The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse under the auspices of fatherhood.gov reports that research shows that a loving and nurturing father improves outcomes for children, families, and communities. Studies suggest that children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy and pro-social behavior, and avoid high-risk behaviors including drug use, missing school, and criminal activity.

None of this research should surprise us. God’s divine plan for marriage and family wasn’t just good for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. His design calls for fathers at all times and in all places to be an integral part of their children’s lives. Of course the number one responsibility of a dad is to teach his children about God and to lead them spiritually.