Jesus uses a simple construction idea to make a point in Luke 14:28–30. Following Him requires everything. For the godly dad, being a disciple isn’t just a choice, but a daily example you’re constructing with your life for those who live with you.

#1 Sit down and count the cost. Jesus says a wise builder sits down first. This doesn’t sound impulsive—it sounds intentional. Sitting down and counting the cost means slowing down long enough to seek God and allow Him to reconfigure your priorities, your schedule, and your budget.

Think about budgeting for a home renovation—you wouldn’t demo a wall until you’ve calculated all of the expenses. Counting the cost will save you from later regrets. Your life shouldn’t look like a quest for constant busyness, but a calm and purposeful pursuit.

#2 Whether he has enough to complete it. The issue Jesus raises is not desire, but endurance. Most guys may start a race strong, but few will finish faithfully.

The godly dad perseveres—he doesn’t rely on emotion alone. This may mean that you decide on some non-negotiables for your morning habits, like what rhythms you will create and keep—Bible reading, prayer, journaling—these things should be habits in your life.

#3 Laid a foundation and is not able to finish. An unfinished build stirs up questions and confusion. If you say one thing but do another, you seem divided to those who know you. Jesus warns us that a divided heart can damage your credibility—your witness for Him.

Closer to home, a divide between what you say and what you do will confuse your family. Your example shows your family what you’re committed to every single day. Will your life be worth following or not?

7 Spiritual Warfare Prayers for Your Family: As dads, it’s easy to focus on the battles we can see, while missing the ones quietly aimed at our homes. These prayers help anchor a home in Christ.

How To Cross The Barrier From Being Overwhelmed to Intentional As A Dad: In this behind-the-scenes episode, Lawson and I pull back the curtain on how the Father On Purpose episodes actually get shaped. We talk through how we decide what to cover and how we plan each episode without them sounding scripted.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: “Salvation is free, but discipleship will cost you your life.”

What does counting the cost look like as a dad?

Following God has no limits. He calls us to give Him everything, including our wants—our very selves. We want to rush, He says sit down. We want to wing it, He says count the cost. God warns not against starting, but against starting without finishing. For us dads, being a disciple isn’t just a private decision—our families are watching.

Count the cost. Ask yourself: What will following Jesus cost? Will it cost your comfort, schedule, and priorities? If you haven’t named the cost, you may not be ready to pay it.

Decide to finish. Your kids don’t need a perfect dad; they need a faithful one. Commit to practices you can sustain over the long haul—Scripture reading, prayer, and church.

Be the example. Your life can confuse your family about faith or make it very clear. Build a life that is committed to finishing the faith well—a life that invites your kids to follow.

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.