I find myself fielding common questions from dads. In turn, I often share specific Bible verses to encourage, challenge or inform. Here are five I find myself repeating. Maybe one (or all?) of these will speak to something you’re walking through as a dad right now?

Prov 20:5 – “…purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water…”

Like a villager getting water, we must draw out the thoughts and intentions of those we want to love and help. Brilliant questions often trump expert advice. For the dad who is having trouble connecting with his kids.

Gal 6:9 – “…let us not grow weary of doing good…”

Being a godly father is hard work, we’re opposed spiritually at every turn. We must learn to persevere and never quit. Develop a posture of persistence. For the dad who is discouraged and downhearted.

John 16:13 – “…he will guide you into all the truth…”

We can try relying just on our own insights, but we often bump into limitations and skewed perspectives. The Holy Spirit helps by guiding us into all truth. For the dad who is confused or making a big decision.

James 3:17 – “…the wisdom from above is first pure…”

One thing we must chase as dads is wisdom. It’s not just experience, age, knowledge or even knowledge applied. It’s aligning our thoughts with God’s. For the dads who needs more wisdom in his life.

Rom 12:2 – “…be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”

This world tries to crush us from all sides as it seeks to shape us into its mold. The pressure can be intense, and we must our minds to discern God’s will. For the dad who’s battling the forces of this present world.

5 ways an absent father affects his children: Your presence and involvement in your kids’ lives make a huge difference in who they become and the choices they make. When you take a step away from the responsibilities of fatherhood, your kids take a step towards trouble.

The godly dad risks comfort to pursue calling: What makes you uncomfortable? For the vast majority of us dads, we face daily challenges that we must have the courage to overcome. We are asked on a daily basis to step into a spiritual battle with our children or to engage in conversations with our families about complex topics. And, of course, we’re asked to be honest and loving fathers, both of which require a big deal of courage in the face of life’s chaos. It’s important to tackle the tough conversations and challenges that arise each day. It’s even more important to have peace in the discomfort that comes from these situations.

“A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education.” – Theodore Roosevelt

“Within the covers of the Bible are the answers for all the problems men face.” – Ronald Reagan

“If you are ignorant of God’s Word, you will always be ignorant of God’s will.” – Billy Graham

Find that verse. What are you wrestling and struggling with today? Where have you turned for relief, guidance or insight? Hopefully, you’ve turned to God’s word in the Bible. It’s been written and compiled so that we would know Him and his ways and so that we would be instructed and encouraged. Whatever you’re up against today, let God’s word speak into your situation!

Kent Evans
Author of The Manhood Journey, co-founder of Manhood Journey and Father On Purpose.

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.