Father’s Day is a special time to reflect on the godly influence of fathers and father figures. The Bible has much to say about fatherhood—about the responsibilities, character, love, and spiritual legacy that come with it. Whether you’re honoring your own father or sharing encouragement with a new dad, these verses from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible highlight the vital role of fathers and their relationship with God.
Let these 25 verses inspire gratitude, reflection, and encouragement as we celebrate Father’s Day.
1. Proverbs 20:7
“The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.”
A father who lives righteously leaves a legacy of blessing. His integrity impacts generations, showing that character matters more than wealth or fame.
2. Ephesians 6:4
“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”
Paul reminds fathers to raise their children with love, care, and God’s Word—not with anger or harshness. It’s a call to guide, not dominate.
3. Psalm 103:13
“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.”
This verse shows the tenderness of God’s fatherly love. Earthly fathers are called to reflect that same compassion and care.
4. Proverbs 3:11–12
“My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.”
Discipline from a loving father is a sign of delight, not disdain. Just as God corrects those He loves, fathers are called to lovingly train their children.
5. Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”
Paul warns against parenting that breaks a child’s spirit. Encouragement, not exasperation, helps children grow in confidence and faith.
6. Deuteronomy 6:6–7
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children…”
Fathers are instructed to teach God’s commandments continually. Faith is meant to be passed down daily, through word and example.
7. Joshua 24:15
“…as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Joshua takes spiritual leadership in his home. This verse is a powerful declaration for fathers to commit their households to God.
8. Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Fathers have the responsibility to guide their children in righteousness. When grounded in truth, that foundation lasts a lifetime.
9. Genesis 18:19
“For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him…”
God praised Abraham for leading his family in righteousness. Godly fatherhood involves spiritual direction and obedience to God.
10. 1 Corinthians 16:13–14
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity.”
These words urge men, including fathers, to be vigilant, strong, and loving. Fatherhood calls for strength rooted in godly love.
11. Psalm 127:3–5
“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward…”
Children are a blessing, not a burden. Fathers are stewards of God’s heritage, called to protect and cherish their families.
12. Proverbs 4:1
“Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.”
This verse acknowledges a father’s wisdom. Fathers must speak truth and lead with discernment, trusting their children will listen.
13. Malachi 4:6
“And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers…”
God desires restored relationships. This verse prophesies a revival of family unity—beginning with the father’s heart.
14. Hebrews 12:7
“If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?”
Correction is part of fatherhood. When done with love, it’s a sign of a true, caring relationship—just like God disciplines us for our good.
15. Luke 15:20
“But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion…”
The parable of the prodigal son reveals the father’s forgiving heart. It’s a moving image of grace, patience, and unconditional love.
16. Exodus 20:12
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land…”
This commandment shows the honor due to fathers. Respect is not just tradition—it is divine instruction.
17. Proverbs 17:6
“Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.”
Fathers bring honor to their children, and grandchildren are a father’s legacy. It reflects the generational blessing of righteous living.
18. 2 Samuel 7:14–15
“I will be his father, and he shall be my son…”
God promised David that He would treat Solomon with fatherly care. It reveals God’s tender relationship with His people and offers a model for earthly fathers.
19. Isaiah 64:8
“But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter…”
God, as Father, shapes us lovingly and purposefully. This reminds fathers to be patient, guiding their children with the Creator’s care.
20. 1 Thessalonians 2:11–12
“As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children…”
Paul used fatherly language to describe pastoral care. Fathers are to encourage, comfort, and challenge their children in godliness.
21. Matthew 7:9–11
“Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?”
Jesus uses earthly fathers as an example of God’s generosity. Even flawed fathers know how to give good gifts. How much more our Heavenly Father!
22. Proverbs 23:24
“The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.”
Nothing brings joy to a godly father like seeing his child walk in wisdom and righteousness. It’s the fruit of spiritual investment.
23. John 3:16
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…”
Fatherhood involves sacrifice. God the Father gave His Son for us—modeling the ultimate act of love and giving.
24. 1 John 3:1
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God…”
This verse celebrates God’s fatherly love. Earthly fathers can find strength and example in God’s extravagant love for His children.
25. Matthew 6:9
“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”
Jesus taught us to call God “Father.” This honor reminds us that earthly fatherhood is sacred because it reflects the nature of God Himself.
Honoring Fathers Through Scripture
These 25 Bible verses for Father’s Day offer more than encouragement—they offer a blueprint for godly fatherhood. From integrity and discipline to love and leadership, Scripture paints a full picture of what it means to be a faithful father.
As we celebrate Father’s Day, may these verses be shared in cards, sermons, conversations, and quiet moments of reflection. Whether your father is near or far, living or passed on, these words remind us of the eternal impact fathers have—and of the love of our perfect Heavenly Father who models it all.
To dive deeper into God’s Word, consider checking out Bible Guides and Bible Study Online resources to grow in faith and understanding.
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