I own my home. I own my car. I own a set of golf clubs (they miss me). We use that word “own” a lot. Yet, Biblically speaking, we should probably stop using it. What we really mean is, “I steward.” I don’t really own anything, but I steward tons of stuff. It might be a physical asset (car, home, money, iPhone, health). Perhaps – more importantly – a relational or spiritual asset. These might be gifts God has given me or moments I have with people I’m coming across. As dads, we should routinely impress upon our children the stewardship they are entrusted with. At different times, I’ve told my boys, “God has given you some interesting gifts. Let’s figure out what He wants you to do with them.” 1 Pet 4:10 says, “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God.” When you’re properly stewarding your gifts (pop quiz: what % of them came from God?), you’re allowing God’s grace to flow through you and into the lives of others. Own that.

10 father and son activities that build forever bonds: If you are looking for an awesome father-son bonding opportunity, try tackling a “How to” job. Walking your son through a project on how to fix or build something not only sets up quality time but also teaches your son some life skills he’ll need for the future

How One Dad Sought Counsel from Another Dad: We’re surrounded by knowledge and expertise. We often don’t see it because we don’t ask for it. Tons of guys have been through (something like) what you’re going through. Let’s see how one dad sought input from another one. You’re only on this journey alone if you choose to be.

“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.” – Jim Valvano

“Artistic talent is a gift from God and whoever discovers it in himself has a certain obligation: to know that he cannot waste this talent, but must develop it.” – Pope John Paul II

(Below, an actual quote from a famous entertainer. I’m going to do you – and her – a favor and not cite the source. LOL!)

“I’m not really religious but very spiritual. I give money to this company that manufactures hearing aids on a regular basis. More people should really hear me sing. I have a gift from God.”

List 20 gifts. I dare you to take out your phone or a sheet of paper and try to list at least twenty gifts God has given you (some of us could easily list many more). They may be tangible things, life victories, relationships with people, or spiritual gifts. Then, as you list these gifts, visualize placing them on an altar and offering them up as a sacrifice to the LORD. What has He given you? How can you thank and praise Him for the gift? What does He want you to do with them?

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.