Take every thought captive! Lean on the truth of who God is.

When that butterfly in our stomach feeling comes, we need to take every thought captive rather than allowing negative self-talk and lies to create anxiety and fear!

‘We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. And after you have become fully obedient, we will punish everyone who remains disobedient. ‘

2 Corinthians 10:3-6

So let’s be the dads who turn to God’s Word as our source and our map that will lead and guide us all the days of our lives!

Today’s Verse of the Day:

For example, let’s be the dads who shepherd our families. Firstly, let’s be the dads who feed our families. Secondly, let’s be the dads who guide our families. Thirdly, let’s be the dads who are protecting and shielding our families. Finally, let’s be the dads whose families have no wants because God as our Shepherd had enabled us to be the shepherds of our families.

So how can we apply today’s verse of the day to help us take every thought captive and be the dads God created and purposed for us to be? It’s a lifelong journey! Lean on God’s grace, seek His wisdom, and allow His Word to guide your steps as you strive to raise your children in a way that honors Him.

Applying Psalms 23:1 to help us be the dads God created us to be while we take every thought captive and submitted to God:

• Trust in God’s Provision: Recognize that God is our provider, and as dads, we can trust in His provision for our families. This trust helps us avoid excessive worry about material possessions and focus on being present and caring for our children.
• Seek God’s Guidance: Just as a shepherd guides and leads his sheep, we should seek God’s guidance in all aspects of fatherhood. Regularly spend time in prayer, seeking wisdom and direction for the decisions you need to make as a dad.
• Cultivate Contentment: Instead of constantly chasing after worldly success or possessions, embrace contentment in the role God has given you as a dad. Find joy in the simple blessings of family and focus on building strong relationships with your children.
• Practice Patience: A shepherd patiently leads and cares for his flock. Similarly, as fathers, we need to cultivate patience with our children. Recognize that they are growing and learning, and guide them with love, grace, and patience.
• Nurture and Protect: Like a shepherd who protects his sheep from harm, dads are called to nurture and protect their children. Create a safe and loving environment where your children can grow and thrive physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
• Be a Role Model: As dads, we are influential figures in our children’s lives. Live out your faith and values, demonstrating integrity, kindness, and compassion. Show them what it means to follow Christ and be a man of character.
• Provide Emotional Support: Just as a shepherd cares for the emotional well-being of his sheep, be emotionally available for your children. Listen to their concerns, fears, and joys, and provide a safe space for them to express their emotions.
• Teach God’s Word: The role of a shepherd is to guide and instruct the sheep. As dads, we have the responsibility to teach our children about God’s Word and help them grow in their faith. Share biblical truths and stories, and help them apply those principles to their lives.
• Show Unconditional Love: God’s love for us is unconditional, and we should strive to demonstrate the same love to our children. Love them unconditionally, affirm them, and forgive them when they make mistakes. Create an atmosphere of love and acceptance in your home.
• Prioritize Spiritual Growth: Recognize that being a dad is not just about providing for physical needs but also nurturing their spiritual growth. Encourage regular family devotionals, attend church together, and model a personal relationship with God.