Back to School Isn’t Just for the Kids

Believe it or not, the new school year is almost here. Where did the summer go?

Over the last two Fist Bumps, we focused on staying strong, being men of courage, standing together, and finishing well. Those are valuable reminders for our young athletes as they begin a new sports season.

But as the school year begins, what about YOU?

Yes, YOU.

Take a moment, big guy, and look in the mirror. What needs to change this year? What should you do differently?

A new school year is the perfect time to ask those questions.

As we thought about this, a verse from Ephesians stood out:

“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”Ephesians 6:4

When our kids head back to school, dads need to step forward.

Our kids and grandkids are growing up in a world filled with temptations and influences many of us never imagined. Social media, friends, teachers, coaches, and constant peer pressure are all shaping them.

That leaves us with an important question:

How will WE shape them?

Are we watching from the sidelines, or are we fully in the game?

What kind of influence do we want to be? Consider these three:

1. BE PRESENT

Two simple words hang in our office:

BE THERE.

They remind us to show up, stay engaged, and make sure our kids and families know we care.

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.”Ephesians 5:15–16

Put down the phone. Set work aside. Truly listen.

Be there for your kids. Know their friends. Talk with them. Ask questions. Some of the best conversations happen in ordinary moments—on the ride to school, around the kitchen table, sitting in the stands, or at bedtime.

Stay connected. Stay present.

Life moves fast, gents. Don’t miss these moments. They will be gone before you know it.

2. PRAY FOR THEM

Each day, get on your knees and thank God for the blessing of your kids. Pray for their protection, their friendships, their decisions, their teachers, their faith, and the people who will influence them.

Your prayers can go places you cannot.

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”James 5:16

And don’t only pray for your kids—pray with them.

Years from now, they may not remember every piece of advice you gave them. But they will remember hearing their dad pray over them and with them.

Let them hear you bring their lives before God.

3. MODEL IT FOR THEM

They are watching more closely than we realize.

The question is: Are we giving them an example worth following?

Do they see us love and respect our spouses?

Do they notice how we treat other people?

Do they see how we respond when things don’t go our way?

Do they watch how we handle anger, disappointment, success, money, pressure, and failure?

Yes, they do.

Men, our kids need to see us live what we say. They can spot empty words pretty quickly.

Few things will shape them more than watching their dad follow Jesus with consistency—not perfectly, but authentically.

So, what will you do?

Will you keep doing the same old things, or will you make this school year

different?

Will you be more present?

Will you pray more intentionally?

Will you model the life you hope your kids will someday live?

Will you step up and become the dad God created you to be?

Being a dad may be one of the greatest assignments God ever gives us.

Are you ready to step into that challenge?

We are praying you will.

Have a great week.