Bible Verses for Father’s Day
Father’s Day, observed every third Sunday in June, is a cherished occasion dedicated to honoring and expressing gratitude for the remarkable fathers and father figures who play such vital roles in our lives. It’s a time to acknowledge their unwavering support, guidance, and love. One particularly meaningful way to celebrate these influential men is by sharing inspiring Bible verses with them. These scriptural passages, filled with wisdom and love, can be incorporated into cards, text messages, social media posts, or simply spoken aloud, offering a powerful expression of appreciation and encouragement.
Father’s Day Bible Verses to Inspire and Encourage Dads
Father’s Day transcends the simple act of gift-giving; it’s a moment to truly reflect on the profound and lasting impact fathers have on their children and families. Whether they are mentors imparting invaluable wisdom, pillars of strength providing unwavering support, or simply loving figures offering unconditional acceptance, fathers are undoubtedly a blessing. This year, let us go beyond material presents and celebrate them with words that resonate deeply, words that touch their hearts and souls. And what better source for such powerful words than the inspired scriptures, words that come directly from our Heavenly Father.
Sharing Bible verses on Father’s Day is more than just a gesture of gratitude; it’s an opportunity to infuse their special day with heavenly encouragement and inspiration. These verses can uplift, strengthen, and remind fathers of their inherent worth and the significant role they play. Whether you are expressing your love and appreciation for your own father, your husband, a stepfather, a grandfather, or any other man who has served as a father figure in your life, let the timeless wisdom of God’s word speak volumes. Let the scriptures convey the value and worth you see in them, reminding them of the positive influence they have had and the love they so freely give. These scriptural gifts can be a source of comfort, strength, and joy, making this Father’s Day truly memorable and blessed.
Top Father’s Day Scriptures
Psalm 103:13 (NIV): “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.”
- “As a father shows compassion to his children,”: This part uses a familiar human relationship to illustrate God’s character. It draws on the natural, deep, and tender pity, mercy, and understanding that a good earthly father has for his own children, especially when they are weak, hurting, or in need. This is a common, relatable experience of nurturing care.
- “so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.”: This is the comparison. Just as an earthly father cares for his kids, the Lord extends that same profound compassion (a deep, heartfelt sympathy that moves one to action) to those who “fear him.” To “fear” God in this context means to have a reverent awe, respect, and obedience toward Him, acknowledging His authority and goodness. It implies a loving relationship built on trust and honor, rather than mere terror.
Here’s an explanation for Psalm 127:3-5:
Psalm 127:3-5 (NIV): “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in the courts.”
- “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”: This foundational statement means that children are a special gift, a blessing, and a valuable possession given by God. They are not merely a biological outcome, but a divine inheritance, indicating God’s favor and generosity to parents.
- “Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.”: This is a powerful metaphor. Just as a warrior uses arrows for defense and to achieve victory, children (especially those born when parents are younger and can actively raise and train them for a longer period) are likened to valuable assets or tools. They can be raised and guided to become strong, effective individuals who contribute positively to the family and community.
- “Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.”: This declares that a person (specifically a father, representing the family unit) is fortunate and prosperous who has many children. The “quiver” symbolizes the capacity to have and raise children, and a “full” quiver signifies a large family, which was often seen as a sign of God’s blessing and strength in ancient times.
- “They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in the courts.”: This part describes the benefit of having many children. In ancient Near Eastern culture, legal and public disputes often took place “in the gate” (the city’s public assembly area). Having many grown children meant having a large, supportive family network. These adult children could stand with their parents, providing testimony, influence, and protection against false accusations or disputes, ensuring the family’s honor and justice in public life.
Proverbs 22:6 – Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.undesired. Here’s an explanation for Proverbs 22:6:
“even when he is old he will not depart from it.”: This phrase describes the expected positive outcome of such diligent training. It suggests that the foundational lessons and values imparted during childhood will deeply influence the individual throughout their life, providing a moral compass that remains with them even into adulthood and old age. It speaks to the lasting impact of early moral and spiritual education.
“Train up a child in the way he should go;”: This is a direct instruction to parents or guardians. “Train up” implies a dedicated, intentional, and ongoing process of teaching, nurturing, disciplining, and guiding a child. “The way he should go” refers to the path of wisdom, righteousness, and moral conduct that aligns with God’s principles. It suggests instilling good habits, values, and knowledge from a young age.
Ephesians 6:4 – Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Here’s an explanation for Ephesians 6:4:
“but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”: This provides the positive alternative and the correct method for raising children. “Bring them up” implies nurturing and guiding. “Discipline” here refers not just to punishment, but to training, correction, and teaching self-control. “Instruction of the Lord” means educating them in the ways of God – teaching them biblical principles, spiritual truths, moral values, and godly character. It emphasizes raising children with a spiritual foundation and according to divine guidance.
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger,”: This is a direct admonition to fathers (representing parents or guardians generally). It warns against parenting practices that might unfairly frustrate, exasperate, or embitter children. This could include being overly harsh, inconsistent, unreasonable, demanding perfection, showing favoritism, belittling, or constantly criticizing. The aim is to avoid actions that damage a child’s spirit or cause resentment.
Proverbs 23:24 (NIV): “The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise child rejoices in him.”
- “The father of a righteous child has great joy;”: This part speaks to the profound happiness and satisfaction a father experiences when his child grows up to be a person of moral integrity and upright character. “Righteous” here means living according to God’s standards, doing what is morally good and just. This outcome brings immense delight to the parent.
- “a man who fathers a wise child rejoices in him.”: This reiterates and expands on the previous thought. “Wise” in biblical terms means living skillfully according to God’s truth, making good choices, and understanding how to live effectively. When a son (representing offspring in general) embodies such wisdom, it brings deep satisfaction and celebration to his father. The joy comes from seeing the fruit of good upbringing and God’s blessing in the child’s life.
Joshua 24:15 (NIV): “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
- “And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve,”: Joshua is challenging the Israelites to make a definitive decision about their spiritual allegiance. He presents the choice as a stark contrast: serving the Lord God of Israel versus serving other gods. “Evil in your eyes” means if they find the prospect of serving the Lord unappealing or difficult. The phrase “choose this day” emphasizes the urgency and importance of making an immediate and clear commitment.
- “whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell.”: This outlines the two primary alternatives to serving the Lord. “The gods your fathers served beyond the River” refers to the pagan deities worshipped by their ancestors before Abraham’s call, highlighting a past idolatry. “The gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell” refers to the local Canaanite deities of the land they had conquered, representing the pervasive idolatry surrounding them. Joshua is forcing them to confront the choices of their past or their present environment.
- “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”: This is Joshua’s personal declaration and powerful example. He doesn’t just present the choice to the people; he emphatically states his own unwavering commitment and that of his entire household (family and servants) to worship and obey the Lord. This phrase serves as both a strong conviction and a challenge for the people to follow his lead.
Proverbs 20:7 (NIV): “The righteous who walks in integrity—blessed are his children after him
“blessed are his children after him!”: This speaks to the positive legacy and inheritance that such a parent leaves for their descendants. “Blessed” means favored by God, prosperous, and fortunate. The blessing for the children comes not from material wealth alone, but from the example of a godly life, the good reputation their parent builds, and the righteous training and values they instill. It implies that the positive influence and reputation of a virtuous parent extend beyond their lifetime to benefit their children.
“The righteous who walks in integrity—”: This describes a person whose life is characterized by moral uprightness, honesty, and consistency between their words and actions. A “righteous” person lives according to God’s standards, and “integrity” means being whole, complete, and uncorrupted in character. This highlights a life lived with unwavering moral principle.
These Father’s Day Bible verses remind us of the importance of being a good father and raising our children in a way that honors God. They also remind us that being a father is a great responsibility, but one that comes with great rewards.
Discover more Bible verses about fathers in this collection of scripture quotes that highlights fathers as role models, examples of fathers in the Bible, as well as prayers and blessings over fathers:
A Father’s Day Prayer
Heavenly Father, today, we honor the fathers in our lives. Thank You for their love, strength, and guidance. Bless them with wisdom, patience, and courage as they navigate the challenges of fatherhood. For new fathers, grant excitement and bravery. For fathers of young children, provide energy and patience. For those with teenagers, give them strength and wisdom.
Bless grandfathers with joy and single dads with support. Comfort those who have lost children or struggle with infertility. Remind all fathers that their love makes a lasting impact.
Read more Father’s Day Prayers
Thank You for fathers who reflect Your love. May we always support and uplift them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Ephesians 6:4 NIV
This verse is Ephesians 6:4.
Here’s an explanation for Ephesians 6:4:
Ephesians 6:4 (NIV): “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”“instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”: This provides the positive and proper way to raise children. “Bring them up” implies nurturing, guiding, and providing for their development. “Training” refers to discipline, correction, and the development of character and self-control. “Instruction of the Lord” means teaching them biblical principles, spiritual truths, moral values, and godly character. It emphasizes raising children with a spiritual foundation and according to divine guidance.
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children;”: This is a direct warning to fathers (and by extension, parents or guardians). To “exasperate” means to anger, frustrate, irritate, or provoke your children. This can happen through unfair demands, constant criticism, inconsistent discipline, favoritism, harshness, or bitterness. The aim is to avoid actions that discourage, embitter, or alienate children.
Read Ephesians 6
1 Corinthians 16:13 NIV
Here’s an explanation for 1 Corinthians 16:13:
1 Corinthians 16:13 (NIV): “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”“be strong.”: This is a general call to spiritual fortitude and resilience. It means to be robust in character, mentally tough, and spiritually equipped to endure hardships, fulfill their calling, and resist evil. It encompasses the preceding commands, urging a holistic strength in their Christian walk.
“Be on your guard;”: This is a call to spiritual vigilance and awareness. It means to be watchful, alert, and mindful of potential dangers, temptations, or spiritual attacks from within or outside the Christian community. It’s about being spiritually awake and not complacent.
“stand firm in the faith;”: This instructs believers to remain resolute and unwavering in their commitment to the core truths and beliefs of Christianity. It means not being easily swayed by false teachings, doubts, or worldly pressures, but holding steadfast to what they believe.
“be courageous;”: This is an exhortation to boldness and fearlessness in living out their Christian convictions. It encourages believers to face challenges, opposition, or difficult situations with inner strength and resolve, rather than timidity.
Read 1 Corinthians 16
Proverbs 3:11-12 NIV
Here’s an explanation for the verse:
Proverbs 3:11-12 (NIV): “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”“because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”: This explains the loving motivation behind God’s discipline. Just as a good earthly father corrects a child because he genuinely loves and takes pleasure in that child and wants them to grow up well, so too does God. His discipline is not punishment for punishment’s sake, but rather an act of profound love, intended for our growth, instruction, and ultimate good. It’s a sign of our status as His beloved children.
“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke,”: This is an instruction to not reject, scorn, or become bitter about God’s correction. “Discipline” here refers to training, correction, and even hardships that God allows or sends into our lives. “Rebuke” refers to His reproof or strong disapproval when we go astray. The command is to accept these forms of correction without contempt or anger.
Read Proverbs 3
Proverbs 15:5 NIV
Here’s an explanation for Proverbs 15:5:
Proverbs 15:5 (NIV): “A fool spurns a parent’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.”“but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.”: This contrasts the fool with a wise individual. To “heed correction” means to listen to, accept, and learn from reproof, advice, or discipline. “Prudence” refers to wisdom, good judgment, discretion, and the ability to make sound decisions. This part of the verse teaches that a willingness to be corrected and to learn from instruction is a hallmark of true wisdom and leads to a sensible, discerning life.
“A fool spurns a parent’s discipline,”: This describes the characteristic behavior of a “fool” in the biblical sense. A fool is someone who lacks wisdom, ignores godly counsel, and often acts recklessly. To “spurn” means to reject with contempt, disdain, or arrogance. So, a fool proudly dismisses or refuses to listen to the guidance, training, and correction offered by their parents (or those in authority). This highlights a stubborn and unteachable spirit.
Read Proverbs 15
Proverbs 20:7 NIV
This verse is Proverbs 20:7.
Here’s an explanation for Proverbs 20:7:
Proverbs 20:7 (NIV): “The righteous who walks in his integrity— blessed are his children after him!”“blessed are his children after him!”: This signifies the positive legacy and divine favor that extends to the children of such a person. “Blessed” means they receive favor, prosperity, and well-being from God. This blessing comes not necessarily from material wealth left behind, but from the powerful example of a godly life, the good reputation the parent establishes, and the spiritual training and moral values instilled. It suggests that the positive influence and virtuous life of a parent can profoundly benefit their descendants, even long after they are gone.
“The righteous who walks in his integrity—”: This describes a person who lives a life characterized by moral uprightness, honesty, and consistency. A “righteous” individual strives to live according to God’s standards and principles, while “integrity” means being whole, complete, and uncorrupted in character. This emphasizes a consistent lifestyle of moral excellence and truthfulness.
Read Proverbs 20
Proverbs 22:6 NIV
This verse is Proverbs 22:6.
Here’s an explanation for Proverbs 22:6:
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV): “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”“and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”: This phrase describes the long-term, lasting impact of consistent and intentional training during childhood. It suggests that the fundamental lessons, values, and direction instilled early in life will become deeply ingrained, providing a moral and spiritual foundation that will remain with the individual throughout their adulthood and old age.
“Start children off on the way they should go,”: This is a direct instruction to parents or guardians regarding the upbringing of children. “Start children off” implies an intentional, proactive, and early effort in their development. “The way they should go” refers to guiding them in a manner that aligns with righteousness, wisdom, and God’s principles. It involves teaching them moral values, good habits, spiritual truths, and proper conduct from a young age.
Read Proverbs 22
Proverbs 23:22-24 NIV
Here’s an explanation for Proverbs 23:22-24:
Proverbs 23:22 (NIV): “Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”“a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.”: This reiterates that a parent finds deep delight and pride when their son (representing offspring generally) demonstrates wisdom, meaning they make good choices, understand life skillfully, and live in a discerning manner. The joy stems from seeing their child grow into a person of character and understanding.
“Listen to your father, who gave you life,”: This is a command to respect and obey your father, acknowledging his role in your existence and upbringing. It emphasizes the importance of valuing his wisdom, guidance, and authority.
“and do not despise your mother when she is old.”: This warns against showing contempt, disrespect, or neglect towards your mother, especially as she ages and may become more dependent or less physically capable. It highlights the lasting honor owed to parents.
Proverbs 23:23 (NIV): “Buy the truth and do not sell it—wisdom, instruction and insight as well.”“Buy the truth and do not sell it—”: This metaphor urges you to acquire truth at any cost, prioritizing it above all else, and then to never compromise or abandon it for any price. It emphasizes the immense value of truth.
“wisdom, instruction and insight as well.”: This expands on the idea, including wisdom (the skill to live effectively according to God’s ways), instruction (guidance and discipline), and insight (understanding and discernment). These are presented as equally invaluable possessions to be earnestly sought and never relinquished.
Proverbs 23:24 (NIV): “The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.”“The father of a righteous child has great joy;”: This means a father experiences profound happiness and satisfaction when his child lives an upright life, characterized by moral integrity and adherence to God’s standards.
Read Proverbs 23
Psalm 68:5 NIV
This verse is Psalm 68:5.
Here’s an explanation for Psalm 68:5:
Psalm 68:5 (NIV): “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.”“is God in his holy dwelling.”: This indicates that these compassionate and protective actions are not random or occasional, but are inherent to God’s character and consistent with His divine nature, which is manifested from His holy place (heaven or His sanctuary). It underscores that His care for the vulnerable is a fundamental aspect of who He is.
“A father to the fatherless,”: This metaphor highlights God’s compassionate and caring nature, particularly for those who lack a primary provider and protector. It means that God takes on the role of a loving, watchful, and providing parent for children who have lost their fathers, ensuring their needs are met and they are not abandoned.
“a defender of widows,”: This further emphasizes God’s active protection and advocacy for another extremely vulnerable group in society. Widows in ancient times often lacked legal, social, or financial support, making them susceptible to injustice and exploitation. This phrase means God actively champions their cause, ensures their rights, and protects them from harm.
Read Psalm 68
Psalm 103:13 NIV
This verse is Psalm 103:13.
Here’s an explanation for Psalm 103:13:
Psalm 103:13 (NIV): “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;”“so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;”: This is the comparison, revealing God’s benevolent nature. Just as an earthly father cares deeply for his children, the Lord extends that same profound compassion (a deep, heartfelt sympathy that moves one to action to alleviate suffering) to those who “fear him.” To “fear” God in this context means to hold Him in reverent awe, respect, and obedient devotion, acknowledging His holiness and power. It’s a relationship of trust and honor, not terror.
“As a father has compassion on his children,”: This part uses a common and deeply relatable human experience to help us understand God’s character. It refers to the natural, tender, and empathetic feeling of mercy, pity, and understanding that a good parent has for their own children, especially when they are in distress, struggling, or in need of care.
Read Psalm 103
Psalm 127:3-5 NIV
This passage is Psalm 127:3-5.
Here’s an explanation for the verses:
Psalm 127:3 (NIV): “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”“They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.”: This explains a practical benefit of having many children. In ancient times, legal and public disputes often happened in city gates or courts. Having numerous adult children meant a strong family presence, providing support, testimony, and protection against false accusations, ensuring the family’s honor and justice in public life.
“Children are a heritage from the Lord,”: This means children are a special gift, a valuable possession, and an inheritance given by God. They are not merely a result of human procreation but a divine blessing entrusted to parents.
“offspring a reward from him.”: This reinforces the idea that having children is a blessing and a mark of God’s favor and generosity.
Psalm 127:4 (NIV): “Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.”“Like arrows in the hands of a warrior”: This uses a powerful image to compare children to weapons. Just as a warrior uses arrows for defense and to achieve victory, children can be instruments for good and strength.
“are children born in one’s youth.”: This suggests that children born when parents are younger can be raised and trained for a longer period, becoming capable and effective individuals who support their family and contribute positively to society.
Psalm 127:5 (NIV): “Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.”“Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.”: This declares that a person (specifically a father, representing the family) is fortunate and prosperous who has many children. A “full quiver” symbolizes a large family, which was traditionally seen as a sign of God’s blessing, strength, and security.
Read Psalm 127
Colossians 3:21 NIV
This verse is Colossians 3:21.
Here’s an explanation for Colossians 3:21:
Colossians 3:21 (NIV): “Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.”“or they will become discouraged.”: This explains the negative consequence of embittering children. When children are constantly provoked, criticized, or feel that they can never please their parents, they can “become discouraged.” This means they may lose heart, lose hope, become disheartened, or even give up trying to do what is right. Such discouragement can lead to a broken spirit, withdrawal, apathy, or even rebellion.
“Fathers, do not embitter your children,”: This is a direct command primarily to fathers (and by extension, to all parents or guardians). To “embitter” means to make someone feel resentful, bitter, frustrated, or angry. This can happen through various actions such as being overly harsh, unfair, inconsistent in discipline, constantly criticizing, making unreasonable demands, showing favoritism, or neglecting their emotional needs. The instruction is to avoid parenting behaviors that lead to a child developing deep-seated resentment or anger.
Read Colossians 3
Malachi 4:6 NIV
This verse is Malachi 4:6. It’s the very last verse of the Old Testament in many Bible translations.
Here’s an explanation for Malachi 4:6:
Malachi 4:6 (NIV): “He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.”“or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.”: This states the severe consequence if this spiritual and relational turning does not occur. It’s a dire warning from God that if the people do not repent and experience this restoration of right relationships (especially within the family, which is foundational to society), divine judgment will fall upon the land, leading to complete desolation and ruin. It underscores the critical importance of family harmony and spiritual reconciliation in God’s eyes.
“He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents;”: This is a prophetic promise about the work of a messenger (understood in Christian tradition as John the Baptist, preparing the way for Jesus). It speaks of a restoration of family relationships, where estranged or apathetic hearts are reconciled. “Turning hearts” implies a spiritual and relational transformation that brings warmth, affection, and proper regard back into parent-child relationships, fostering unity and mutual love within families. This is a sign of spiritual revival.
Read Malachi 4
Joshua 24:15 NIV
This verse is Joshua 24:15.
Here’s an explanation for Joshua 24:15:
Joshua 24:15 (NIV): “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”: This is Joshua’s powerful personal declaration and example. He does not merely present the choice to the people; he emphatically states his own unwavering commitment and that of his entire family (household) to worship and obey the Lord. This phrase serves as a strong statement of his conviction, a challenge to the people to follow his lead, and a testament to faithful leadership.
“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,”: Joshua is challenging the Israelites to make a clear and immediate decision about their spiritual allegiance. He presents the choice as a stark one: serving the one true God, the Lord, versus serving other deities. The phrase “undesirable to you” acknowledges that the path of obedience to the Lord might seem difficult or unappealing at times. “Choose for yourselves this day” emphasizes the urgency and personal responsibility involved in making this crucial spiritual commitment.
“whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living.”: This outlines the two main alternatives to serving the Lord. “The gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates” refers to the pagan idols worshipped by their forefathers before God called Abraham, representing a past form of idolatry. “The gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living” refers to the local deities of the Canaanite people whom Israel had dispossessed, representing the prevalent idolatry in their immediate environment. Joshua is forcing them to confront the real, tangible options for worship.
Read Joshua 24
Exodus 20:12 NIV
This verse is Exodus 20:12. It is the fifth of the Ten Commandments.
Here’s an explanation for Exodus 20:12:
Exodus 20:12 (NIV): “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”“so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”: This is the promised blessing or consequence for obedience to the command. For the Israelites, who were about to enter the Promised Land, it meant that adherence to this principle of honoring parents was linked to their continued enjoyment and possession of the land. More broadly, it implies that respecting and caring for those who gave you life contributes to a stable, just, and enduring society, leading to a “long life” of well-being and prosperity.
“Honor your father and your mother,”: This is a direct command from God, establishing a fundamental principle of respect and obedience towards parents. “Honor” means to give them high regard, show respect, provide for their needs (especially in old age), and obey their rightful authority. This command applies to both father and mother, emphasizing their equal importance in the family structure.
Read Exodus 20
Hebrews 12:7 NIV
This verse is Hebrews 12:7.
Here’s an explanation for Hebrews 12:7:
Hebrews 12:7 (NIV): “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?”“For what children are not disciplined by their father?”: This is a rhetorical question that reinforces the previous point. It highlights the universal truth that responsible, loving fathers discipline their children. Therefore, if God is indeed our Father, it is natural and expected that He would also discipline us for our good, just as an earthly father would. This confirms that hardship, when endured properly, is a sign of God’s fatherly love and care.
“Endure hardship as discipline;”: This is an instruction to believers facing difficulties and suffering. It means to patiently bear through challenging circumstances by recognizing that these hardships are not random or punitive, but serve a purposeful role as God’s loving correction or training. “Discipline” here refers to the process of training, correction, and teaching that a good parent provides for their child.
“God is treating you as his children.”: This provides the foundational reason for enduring hardship. It assures believers that when they experience difficulties that seem like discipline, it’s actually evidence of their beloved status as God’s children. He is not treating them as strangers or outcasts, but as cherished sons and daughters whom He is actively involved in raising and perfecting.
Read Hebrews 12
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 NIV
This passage is Deuteronomy 6:6-9, often referred to as a core part of the “Shema” (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), which is central to Jewish faith and practice.
Here’s an explanation for each part of the verses:
Deuteronomy 6:6 (NIV): “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.”“Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”: Similar to the previous verse, this has both a literal practice (mezuzahs on doorposts) and a symbolic meaning. It signifies that God’s laws should define your home life and be visible to everyone who enters or leaves. “On your gates” extends this to the public sphere, indicating that God’s principles should govern your interactions with the community and the standards of your public life.
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.”: This means that God’s laws are not just external rules to be followed, but they should be deeply internalized and become a part of who you are. “On your hearts” signifies that they should be in your mind, guiding your thoughts, desires, and motivations. It’s about genuine commitment and affection for God’s word.
Deuteronomy 6:7 (NIV): “Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”“Impress them on your children.”: This is a direct command to parents to diligently and effectively teach these divine truths to their children. “Impress” implies active, repeated, and thorough instruction, ensuring the lessons stick.
“Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”: This emphasizes that teaching God’s commandments should be an ongoing, natural, and integrated part of daily life. It’s not just for formal lessons, but for every moment – whether at rest, traveling, starting the day, or ending it. It highlights a continuous conversation about God’s word within the family.
Deuteronomy 6:8 (NIV): “Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.”“Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.”: This is a figurative instruction, and for many Jews, it’s also a literal practice (phylacteries or tefillin). Figuratively, it means that God’s laws should always be visible and influential in your actions (hands) and your thoughts (foreheads). They should guide everything you do and every decision you make, constantly reminding you of God’s presence and commands.
Deuteronomy 6:9 (NIV): “Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”
Read Deuteronomy 6
Matthew 7:9-11 NIV
This passage is Matthew 7:9-11.
Here’s an explanation for each part of the verses:
Matthew 7:9 (NIV): “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?”“how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”: This is the profound conclusion. It’s an argument from the lesser to the greater. If imperfect earthly parents know how to provide for their children, then God, who is perfectly good and loving, will certainly and abundantly provide “good gifts” (which include the Holy Spirit, as mentioned in the parallel passage in Luke 11:13) to those who earnestly ask Him. This assures believers of God’s benevolent and generous nature in response to prayer.
“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?”: Jesus poses a rhetorical question to illustrate a universal human truth about parental care. He highlights that no loving earthly father would respond to a child’s fundamental need for sustenance (bread) by giving them something worthless or harmful (a stone) that looks similar but offers no nourishment. This establishes a baseline of good intent in human parenting.
Matthew 7:10 (NIV): “Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?”“Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?”: This continues the illustration, using another common food request (fish) and contrasting it with something dangerous and undesirable (a snake). The point remains the same: a responsible parent doesn’t trick or harm their child when asked for something good; they provide what’s needed.
Matthew 7:11 (NIV): “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children,”: This acknowledges the fallen nature of humanity (“though you are evil” refers to the inherent sinfulness of humans in comparison to God’s perfect goodness) while still recognizing that even imperfect earthly parents possess a natural inclination to care for their children and provide for them. It sets up a comparison: if flawed humans can give good gifts.
Read Matthew 7
3 John 1:4 NIV
This verse is 3 John 1:4.
Here’s an explanation for 3 John 1:4:
3 John 1:4 (NIV): “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”: This statement expresses the deepest satisfaction and happiness of the Apostle John (the author) regarding those he considers his spiritual children (believers he has discipled or influenced). “Walking in the truth” means living a life that is consistent with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the gospel. It implies not just knowing the truth, but actively living it out in one’s daily conduct, choices, and character. For a spiritual leader or parent, there is immense joy in seeing those under their care genuinely follow God’s way.
Read 3 John 1
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 NIV
This passage is 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12.
Here’s an explanation for 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12:
1 Thessalonians 2:11 (NIV): “For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children,”“to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.”: This specifies the ultimate goal of their fatherly ministry. They nurtured and guided the Thessalonians so that their daily conduct and character would reflect the high calling they had received from God. They were to live in a way that honored God, who had invited them into His present reign (kingdom) and future splendor (glory).
“For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children,”: Paul is reminding the Thessalonian believers of the deeply personal, caring, and nurturing way he and his companions (Silas and Timothy) related to them. He compares their ministry approach to that of a loving father who provides individual attention, guidance, and affectionate care to each of his children, rather than a detached or impersonal approach.
1 Thessalonians 2:12 (NIV): “encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.”“encouraging, comforting and urging you”: This details the specific actions of their father-like care.
“Encouraging” means they built up and motivated the believers, giving them confidence and hope.
“Comforting” means they provided solace and reassurance, especially in times of difficulty or distress.
“Urging” means they strongly exhorted or appealed to them, emphasizing the importance of following their instruction.
Read 1 Thessalonians 2
Luke 15:20-24 NIV
20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.
Read Luke 15
Proverbs 16:6 NIV
This verse is Proverbs 16:6.
Here’s an explanation for Proverbs 16:6:
Proverbs 16:6 (NIV): “Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided.”“through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided.”: This means that a deep reverence for God, combined with acknowledging His authority and holiness (the “fear of the Lord”), serves as a powerful deterrent against committing evil. When one truly fears God, they are motivated to obey His commands and shun wicked paths, thus actively avoiding sinful actions and their consequences.
“Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;”: This part means that demonstrating steadfast love and unwavering loyalty (faithfulness) in one’s life is the means by which sins are covered, forgiven, or overcome. In the Old Testament context, while sacrifices were part of atonement, the consistent practice of covenant love and faithfulness to God and neighbor was also seen as essential for reconciliation and the removal of the effects of sin, both personally and communally. It suggests that a life characterized by these virtues leads to a right standing with God.
Read Proverbs 16
Deuteronomy 1:31 NIV
This verse is Deuteronomy 1:31.
Here’s an explanation for Deuteronomy 1:31:
Deuteronomy 1:31 (NIV): “and in the wilderness. There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.”
- “and in the wilderness. There you saw how the Lord your God carried you,”: Moses is reminding the Israelites of God’s faithful and continuous care during their long, difficult journey through the wilderness after leaving Egypt. “Carried you” signifies God’s active involvement, provision, and protection throughout their entire arduous trek. It implies that God bore their burdens and sustained them.
- “as a father carries his son,”: This uses a tender and relatable analogy to describe the nature of God’s care. Just as a loving father carefully carries his child, protecting them from dangers, providing comfort, and ensuring their safe passage, so too did God demonstrate intimate, compassionate, and unwavering care for His people. It highlights the personal and nurturing aspect of God’s relationship with them.
- “all the way you went until you reached this place.”: This emphasizes the completeness and constancy of God’s care. It means His guidance and support were present for every step of their journey, from the beginning until they arrived at their destination. It underscores God’s faithfulness and enduring commitment to His people, even through long periods of trial and uncertainty.
Read Deuteronomy 1
1 Corinthians 13:4-6 NIV
This passage is 1 Corinthians 13:4-6. This is one of the most famous descriptions of love in the Bible, often referred to as the “Love Chapter.”
Here’s an explanation for each part of the verses:
1 Corinthians 13:4 (NIV): “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”“but rejoices with the truth.”: This means love finds joy and affirmation in what is genuine, honest, and right. It celebrates integrity, transparency, and the triumph of truth over deception or injustice.
“Love is patient,”: This means that true love is able to endure difficult circumstances, annoyances, and delays without becoming irritable or angry. It exercises forbearance and long-suffering.
“love is kind.”: This means that love is benevolent, gentle, and helpful. It actively seeks to do good for others and acts with tenderness and consideration.
“It does not envy,”: This means that love is not jealous or covetous of what others possess or achieve. It genuinely rejoices in the good fortune of others rather than begrudging them.
“it does not boast,”: This means love doesn’t brag about its own accomplishments or inflate its own importance. It is humble and doesn’t seek to draw attention to itself.
“it is not proud.”: This means love isn’t arrogant, haughty, or conceited. It doesn’t look down on others or consider itself superior.
1 Corinthians 13:5 (NIV): “It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”“It does not dishonor others,”: This means love acts respectfully towards everyone and does not behave rudely, indecorously, or in a way that demeans or disrespects another person’s dignity.
“it is not self-seeking,”: This means love prioritizes the well-being and interests of others above its own. It is selfless and considers what is beneficial for the other person rather than demanding its own way.
“it is not easily angered,”: This means love is not quick to lose its temper or become provoked. It has a calm and controlled disposition, slow to irritation.
“it keeps no record of wrongs.”: This means love doesn’t hold grudges, tally up offenses, or dwell on past hurts. It forgives and moves past transgressions, refusing to remember them in order to use them against the person later.
1 Corinthians 13:6 (NIV): “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.”“Love does not delight in evil”: This means true love takes no pleasure or satisfaction in wickedness, injustice, or the misfortunes of others. It finds no joy in anything that is morally wrong or harmful.
Read 1 Corinthians 13
Joshua 24:15 NIV
This verse is Joshua 24:15.
Here’s an explanation for Joshua 24:15:
Joshua 24:15 (NIV): “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”: This is Joshua’s powerful personal declaration and example. He doesn’t just present the choice; he emphatically states his own unwavering commitment and that of his entire family to worship and obey the Lord. This phrase serves as a strong statement of his conviction, a challenge to the people to follow his lead, and a testament to faithful leadership.
“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,”: Joshua challenges the Israelites to make a clear, immediate decision about their spiritual loyalty. He presents a stark choice: serving the one true God, the Lord, versus serving other deities. The phrase “undesirable to you” acknowledges that obedience to the Lord might sometimes seem difficult or unappealing. “Choose for yourselves this day” emphasizes the urgency and personal responsibility of this crucial spiritual decision.
“whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living.”: This outlines the two main alternatives to worshipping the Lord. “The gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates” refers to the pagan idols worshipped by their forefathers before God called Abraham, representing past idolatry. “The gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living” refers to the local deities of the Canaanite people, representing the prevalent idolatry in their immediate environment. Joshua forces them to confront these real, tangible options for worship.
