One of my favorite things to do is meet with someone who possesses deep wisdom and isn’t afraid to share it. Last week, I met with a man named John. H “been there and done that” from a business standpoint, and he’s had to endure more than his fair share of trials in this life. Yet, his joyous spirit and willingness to speak into the lives of others is inspiring. As we met, I said something about a difficulty in my life. He said, “Why are you hung up on that? It sounds like a self-limiting belief that you’re convinced is true.” He wouldn’t let it go. He was determined to make me look inside and ask myself why I was sure something wouldn’t work for me. I’ve been thinking about it ever since. I wonder, what old scripts are you still believing? What self-limiting stories are you telling yourself? Paul wrote to the Philippians, “…one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus…” (Phil 3:13-14). Dad, don’t feel shackled by your past. And, don’t let your kids handcuff themselves in that way either.

Time management skills for busy lifestyles: If you have a busy lifestyle, be sure to schedule in breaks. This may sound counterproductive, but it can actually make you more effective. It will help with your concentration and get you reenergized when your battery is running low.

How husbands can help their wives to cultivate mother-child relationships: Husbands have a unique role in ensuring their kids treat mom with the utmost respect and dignity. When they give her lip, we’re there to reinforce her authority. And being a cultivator not only applies to bad behavior, but we can also promote good behavior and encourage acts of compassion. Team up with your kids and try buying her flowers and surprise her with her favorite snack. Those moments will not only instill godly principles in our kids, but they will also be a catalyst for a greater mother-child connection.

“The future starts today, not tomorrow.” – Pope John Paul II

“Through salvation our past has been forgiven, our present is given meaning, and out future is secured.” – Rick Warren

“Leave the broken, irreversible past in God’s hands, and step out into the invincible future with Him.” – Oswald Chambers

“Whenever I think of the past, it brings back so many memories.” – Steven Wright

Listen for the script. This week, listen for the scripts that you’re still believing from the past. You’re not good enough. You’ll never overcome [that] struggle. You just can’t repair [that] relationship. You weren’t raised by parents who could [whatever], so you’re stuck forever. These kinds of scripts have something in common: they discount the power of God! If you’re feeling especially brave, pull your wife or older kids in on the play and ask them to help you listen. When you find those old scripts, hold them up to the light of the gospel and watch them melt away.

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.