How our dad influences our view of God

Dads have a larger than life impact on their children, for good or for ill. We can deny it all we want, but if we spend the time to look closely at our heart, we will recognize the role our dad played in shaping who we have become.

Our dad's influence even extends to our conception of God.

Writer Kelsey Dallas put it succinctly in an article for Deseret News:

Typically there are three main scenarios that can impact how a child views God. The first scenario involves the "absent" father.

This not only covers families where the father is not present, but also those families where the dad simply isn't "there." He may be a slave to his work and is never home.

Children raised in this environment might question whether God exists, or if he even loves them. They don't witness love from their earthly father and so it is more difficult to imagine a heavenly Father who does love them.

The second scenario involves a strict disciplinarian who is more of a "tyrant" than anything else. This type of father knows he has power over his children and uses it on a daily basis.

A tyrant father can make children view God as a Zeus figure who sends down lightning bolts upon those who disobey him. Religion ends up being a "bunch of rules," and God is present, but not someone you love.

The third scenario is what we hope all children will experience, a truly loving father. Children raised by a loving father will have little to no problem believing in a good God and will be drawn to a deeper relationship with God the Father.

Of course, no dad is perfect and often every dad will exhibit qualities from each of these scenarios throughout his life.

The key for any dad reading this is to strive to be that last father, the loving one. You can still have rules in your household, but you need to have mercy.

Imitate God the Father's love and compassion as much as possible and your children will grow up knowing first-hand that God loves them.