Ever considered being a part of a community for dads where you can support and find support from other dads when you are facing challenges or struggling times? Do you realize that we were never meant to go it alone? No matter if you are a person considering being a dad, a new dad, or an experienced dad, don’t do life alone! Wondering what options you have? Do you realize there are communities? Would you consider emailing [email protected] and ask to join a group or subscribe to this blog using the Subscribe widget on the right? If you are reading this article, you must have been drawn to consider it.
As I started to answer the call from God to start BeTheDads.com, I started searching for what’s out there. I not only have over a year of posts and connections with people who’ve written devotionals for dads but also connected with some Washington State people about their programs and even more organizations for dads too. Do you realize the benefit of community? Yesterday during a week of Prayer and Fasting, one of the churches board members took on the topic of “Growing in Community”. Let me share some of the notes I took away from the session.
My Notes: (Benefits of Community)
African proverb tells us
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.“
10 African Proverbs, Their Origin, and Meaning
The Bible Speaks the following about “Growing in Community”
Community Encourages:
‘And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. ‘
Hebrews 10:24-25
‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ‘
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Community is Fun: (providing joy and hope)
‘How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! ‘
‘Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice. ‘
Proverbs 27:9
Community Attracts the Holy Spirit:
‘For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” ‘
Matthew 18:20
‘Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. ‘
Galatians 6:2
Community Fosters Love:
‘Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. ‘
1 Peter 3:8
‘Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. ‘
Romans 12:16
Community: Practical Applications for Dads to Fulfill God’s Calling
1. Build a Supportive Community Around You
- Application: Join or create a small group for dads, such as the one mentioned at BeTheDads.com, where fathers can share struggles, victories, and wisdom. Consider reaching out via [email protected] to join or start one.
- Scripture Basis: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.“ (Hebrews 10:24-25)
- Key Takeaway: Consistent fellowship with other fathers will provide encouragement and accountability to live out your role with love and perseverance.
2. Model and Teach Love in Action
- Application: Demonstrate patience, kindness, and humility with your wife and children, reflecting God’s love in your family relationships. Discuss how love protects and perseveres with your family in family devotions.
- Scripture Basis: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud…“ (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
- Key Takeaway: A dad who embodies biblical love creates an environment where his wife and children feel secure, valued, and cherished.
3. Prioritize Fun and Joyful Togetherness
- Application: Schedule regular family activities and participate in a community group for families to enjoy shared experiences. Create traditions that emphasize unity and joy, like game nights or collaborative service projects.
- Scripture Basis: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!“ (Psalms 133:1)
- Key Takeaway: Shared joy strengthens family bonds and reflects God’s delight in unity.
4. Invite God’s Presence into Your Family Life
- Application: Pray together as a family, especially during times of need or decision-making. Encourage your family to invite the Holy Spirit’s guidance in daily life by praying before meals, bedtime, and big events.
- Scripture Basis: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20)
- Key Takeaway: A dad who fosters an atmosphere of prayer and dependence on God will help his family feel spiritually anchored.
5. Carry One Another’s Burdens
- Application: Actively support your wife and children in their emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges. Teach your kids to serve each other and others by modeling acts of service within the home and community.
- Scripture Basis: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.“ (Galatians 6:2)
- Key Takeaway: Dads who step in to bear burdens show Christ-like love and compassion, creating a culture of care in the home.
6. Cultivate Harmony and Humility
- Application: Resolve conflicts promptly and seek reconciliation with your wife and children. Be willing to admit mistakes and lead your family with a humble heart.
- Scripture Basis: “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.“ (1 Peter 3:8)
- Key Takeaway: Dads who model humility and harmony create a safe and peaceful home environment.
Summary of Practical Steps:
- Engage in Community: Participate in a dads’ group for mutual encouragement.
- Show Love in Action: Demonstrate biblical love through patience, kindness, and forgiveness.
- Prioritize Joyful Togetherness: Build unity through fun, shared experiences.
- Invite God’s Presence: Pray and seek God’s guidance with your family.
- Support Each Other: Bear one another’s burdens in everyday challenges.
- Model Humility and Peace: Lead by example in resolving conflicts and valuing harmony.
By applying these principles, dads can fulfill God’s calling and purpose in their lives, becoming the fathers their wives, children, and this world need them to be.
Are you a dad who needs help? Could you be a dad that helps? Are you a dad who could appreciate a network of dads to bounce ideas off of and talk? Feel free to email me at the alias above or subscribe to get the latest posts.
