Jesus asked questions even when He knew the answers. Why? Asking questions can humble someone, build trust, and cut to the soul. James 1:19 shows us how to ask better questions: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.

#1 Quick to hear. Wisdom is tethered to listening. You learn when you slow down and listen instead of talking or acting first. Simple huh?! The godly dad has ears quick to recognize elevated emotions in his kids. Listening to your kids starts with listening to God’s Word.

#2 Slow to speak. Some of us are prone to come to meetings and conversations—and yes—even Scripture, ready to argue whatever’s said. My translation of slow to speak is “listen to understand.” If you’re slow to speak, there’s time when you’re NOT speaking. Interesting. You’re careful with your words. A good word badly timed doesn’t give the fruit it could.

#3 Slow to anger. Not listening and instead, just spewing your thoughts and opinions is the best way to generate anger—in yourself and others. James calls us to righteousness, not anger. Think about it: if you lived out quick to hear and slow to speak—doesn’t that sound like peace?!

Spiritual Disciplines to Grow Your Faith: Nobody really likes the idea of “discipline.” The very word is enough to send shivers down our spines. But, when it comes to growing as a Christ follower, spiritual disciplines are an absolute must. For too long, the Christian disciplines have been given lip service (at best) or brushed to the side (at worst). It’s time for a revival of these practices in our lives as men of God. This article explains what makes spiritual disciplines for the Christian life important and identifies some basic practices we can begin today.

Blake asks THE BEST questions: Ever notice how Jesus, the all-knowing Son of God, still asked questions? In this episode of Father on Purpose, we unpack how asking the right questions—like our friend Blake models so well—can shape you into a wiser, humbler, and more impactful dad. Drawing from Proverbs 18:15 and 20:5, Kent explores how curiosity is not weakness—it’s leadership. Learn how asking the right questions can deepen relationships, spark spiritual growth, and equip you to disciple your family more effectively. This week, choose the path of curiosity—and watch what God reveals.

David Platt: “We are not quick to hear and slow to speak but loathe to listen and anxious to argue.”

Questions influence. You understand how powerful questions are. So ask yourself and your family a few questions.

#1 Quick to hear: Are you quick to hear God’s Word? Or are you quick to find excuses and argue with Him?

#2 Slow to speak: Ask your family: What’s one high, one low, and one need? Listen first—don’t speak or try to fix. Listen with your eyes too. Get off your phone and make eye contact.

#3 Slow to anger: Next time you’re about to argue, try counting to five before saying anything. Then ask a question like: Can you help me understand…? Then, truly listen.

The dad who listens, speaks the right words at the right time, and is not easily angered—that’s the dad your family needs right now.

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.