Question: What do you do to train yourself for unexpected battles as a Dad? 

You can’t win a fight you don’t know you’re in! 

If you have children, you have probably run across the book “What to expect when you’re expecting.” There is a lot of planning and preparation leading up to the birth of your child. The preparation is the easy part, though. Once they’re born, you are on call 24/7. 

Each phase of your child’s development will come with its own challenges. Small children, small problems. Large children, large problems. 

1. Ephesians 6: 10-18  
2. Belt of Truth 
3. Breastplate of righteousness 
4. Shoes / Gospel of peace 
5. Shield of Faith 
6. Helmet of Salvation 
7. Sword of the Spirit 

Dads: Let’s define your battleground 

1. Role model – They will mimic what they see and hear. 
2. Communication – You will find that communication needs to change as often as your child changes. Learn how to listen and speak effectively.  
3. Encouragement – There will be times when you need to encourage your child as they go through a rough patch, school, peers, dating, etc. 
4. Providing – Don’t just throw money at them. Invest time as well. 
5. Love – Love them unconditionally. Also, provide tough love when needed. 
6. Protection – Your children need to know they can trust you. 
7. Consistency – While you may grow as a person, being consistent in your walk with Christ, your communication style, temperament, etc., will benefit you and your child’s relationship. 

Dads: Let’s get you equipped 

1. Prayer – Let’s start off with our best weapon: communication with God about our situation.  
2. God’s Word – Read God’s word daily to understand God and identify the enemy. 
3. Platoon – Surround yourself with Godly people who will pray, serve and fight alongside you when needed. 
4. Battleplan – Know that you’re going to be in a battle—plan on how you will fight. 

Truth & Grace 

There will be a fight, and the enemy won’t fight fair. He’s going to target your children…what are you going to do about it?  

Ephesians 6:11 – “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” 

Challenge 

I challenge both you and me to spend time in God’s Word and pray for preparation for upcoming battles.