image of fatherhood that transcends biological connection.
They embody the fundamental qualities and roles that define true paternal guidance. Father figures protect and provide not just physically, but emotionally and psychologically.
They embody mentorship, helping younger ones navigate life’s complexities through direct instruction and modelling.
Most importantly, a Father Figure reveals fatherhood as a profound responsibility rather than merely a genetic relationship.
There is much to learn from these figures and how to identify them in your life.
Speaking of learning, one of the modern era’s most insightful singer-songwriters, Jon Bellion, recently released an album titled ‘Father Figure.’ This album is a promise to his sons, echoing the devotion shown by those who shaped him.
Throughout this article, I’ll use some of his powerful lyrics to illustrate the key traits of a true Father Figure.
Stay with me on this.
The Five Traits of a Father Figure
Whether examining earthly relationships or divine guidance, a father figure consistently exhibits five fundamental traits:
Provision. Presence. Patience. Perseverance. Protection.
Let’s break it down.
-
Provision
If you’re in his way, then I’m on my way, oh
Don’t shoot that boy down, He stays in the clouds (Hе does)
– Jon Bellion, DON’T SHOOT.
A father figure provides before you even know what you need.
He works long hours, skips comforts, and shows up consistently. Your earthly father figures may not have everything, but they give everything they have to those in their care. They know that provision goes beyond money and things – they also give time, attention, and love.
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
God, our heavenly Father, provides even more. He gives us breath, purpose, and grace every day. Divine provision shows us that God gives us everything we need, even when we don’t deserve it.
With a Father Figure, you feel safe because someone considers your needs before you even voice them.
-
Presence
Lord, it’s tough to hold my son and be here in the moment.
I need to keep him safe, tell me which direction this world is going…
He said a present father is worth way more than a perfect dad
– Jon Bellion, MY BOY
Being there means more than just showing up in the same room.
Earthly fathers who truly understand presence put down their phones, look into their children’s eyes, and listen. They show up because they know their attention is a gift.
A Father Figure create memories by simply being fully there in each moment.
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” – Zephaniah 3:17
God’s presence is even closer and surpasses this earthly model. He never leaves, even when the world feels quiet. Our Heavenly Father reminds us we are never truly alone, even in our darkest times.
Because some of the best love is felt, not spoken.
-
Patience
So can we decide
That we’ll give this one more try?
And we’ll get it right, yeah, we’ll get it right this time– Jon Bellion, GET IT RIGHT
A father is patient even when you mess up again and again.
He doesn’t yell when you drop the ball; instead, he helps you pick it back up. Earthly fathers try to guide gently. They know growth takes time.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
God exemplifies perfect patience. He waits for us when we drift and welcomes us back with open arms. His patience with us shows perfect love that never gives up, even when we mess up again and again.
Real love doesn’t give up when progress is slow.
- Perseverance
If the higher I fly is the further I fall
Then why love anything at all?
– Jon Bellion, WHY
A father figure never gives up, no matter how hard things get.
On earth, father figures continue to love, guide, and support even when it feels like nothing is working. These fathers understand that raising children is a marathon, not a sprint. They stay committed for the long journey.
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” – Hebrews 10:23
God’s love never stops chasing us, even when we run the other way. His perseverance teaches us that His love endures through every season of our lives.
The strength of a Father Figure becomes most evident when he refuses to walk away.
- Protection
If less of me will give you more, I’m strangling my pride
Light of my life, lay down my life
– Jon Bellion, RICH AND BROKE
A father’s ultimate responsibility is to keep his children safe from harm.
Earthly fathers protect their kids from physical danger, but they also guard their hearts and minds from things that could hurt them. They create safe homes where children can grow without fear. Good fathers build walls around what’s harmful while opening doors to what’s good and right.
A Father Figure protects with his hands, hearts, and hard choices.
“The Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” – Psalm 91:2
God protects your soul. He covers us in battles we can’t even see. Divine protection reminds us that we have a heavenly Father who watches over us every moment.
Because love instinctively guards the ones it treasures.
How Father Figures Create Lasting Impact
The fishing trip anecdote that opened this email discussion illustrates the powerful difference perspective makes in father-child relationships.
While one saw a wasted day, the other experienced life’s greatest joy.
This contrast must remind you that becoming or recognising a Father Figure (whether in yourself or others) requires intentional commitment to these five essential traits.
When someone embodies the role of Father Figure, they unlock the ability to shape destinies and build confidence in those they guide.
Through provision, presence, patience, perseverance, and protection, these remarkable individuals create ripple effects that strengthen families, communities, and future generations.
Who in your life embodies these qualities? Take a moment to appreciate them.
And consider how you might cultivate these ‘Father Figure’ traits in your interactions.
Cheers.
Zamai.
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