The world is confused about what strength looks like. It screams for dominance, toughness, and control—but mocks gentleness as weakness. As fathers, it’s our job to teach our children—especially our sons—that true strength isn’t about overpowering… it’s about knowing when to yield. Strength and gentleness aren’t opposites—they’re kingdom partners.
Our springboard for today’s discussion is:
“Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” — Proverbs 16:32 (ESV)
This verse flips the world’s idea of power on its head. Real strength? It’s not about conquering others—it’s about conquering yourself.
I’ve had to learn this one over time. Early on, I thought my role as a father meant being the loudest voice in the room. But the moments that shaped my kids most weren’t when I flexed power—it was when I showed restraint.
Gentleness isn’t weakness—it’s power under control. And the more I’ve embraced that, the more I’ve seen it shape the atmosphere of my home.
But I also want my kids to be bold. I want them to speak truth, stand up for the broken, lead with confidence. That kind of boldness isn’t born from ego—it’s born from identity.
So how do we teach both? We model it.
Let them see you hold a boundary with calm authority. Let them hear you speak truth with humility. Let them watch you serve when no one’s looking—and fight for what’s right when it’s costly.
Teach them that it takes more courage to forgive than to get revenge. That it’s more Christlike to weep with someone than to win an argument.
We’re raising future warriors, yes. But we’re also raising shepherds, servants, and leaders who reflect the strength and softness of Jesus.
Question of the Day:
Are you showing your children how to balance boldness with humility—and strength with gentleness?
Mini Call to Action:
This week, share one story with your child where Jesus showed both strength and gentleness. Then ask them how they think they can do the same.
Prayer:
Father, make me the kind of man who leads with power—but never without compassion. Help me model Christlike strength, anchored in humility, and teach my children to do the same. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Let’s Get to Work.
Raising strong kids doesn’t mean raising hard kids. Teach them to lead with both fire and grace—and the world won’t know what hit it.
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