In many countries, today June 20 2021 is Father’s Day. Just like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day is such an important and significant day to honor our fathers and those who have been father-like to us. On this day children acknowledge and appreciate their fathers and father figures, who play an important role in their lives, be it emotionally, mentally or even financially.

To become a father is both a great joy and a privilege. But more importantly, it is a great responsibility. It is a father’s duty to love his children, to bring them up knowing how to live in this world where there is so much that desires to lead them astray. A father must teach his children the truth about courage, the difference between right and wrong, how to remain true to themselves and how to treat others with reverence, mercy and hospitality, with his very life.

Father’s Day, like Christmas, birthdays and other special occasions, can be a particularly difficult time of year for parents that are unable to see their children or for those of us who have lost their dads or husband or partners. And for many fathers, the gifts and advertising campaigns focused on Fathers Day is probably a very painful reminder of their own situation. It can be an incredibly lonely time, and it can be difficult for friends and family to understand what you are going through.

This Father’s Day, I am reminded that we have a God in heaven, whose patience is unparalleled. Whose grace is unmerited. And who gives instruction in a still, small voice that is for our benefit and growth.

In Deuteronomy 31:6, God commands our confident trust in Him.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you.”

It’s in those seasons, as we display courage and trust that His promise will still remain. “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

Let this Father’s Day serve as a reminder that our God never tires, never complains, and continues to gently speak to us in His still, small voice, “Stay under it. Stay under it. You can do it. Stay under it.”

 In order to help you prepare for Father’s Day, I have rounded up some songs for Father’s Day, ranging from light-hearted and silly to sweet and sentimental.

“You Should Be Here,” Cole Swindell, 2015

“Build Me A Daddy,” Luke Bryan

This heartbreaking song is about a little boy missing his father, who is “strong as Superman” and has a crooked smile. (You’ll definitely want to have tissues nearby!)

“Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel),” Billy Joel, 1994

Billy Joel wrote this beautiful lullaby for his daughter, Alexa Ray. The song later inspired one of two picture books by Joel.

“My Father’s Eyes,” Eric Clapton, 1998

For anyone who has lost a father, this song is especially poignant, reflecting on moments you wish you had your father’s help.

 “The Father’s Song,” centers on the birth of the artist’s first child and his own experiences growing up without a father. 

Cinderella – Steven Curtis Chapman

Chapman wrote the song, just months before his 5-year-old daughter, Maria, was killed in a tragic accident last May. … ‘Cinderella‘ was written about Chapman’s daughters, to remind him to appreciate each moment he had with his girls before they grew up.

“Dance With My Father,” Luther Vandross, 2003

In this tribute to his deceased father, Luther remembers being 7 years old and dancing with his father and mother at home, singing, “How I’d love love love to dance with my father again.” The song won two Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, but Luther was hospitalized from a stroke and couldn’t attend the ceremony; he sadly passed away soon after.

“Drive (For Daddy Gene)” by Alan Jackson

Fathers and sons don’t need a lot to have a good time together — whether they’re steering a boat or driving an old Ford, the memories last a lifetime.

“The Greatest Man I Never Knew” by Reba McEntire

The legendary country singer sings about the reality of young children with a hard0working dad. The main takeaway: He might keep to himself, but there’s no doubt that your dad still loves you.

“Your Joy” by Chrisette Michele

A song fit for a father-daughter dance, Chrisette Michele details the relationship between a dad and his daughter, especially as she grows up and finds love of her own. “You’ll always be my father and I’ll always be your joy,” she sings. Cue the tears.

Today, I pray that it will be a special day for FATHERS, as well those MOTHERS who are also doing their best to fill the role of fathers who for one reason or another, are not present.

May God’s blessings and guidance be yours always. Happy Father’s Day!