Satan hates fatherhood. Why? Because Satan knows, he gets the dad, he gets the family. First John 4:4 says, “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” Remember three truths when life gets the toughest.

#1 “You are from God.” You’ve already won the battle by knowing God. You’re the spiritual leader of your home, reflecting God’s love and truth. Satan wants God’s image—fatherhood. Satan wants your kids. Satan wants YOU. Despite distractions, when you remember whose you are, you can point your family to God.

#2 “You have overcome them.” As a believer, God has already won the battle—and so have you. Satan tries to distract you, but no matter what the world throws at you, God’s power is greater. Let God shape your thoughts and actions. You can overcome anything; not because you’re so amazing, but because God is. Your kids are facing a world of pressures, but they don’t have to follow them. Trust that God is with them and you, giving what you need when you need it.

#3 “For he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” As a believer, you have power in God’s presence. It’s not because you’re so smart, good-looking, or so skilled, but because God is greater than anything in this world. Satan only seems powerful, he’s no match for God. Satan can hate you; but remember, God loves you more.

How Did Jesus Handle Conflict: Benjamin Franklin was famous for saying that the only certainties in life are death and taxes. But, as most of us understand all too well, we can add “conflict” to the list. As broken people living in a broken world, conflict becomes a matter of “when,” not “if.” That’s why we need a reliable template for dealing with the disputes and disruptions we face. Scripture gives us that perfect model through the life of Jesus.

Is Being a Biblically Grounded Dad Getting Harder?: Being a godly dad is tough. No one who’s been down that road would argue with you there. However, it’s easy to fall into the “good old days” trap of thinking this is just a recent development. Instead of trying to figure out who’s had it the hardest over the course of history, let’s make sure we understand why it’s so hard: because Satan doesn’t like godly dads discipling their kids. If you’re a dad, we’ve got news for you. You’re in a fight, and your enemy is the Enemy. However, God will equip you to take on these challenges as you trust in him. Today, let’s confront the enemy’s attacks on us and our families through the power of God’s Word.

Douglas Malloch: “Father of fathers, make me one, a fit example for a son.”

Uphill Battle. Being a dad can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to follow the world’s path. But as you walk with God, you’ll feel His strength, a strength only from Him. God wants more than your money, more than your job, more than your current struggle. He wants YOU. Give it all to Him. Your kids need the godly dad you can be. Ask yourself: what will I change now that I know 1 John 4:4? Ask for God’s help to lead your wife and kids faithfully this week. Go be greater than the world—be godly.

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.