You don’t have to have it all figured out to lead your family well. God’s not asking for perfection. He calls you to show up, to be intentional, and to stay faithful where you are. Let’s look at what 1 Thessalonians 2:11–12 has to say.

#1 Exhort. “[W]e exhorted each one of you…” Exhorting is about calling your kids forward. It’s about helping them step into who they should become. It’s not just cheering. You’re giving direction when it matters.

Your kids need to hear your voice, but not just for lectures. Point out what you see in them. Then remind them who they are because they’ll forget. Over time, your words have the power to shape how they see themselves.

#2 Encourage. “…and encouraged you…” Encouragement is giving courage when life crushes it. It’s not a one-time thing. It’s something you do over and over. Your family needs continual support, not just with words when things are going well. They need to hear your belief in them, especially when they’re struggling.

Don’t assume they know. Over time, your voice becomes something they stand on. Sometimes, we dads can get too quiet, but consistent encouragement can change everything at home.

#3 Charge. “…and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God…” Charging your family forward does not mean fixing everything. You simply need to show up and walk with them through whatever is going on. That doesn’t mean just comforting and saying nice things. It means you lead. You point your family to God.

Stay steady, point them to His Word, and model what it looks like to follow Him every day.

How to Write a Letter to Your Dad: With Father’s Day coming up, a handwritten letter is a good idea😉. Here are some starting points, from seeking reconciliation to telling your dad how grateful you are for him.

Trusting the Architect to Build Long After We’re Gone: Lawson filmed a couple of videos outside a 700-year-old Cathedral while traveling, and it turned into a talk about legacy, faithfulness, and why the work you do as a dad is never wasted.

“You can’t play the man if you don’t pray the price. That’s how God turns the heart. You’ll never be a perfect parent, but you can be a praying parent. And prayer is what turns ordinary parents into prophets who shape the destiny of their children.” —Mark Batterson

This week, pick one thing (exhort, encourage, charge) and go for it. Send the text, have the conversation, speak the word. Don’t overthink it.

A good dad shows up with support and direction. Your leadership shapes how your family lives. You’re not aiming for perfect moments; you’re building something that reflects God.

Start small, be consistent, and remember: you don’t have what it takes on your own, and that’s exactly why you need to rely on God for this.

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.