What your relationship with your father was like when you were younger and how you’ve dealt with that has a lot to do with who you are today. Whatever your experience has been, being aware of your emotions, memories, and needs will help you, especially as you share with a friend and pray about these things.
My friend, Pastor Joe Johnson, developed a survey called “Father Dialogues.” I’ve adapted this below. Complete any statements below that help you to express your heart about your relationship with your father:
I wish…
I miss…
I really enjoyed it when you…
It was painful for me when you…
I am angry that…
I forgive you for…
Thank you for…
After you complete this survey find a safe person to share your experiences and emotions with and ask him or her to pray for you. (Perhaps he or she might also complete the “Father Dialogues.”) This is a way for you to receive God’s healing love.
* Contact “Papa Joe” Johnson, founder of “Heart of the Father Ministries,” for healing prayer ministry seminars and retreats: pastorjoejohnson@gmail.com.