If there’s one thing the new year always helps me see, it’s that I have no idea what the coming year will bring. Last year, I had unexpected challenges and blessings. I’m confident this coming year will be no different. One thing I can bet on though, if I aim to be a godly dad, I will be opposed. And, my temptation is to see the people around me, sometimes, as the opposition. Yet, I’m learning with every passing year who the real enemy is. Satan himself. My wife and kids are not the enemy. My work problems aren’t the enemy. People who hold different political views are note my enemy. As Paul reminded us, “…we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against…the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Eph 6:12) This year, as you battle for your own holiness, your family’s unity, and your work’s effectiveness, rememberer, the people around you aren’t your enemy. As my pastor Kyle Idleman said a couple months ago, “Our real enemy would love nothing more than for us to go to battle against the wrong enemy.” Dad, stay on guard!

Why am I so angry? Stress could be the reason you get so angry. And it’s everywhere. Even guys who taste test ice cream for a living and win the lottery have stress in their lives. Undealt with pressure and stress are notorious for bringing anger along with them.

Is your mouth a fountain of life? Dad, understanding the power of our words is crucial. Would you define what comes out of your mouth as a “fountain of life”? Have your words been encouraging? Do you reflect God’s righteous example in what you say? These are very powerful and undoubtedly tough questions. Nobody’s perfect at this. Yet, our goal as encouraging fathers is to become a verbal reminder of God’s love and joy in the lives of our family. Let’s explore how to do that.

“It is much easier to do battle with society and with others than to fight our own nature.” Dennis Prager

“The battle is lost or won in the secret places of the will before God, never first in the external world.” – Oswald Chambers

“Most of us aren’t defeated in one decisive battle. We are defeated one tiny, seemingly insignificant surrender at a time that chips away at who we should really be.” Navy SEAL, Jocko Willink

Do battle. You won’t have to go looking for it, spiritual battles will find you this year. The question is not whether or not you will face battles, but whether or not you will face them. Really face them. With God’s armor, prayer, the power of the Holy Spirit and God’s Word – we can win our battles. This week, ask God to steel you for the battles coming your way. And ask Him to give you clarity on what those are so you’re not fighting the wrong enemies.

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

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.