If you’re in need of some added humility this week, go read Psalm 127. (If you don’t need more humility, perhaps we have other issues to discuss). “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” This Psalm reminds dads of many things. Clearly, if God’s not building our home, we’re laboring in vain. We need His favor and protection if we’re to harvest fatherhood fruit. We don’t create blessings, we enjoy those He gives us. Yet, we often do labor in vain. Our kids follow suit. We unwittingly convince them to chase grades, popularity, wealth or success (we’re busy chasing the big boy varieties of the same things). Yet, we ignore the hand of God that is graciously giving us all we need. We focus on the gift, rather than the giver. Interestingly, in that same Psalm, God reminds us where our kids come from. They too are a gift from the Lord! Hmm. Seems like all this is connected, right?

How to read the Bible in 5 easy steps: If you want to learn how to read the Bible but don’t know where to start, start with the stories. Genesis, Exodus, and Judges are all books full of stories about God calling and establishing His people. The gospels tell first-hand accounts of Jesus’ encounters with His disciples, adversaries, and other people. Acts tells the story of how the Christian church began to spread. Start with one of these books and learn the stories of God.

Does prayer really “work”? A lot of dads have wondered if prayer actually works? Maybe you’ve asked the same thing. Which leads us to ask: What do we mean by “work”? One guarantee we have from the Bible is that when we pray, the peace of God will always guard our hearts and minds. We don’t need to be anxious. We just need to go to the Father in prayer.

“A Latin motto says, Nisi Dominus Frusta. It comes from the first words of psalm 127 and means ‘Without the Lord, Frustration.’ It is the motto of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland, appearing on its crest, and is affixed to the city’s official documents. It could be attached to the lives of many who are trying to live their lives without the Almighty.” – James Montgomery Boice

Praise the builder. I was on a call with a friend recently. He said, “If God’s in it, I’m in it. If He’s not, I’m not.” What a great way to view choices and opportunities. Dad, guess what? God is IN you building your house. Not so much that “bonus sunroom” you’re contemplating, but, the spiritual house that you’re leading with your wife and kids. He is definitely in that, and this week, I challenge you to praise and thank Him for the work He is doing!

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.