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Phillip Keller wrote about four ways of following God—and how they don’t work. Let’s break down Keller’s four ways (just remember the word DRED) and how Romans 12:12 shows us to live without DRED. Let’s go. #1 DUTY: “There are some who attempt to live their Christian lives out of a sense of duty to God…It becomes a dreadful burden and bondage.” Serving God shouldn’t be a downcast life. No, we rejoice in hope (Rom.12:12). Since you have confidence in Christ, your situation/circumstances are never final. You can have joy. #2 ROUTINE: “There are others who endeavor to maintain their relationship to God by ritual and routine. This degenerates to awful boredom.” Paul wrote be patient in tribulation (Rom.12:12). Life can get tough, but you find peace in God over anything else in this world. #3 EXPERIENCE: “Still others hope to live in spiritual communion with God by indulging in emotional, ecstatic experiences. These are delusive and temporary.” Paul explained we should be constant in prayer (Rom.12:12). Emotion is temporary. Experiences come and go and then you have nothing. Real life is in consistent prayer. #4 DETERMINATION: “A few struggle resolutely to live stoically with great self-discipline and inner determination of spirit. They grow weary in their well-doing.” You can’t be self-disciplined enough. Self-determination is the quickest way to burnout. Depend on God more and yourself less. God is the One Who does the work, never you. |
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YOU ARE MADE IN THE IMAGE OF GOD: If you’ve ever wondered what God looks like, the Bible says you can start by looking in the mirror. That’s because every human being carries the imago dei, the image of God, in their lives. Being created in God’s image means we have value and purpose beyond what we could ever imagine. It also means we have a responsibility to become more like Him each day and to point others toward Him, starting in our homes. |
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LEARNING TO CELEBRATE YOUR DAYS: The anonymous writer of Psalm 118 wrote that every day is a gift from God’s hand, so we should celebrate each one. That sounds great until the pressures of the world start putting the squeeze on our lives. It’s hard to maintain genuine joy and excitement about life when we’re bombarded by the stresses and struggles of daily existence. As men of God, it’s important for us—and our families—to stay connected to the only One who provides true meaning, purpose, and joy with every sunrise. |
GAIN INSIGHT
“The father who does not teach his son his duties is equally guilty with the son who neglects them.” —Confucius.
“The quality of a father can be seen in the goals, dreams, and aspirations he sets not only for himself but for his family.” —Reed Markham.
“Fatherhood is not about being perfect. It’s about being present, being loving, and being godly.” —Tony Dungy.
“A father’s words are like a thermostat that sets the temperature in the home.” —Paul David Tripp.
TAKE ACTION
Show God to your family. We often forget how much our lives and words can shape our kids. How you walk around the house matters. Do you follow God out of duty, routine, experiences, or self-determination? When your kid watches you, what’s he see? The goal should be that your kid doesn’t want what the world’s selling because he’s seen the godly version of life from you at home. You’ve got this. God has placed you right where He wants you. He calls you to show God to your family. If you don’t, who will?
Kent Evans
Author of Bring Your Hammer, 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.
