A lot of spiritual discipleship is done through osmosis. We absorb habits, priorities, and knowledge from those we’re around. Similarly, our kids are osmosing from us (actually a word, I too was shocked). For engaged dads, that’s both good and bad news. In one sense, I’m glad my boys might pick up my faith and worldview. In another sense, I’m not excited my boys will snag some of my selfishness or tendency to be angry. Even so, I must accept my role as a key osmoter (ok, that’s not a word) in the lives of my family. Shortly after Paul met Timothy, Acts 16:3 tells us that, “Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him…” Paul needed Timothy around him in order to disciple him effectively. As we are leading our families, day in and day out, they’re picking up what we’re giving off. For better or worse.

Anxious feelings are becoming a real problem for the youth in our country. Knowing the possible causes or triggers that bring your kids worry can help you help them. Environmental factors and life situations such as divorce, sickness, death of a loved one, violence, and unhealthy authority figures can all cause anxious feelings. Here are 6 ways dads can help kids face anxiety.

How to stop playing the no-win comparison game as a dad: Comparison is a no-win game for dads. We can often focus on how much money we make (compared to…) or whether we have sent our kids to the right school (compared to…). However, comparison can get us way off track. Instead, let’s ask ourselves: am I being faithful to the tasks God has set before me?

“We teach what we know, but we reproduce what we are.” – John Maxwell

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” – Ronald Reagan

'Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.' – Robert Fulghum Share on Twitter

Osmotify. Now, I’m just making stuff up. But, here’s the idea. This week, get some people—your kids, that young guy you’re mentoring, a colleague—just to spend some additional time with you. See if you can “rub off” on them in a positive way. Sure, you’re not the end-all-be-all, but I bet you’re more of a positive influence than you realize. Bring ’em close, see what happens.

Make it a great week,

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.