“He made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the people of Israel” (Psalm 103:7). Moses saw how God operated, he was a friend of God, and understood God’s ways, not just God’s acts. This is essential for us dads. In our own lives, we need to adopt that Proverbs 16:9 mindset. We will have a plan, but acknowledge that God will direct our steps. So, when life doesn’t go as planned (can I get an amen, 2020?), the question is not, “Hey God, what in the world? This ain’t right.” The question is, “So God, how do you want this situation to teach, grow, and change me?” Show me Your ways. This example will trickle down to our kids. When God’s ways are twisty and turny, they won’t get bent outta shape.

What does your prayer life sound like? The godly dad prays with his family regularly and finds himself talking with God throughout the day. I’ve met a lot of dads over the years, I’m yet to meet a godly dad who isn’t about the business of praying fervently.

1. Had a long breakfast with Gregg Dedrick, former business executive and founder of Iron Bell Ministries. We talked about Psalm 103 and how God’s ways are almost never laid out in a straight line. He’s not interested in the shortest distance between two points. He’s interested in teaching us to trust Him. Reminded me of my stay in Jerusalem. The old city streets are always bending, curving, rising, and falling. Wonder if God is showing us a picture of His methods in the layout of that holy city?

2. My wife recently completed a Bible study. Afterward, she let me read her notes in it. As I did, I was exceedingly grateful for a wife who studies God’s word! Proverbs 31:26 If your wife’s studying her Bible, go give her a hug, kiss, or send her a text right now and thank her.

3. One day last week, I was simultaneously interacting with two men. One was a taker. Always talking about himself, his projects, and his life issues. I feel for that guy. The other was a giver. Always trying to find a way to help others. I wanna be like the second guy.

Ditch comfort. In our sermon this past weekend, our pastor said, “God’s not called you to be comfortable, but committed.” How about you, dad? Have you allowed comfort, convenience, or complacency to creep in and command your calendar? Are you so bored that you didn’t even notice I used six c-words in one sentence?! Wake up, man! Where is your life on autopilot? Have you cast off all risk, challenge, and uncertainty? Is it time for you to get uncomfortable?

Make it a great week,

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

P.S. Was this Mountain Monday helpful? Let me know what you think. Tell Ryan 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.