Ever feel like you’re your own worst enemy? As husbands and dads, we face a daily struggle against our pride and selfishness. James 4:6 says, “But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’” Let’s look at this verse. #1 But He gives more grace. Reminder: sin is overcome by God’s grace—and His grace is never exhausted. He never stops pursuing you. Yes, you’ll fall short; but His grace is greater than your shortcomings. Fight the battle of pride with humility. #2 Therefore it says, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. With your family, you can be an example of humility or pride. You can recognize when your pride takes over. In an argument, are you slow or quick to apologize? When you make a mistake, do you acknowledge it or passively glaze over it? How much of your time away from your family at work is spent meeting basic needs versus trying to handle everything on your own? Have you forgotten how good God’s grace is? The more you’re able to be humble, admit mistakes, and ask for forgiveness—the better example you’ll be for your wife, kids, and those who know you. Do this and you’ll look different than the world—you’ll look like Christ instead.

How to Build Trust as a Parent: Trust isn’t automatic—it’s earned over time, especially in parenting. If you want your kids to trust you, it starts with showing up. That means being physically present, emotionally available, and spiritually engaged. Trust deepens when you lead by example, listen before you speak, and keep your promises—even the small ones. But don’t forget the power of being real. Your kids don’t need a perfect dad; they need an honest one. And one of the best ways to build their trust? Show them you trust them, too. Trust breeds trust—and that’s how strong families are built.

Why Humility Matters So Much: In a world that challenges us to “look out for No. 1,” humility can be hard to come by. Especially for guys, putting the needs of others above our own plans and desires can feel unnatural. We’re tempted to write it off as a quaint concept held over from a simpler time. Truth is, genuine humility never goes out of style. It’s an eternal virtue that draws people to Jesus because it reflects His character. And, as we’ll see in Proverbs 12, it’s a character quality God expects men who follow Him to nurture in their lives.

“It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” — Saint Augustine

Go to war. This week, let’s go to war with pride. Lean into God’s grace. See yourself as He sees you. Then, believe it so much that it humbles you and you live out this grace—humbly—in front of those who live with you. If you say or do something you shouldn’t, be quick to run toward grace and make it right. Actively listen to your wife and kids. Value their insight. Sit down, be still, and be humble. Humility will open God’s grace to pour out of your conversations and interactions. God can transform you and then your family. You got this.

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.

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