In this video and quotes that follow, teachings of living prophets and apostles help fathers understand what God expects of them by explaining the essential roles, responsibilities, and blessings given them “by divine design” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World”).
Protect Your Home
“Fathers, I would remind you of the sacred nature of your calling. You have the power of the priesthood directly from the Lord to protect your home. There will be times when all that stands as a shield between your family and the adversary’s mischief will be that power. You will receive direction from the Lord by way of the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Boyd K. Packer, “The Power of the Priesthood,” Apr. 2010 general conference).
Preside Over Your Family
“Fathers, by divine decree, you are to preside over your family units. This is a sobering responsibility and the most important one you will ever assume, for it is an eternal responsibility. You place the family in its proper priority. It’s the part of your life that will endure beyond the grave” (L. Tom Perry, “Fatherhood, an Eternal Calling,” Apr. 2004 general conference).
Make Time for Family Activities
“Some of our most important choices concern family activities. Many breadwinners worry that their occupations leave too little time for their families. There is no easy formula for that contest of priorities. However, I have never known of a man who looked back on his working life and said, ‘I just didn’t spend enough time with my job’ ” (Dallin H. Oaks “Good, Better, Best” Oct. 2007 general conference).
Model Manhood for Sons
“Fathers, you are the primary model of manhood for your sons. You are their most meaningful mentor, and believe it or not, you are their hero in countless ways. Your words and your example are a great influence on them. … Listen to them, and connect with them in regular, focused conversation. Talk with them in depth about their feelings and desires. Pray with them, and give them blessings as they face the important decisions in their future” (M. Russell Ballard, “Fathers and Sons, a Remarkable Relationship,” Oct. 2009 general conference).
Build Relationship with Children
“As a father, I wonder if I and all other fathers could do more to build a sweeter, stronger relationship with our sons and daughters here on earth. Dads, is it too bold to hope that our children might have some small portion of the feeling for us that the Divine Son felt for His Father? Might we earn more of that love by trying to be more of what God was to His child?” (Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Hands of the Fathers,” Apr. 1999 general conference).
Provide Spiritual Leadership
As men of the priesthood, we have an essential role to play in society, at home, and in the Church. But we must be men that women can trust, that children can trust, and that God can trust. In the Church and kingdom of God in these latter days, . . . we cannot afford husbands and fathers who fail to provide spiritual leadership in the home” (D. Todd Christofferson, “Brethren, We Have Work to Do,” Oct. 2012 general conference).
Testify of the Savior
“I make a special appeal to fathers: Please be an important part of talking to your children about the Savior. They need the confirming expressions of your faith, along with those of their mother.
“If a child is not listening, don’t despair. Time and truth are on your side. At the right moment, your words will return as if from heaven itself. Your testimony will never leave your children” (Neil L. Andersen, “Tell Me the Stories of Jesus,” Apr. 2010 general conference).
