I was reading Psalm 2 recently, and I wondered, “Why does this sound so familiar?” It says, in part, “The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, ‘Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.'” I thought of our modern culture and leaders striving to silence those with whom they disagree. (Note: screaming at them louder won’t move the needle.) Prayer is our weapon, love is our method and God’s power is our salvation. There’s nothing new under the sun.

I hear from tons of dads who struggle with connecting with their kids on the communication front. My friend Tom Harper wrote our newest post not only to combat bad communication but to help you remember what you should be doing. Hint: you have to become a better question asker-er. Find 5 steps to more meaningful conversations with your kids.

1. “My courage is only as good as what I’ve put my confidence in. Discouragement is an indication of misplaced confidence.” – Kyle Idleman

2. “Only when sin breaks our hearts will the coming of the Messiah excite our hearts.”  – Paul David Tripp

3. Shared breakfast last week with three other men. One guy was seeking feedback, and we traded ideas, prayers, and counsel. I’m a better man for having listened in. Hope you have access to the wisdom of other men. (Shameless plug for my first book, not even gonna hide it)

Chase humility. In light of my overt self-promotion, let’s talk about humility, I’m great at it. 🙂 I was on a call last month with a guy who’d achieved success in one arena. His entire world revolved around that one arena. I got the sense he believed everyone else’s did too. Are you a big shot (in your church, company, or community)? Remember, there are probably (roughly) 7 billion people who don’t report to you and have never heard of you. Dad: stay humble. Point your family to Jesus. Let’s have HIS NAME resound after our time on earth is done, not our own.

Make it a great week,

Kent Evans
Author of the 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.