Ordinary Angels was released last Friday. It’s the real-life story of a dad from my church. I recently talked with Pastor Dave Stone, who was the pastor of the church. He and I discussed 3 ways a dad can live out his faith. #1 The godly dad lives out his faith at home. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger… (Eph. 6:4). One way to provoke your kid to anger is to say one thing and do another. Pastor Dave shared how most preacher’s kids run away from the ministry/faith. Instead, Dave was attracted to ministry. Why? Because his dad was the same man at home as he was behind the pulpit. #2 The godly dad lives out his faith in marriage. husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way… (1 Peter 3:7). Most dads feel ill-equipped, exhausted, like you aren’t the man for the job. Dave explained how, when his kids were young, he’d come home and talk with his wife each night. By valuing marriage, his kids were seeing their dad’s faith. Your son should know you love his mom. #3 The godly dad lives out his faith with his life. teach them diligently to your children… (Deut. 6:6-7). Dave’s family was in a tragic car accident when he was young. His mom suffered greatly. The next few years were difficult for everyone. Dave’s dad would take him on hospital and funeral home visits, where he’d see his dad live out his faith with his very life. 

HOW TO TALK TO TEENAGERS: When your son or daughter was younger, you probably enjoyed being the center of their universe. They wanted to tell you everything that happened during their day. Then, as they move into adolescence, the well runs dry. Words are harder, and communication with your teenager feels like a chore. If that’s you, don’t lose hope. You can learn how to talk with your teen. Try these 5 methods and build that relationship!

THE MEANING OF DILIGENCE FOR FATHERS: In Proverbs 12, King Solomon had a lot to say on the subject of diligence—and all of it was positive. From God’s perspective, it’s a good thing for a man to make his mark in the world by developing a reputation for working hard to support himself and his family. But a solid work ethic is not reserved for the marketplace. It also involves the effort we put into being a husband and father. It has its own set of rewards for the home. So, as men of God, our pursuit of His plan—inside and outside the home—is a pursuit that requires diligence.

Ill-equipped and overwhelmed? If you’re like most dads and feel like you aren’t the right man for the job. Remember that God called you to be the husband and dad in your family. He didn’t call some other guy. There’s only one perfect father, and it’s not you or me. God sets your example. Pastor Dave reminded me: God is more concerned with your direction than He is your perfection. God was full of grace, discipline, and unconditional love. Live those things out this week—at home, in your marriage, and with your life. Watching Ordinary Angels won’t hurt either. ; )