What if your kids didn’t need better grades or bigger gifts? What if all they needed was a dad whose life was shaped by Scripture? Let’s unpack 3 core ingredients of biblical fatherhood.

#1 Encouragement. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Eph. 6:4).

I’ve seen so many dads outsource parenting. Long hours at work can turn into neglect at home. A season may demand it, but resist the seasons becoming decades. It isn’t the children’s pastor or grandparents’ job to raise your kids. God calls you to bring them up—to nourish and care. Discipline and instruction is about training, counsel, and teaching. All require your example and consistency.

#2 Guidance. You shall teach them diligently to your children…when you sit…when you walk…when you lie down…when you rise (Deut. 6:7).

Your kids are a mirror of you—what you watch, what you think is funny—everything shows what you value. God calls you to teach all day—at home, on the road, lying down, getting up. Make it normal: God’s Word in you first, then pointing to God during meals and on car rides will feel more natural.

#3 Happiness. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice (Phil. 4:4).

Your home will track with your attitude. Plenty of reasons to be sad, but God doesn’t say, “rejoice when life’s perfect.” He says, “rejoice always.” Joy is commanded. Real joy isn’t getting what you want—it’s knowing you deserve nothing and God gives you everything—Himself. Build in rhythms: a quick thanks at breakfast—a short praise at dinner. Don’t fake happy; be honest, be hopeful. Even on tough days, you can find joy in Him. Let your kids see that joy in you.

7 Bible Verses to Heal Damaged Marriages: In some ways, marriage is like a rollercoaster. It has a lot of ups and downs, twists and turns. Sometimes, it might make you dizzy or sick to your stomach. But the only people who really get hurt are the ones who try to get off the ride. If you’re thinking about getting off the rollercoaster of a damaged marriage, take some time to reflect on what the Bible says about your relationship with your wife. The Scriptures for marriage found in this article can give you a new focus and get you moving toward help and healing.

Three Key Ingredients of Biblical Fatherhood: What separates a good dad from a biblical one? In this power-packed episode, we unpack three essential ingredients every dad needs to lead with purpose and raise kids who follow Christ. Whether you’re a first-time father or a battle-tested veteran, you’ll find timeless wisdom, practical tools, and a few good laughs. This episode captures the heart of Father On Purpose—encouraging, equipping, and challenging you to become the kind of father your kids will thank God for. Don’t miss this challenge. Don’t settle for less.

Howard Hendricks: “You cannot impart what you do not possess.”

George Mueller: “The first great and primary business…every day was to have my soul happy in the Lord.”

Daniel Akin: “Have fun and talk about Jesus a lot.”  

Pick one—and do it today.

Encouragement: Name one negative thing you tend to do with your kids (comparison, inconsistency, harsh tone). Repent to God and apologize to your kid. Make time for a walk and talk and give some positive comments—the more detailed the better.

Guidance: Start a “Daily 3”: read a Proverb at breakfast, say a one-sentence prayer, and post one takeaway on the fridge for your family to see each day.

Happiness: Set a weekly family night. Be fully present—not just box-checking—but real laughter, play, and let your kids see true thankfulness in you. Let’s go.

Kent Evans
Author of Don’t Bench Yourself, co-founder of Manhood Journey

P.S. Was this Mountain Monday helpful? Tell me if you love it, hate it, or if there’s something you’d like in the next one.

Forward this to a dad you know who needs some encouragement.