Some things in the Bible are incredibly ironic. Consider the disciples at the last supper in Luke 22. As Jesus is pouring out his heart and trying to prepare his key guys for what comes next, what do they do? Luke 22:24, “A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest.” WITW? We’re dealing with some major stuff here and these guys are arguing about who’s more or less important? Sheesh. Yet, even amidst this drama, Jesus gives them some groundbreaking news: “…I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” (Luke 22:29-30). They get kingdom authority? They’ll judge the twelve tribes?! He speaks life, hope and promise into their minds at the same dinner table where one guy’s about to betray him, another will deny him soon and some others are having a battle of egos. Have you ever been at the dinner table with some unruly kids? Maybe they’re fighting over chores, threatening to tell mom who clogged the toilet or rolling up their sleeves to see whose bicep is the biggest? Even then, you dad, can speak life into these kids. Don’t give up on them just because they act like, well, some disciples in training.

Kids and the negative effects of social media: Gossip, which has never had a problem getting around, has received an upgrade. Rumors can now spread faster than the speed of sound. Innocent reputations can be ruined with a simple lie and the press of a “send” button.

Bob Russell shares words of wisdom for fathers: “The best thing a father can do for his kids is to love their mother.” When kids see dad embrace their mom and treat her with dignity, it provides an unparalleled sense of security and stability in their lives. As the leader of our homes, we dads must be that godly example for our children every day. If we show them that the Lord matters more than sports, a career, or any political figure—they’ll walk throughout life with His Word as their compass.

“Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means.” – Ronald Reagan

“Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.” – Charles R. Swindoll

“Never have a battle of wits with an unarmed person.” – Mark Twain

Speak life. Even amidst the immaturity of youth (or adulthood!), we can find ways to speak life into our family. “Man, that horrible choice you made? At least you didn’t hesitate. You’re so decisive.” OK, kidding aside, sometimes our children will act like children. Yet, with God’s help, we can find a way to encourage them. Dad, this week, even if your kids aren’t on their best behavior, find some ways to use your words to speak life into those little rabble-rousers!

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.