Being a dad kinda feels like God’s little way of reminding us that we can’t do everything on our own. Psalm 146:5-9 points us to the God who helps, keeps His Word, and truly cares.

#1 God helps. “Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God.” Why does being a dad seem to reveal how little control we actually have?! Your education, job experience, plans, and bank account can only carry you so far.

Psalm 146 reminds us that God is able and willing to help. We simply need to place our hope in Him instead of all the other junk we place ahead of Him. Your family doesn’t need you to hold all the answers. You just gotta know where to point your kids for the hope you have.

#2 God doesn’t change. “…who made heaven and earth…who keeps faith forever…” God isn’t limited, distracted, or late. He made heaven, earth, and the sea, things folks during this time feared. And He “keeps faith forever.” Whatever your fear today, God has the power to help.

You’ll have bad days and frustrations that even a Snickers bar can’t fix. It’s alright. Your kids’ confidence shouldn’t come from you; it should come from the God who doesn’t change.

#3 God cares. “[The LORD] executes justice for the oppressed…gives food to the hungry…lifts up those who are bowed down…upholds the widow and the fatherless…” Your kids are constantly learning what God is like by watching how you treat people.

Psalm 146 shows the God who sees the overlooked, helps the hurting, feeds the hungry, and cares about the fatherless and the widow. God runs to the need, not away from it. Your kids should see you do the same. Make sure you notice needs and take care of folks.

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“We can have no security from gifts, labors, services, or past experiences; but that from first to last our only safety is in the power, compassion, and faithfulness of our great Redeemer.” —John Newton

This week, name one thing you’ve been trying to carry by yourself. Give it to God and ask Him for the help Psalm 146 promises. Then think of one person your family can encourage or serve together.

Explain to your kids that trusting God changes both where you turn for help and how you treat the people around you. Take your kid along and say why you’re helping. Make it simple and make it about God.

Throughout this week, remember that God wants to help, that He never changes, and that He cares for you. And He wants you to show that same care to those around you.

Kent Evans
Executive Director at 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.