Father Deficit

Amanda Platell, in the Daily Mail (Sat. 23rd Feb 2019), commented on the reasons why so many young girls - and some boys - are being admitted to hospitals across the UK with self-harm. Alongside the usual suspects of social media bullying she dares to mention an almost taboo subject - the absence of a father figure in their lives. She says "Take it from me, the relationship between a dad and a daughter is both sacred and empowering". She goes on to say that fathers need to affirm and admire their daughters to prepare them for a world of hostility and potential harm.

This is up-to-date but not new. A research project by the University of Birmingham in 2011 found that "father deficit" is a huge problem in our society. The research shows that young people subjected to "father deficit"are often isolated, unsupported and much more likely to be involved in anti-social behaviour, crime and substance abuse. They also found that such young people fight a daily battle with their emotions and negative feelings. Fathers have a great responsibility.

This morning I preached on the Father Heart of God from Luke 15. If you would like to hear it, you can see the video here https://youtu.be/V71DlR7m4Sk and the talk begins at about 25 minutes in and lasts around 30 mins. You see, there is a "Father deficit" in many Christians minds and hearts also and it leads to similar problems with low self-worth and negative emotions. I recommend you take the time to watch the video and consider this vital topic. Thanks.