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Overcoming 6 Big “Dad Challenges”

Hey Dad,

Are you ready to unleash your God-powered inner strength and conquer the challenges of fatherhood? Take a quick minute to read this short but powerful article created just for you…to HELP YOU WIN at being a dad!

Being a dad is the most rewarding yet challenging thing you’ll ever do. But you’re not alone. God’s got you! Below are some parenting obstacles that we as dads face. Each one is matched with a powerful Scripture to help you overcome these hurdles with unwavering resolve, so you can become the resilient, mighty father your family needs.

Challenge 1: Balancing Work & Family

Truth: Matthew 6:33 (NLT) “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” Trust that as you prioritize God and align your life with His will, He will provide the strength and resources necessary to balance your work and family responsibilities.

Challenge 2: Your Fatherly Role & Expectations

Truth: Proverbs 22:6 (NLT) “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” You are the greatest influential guide in your child’s life. Trust in the power of your role as Dad to shape and guide them. Take comfort in knowing that your efforts to raise them in the ways of the Lord will have a lasting impact on their lives.

Challenge 3: Financial Pressures & Providing For Your Family

Truth: Philippians 4:19 (NLT) “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Remember that He is faithful and the ultimate source of your provision. As you work for and manage your resources well, God will provide for you and your family according to His abundant riches.

Challenge 4: Emotional Connection With Your Kids

Truth: Colossians 3:21 (NLT) “Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged.” Remember that your words and actions have a powerful impact on your child’s emotional well-being. Be intentional in fostering an environment of love, affirmation, and encouragement. Avoid behaviors that may discourage or harm their emotional connection with you. Your positive influence will help nurture a strong and healthy bond with your kids.

Challenge 5: Self-care & Personal Well-being

Truth: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NLT) “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.” Taking care of yourself is a way to honor your Creator. Prioritize physical and emotional self-care, recognizing that when you care for yourself, you can better help and love your family.

Challenge 6: Coping With Stress & Fatigue

Truth: Matthew 11:28-29 (NLT) “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you…and you will find rest for your souls.’” Find refreshment in Jesus. He offers rest to those who are exhausted. Take time to be in His presence, lean on His strength, and allow Him to lighten your load.

Know that you’re doing a much better job than you think. And remember that you’re not alone. God is with you every step of the way! Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

I hope these Scriptures and words of encouragement bring comfort, strength, and inspiration as you navigate the various challenges of being a dad. Now, it’s time to unleash the unstoppable force of fatherhood within you that’s powered by Jesus!

Author

  • Chris Reed | Pastor to Parents | Saddleback Church

    Chris married his beautiful bride, Tina, in 1990. They have three wonderful adult children, Jacob, Kaylee, and Macie Joy. Chris began pastoring at a church in Los Angeles in 1995 where he was the Children’s and Student Pastor. He was the Executive Pastor of Student Ministries at John Maxwell's church in South Florida before he came to Saddleback in 2008 as our Pastor to 20s/30s. He has since served as Pastor to Singles and Pastor to Marriages. He is currently our Pastor to Parents leading the charge for all things Parents Ministry at Saddleback. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies and his Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership.

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