5 Things I Want My Kids to Know

I wasn’t raised in a Christian home. I was raised in a moral home—where you said “yes sir” and “no ma’am,” worked hard, and tried to be a good person. But faith? That wasn’t really a thing. I knew about God, but I didn’t know Him.

But my kids? They are the first in my family to be raised by a Christian father.

Now, let’s get this straight: I am far from perfect. I still forget to take the trash out until the last possible minute. I’ve burned more meals than I care to admit. And I’ve lost more arguments to a toddler than seems reasonable.

But one thing I do know is that my role as their dad isn’t just to raise decent human beings. It’s to show them Jesus. And if I could sit them down (without them interrupting me to ask for snacks), these are the five things I’d want them to know.

1. God Loves You More Than I Ever Could

And I love you a lot. Like, “watching the same episode of Bluey 47 times” level of love.

But as much as I love you, God loves you infinitely more.

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” — 1 John 3:1

No matter how much you mess up, no matter how far you go, no matter what the world tells you—you are loved beyond measure by a God who created you on purpose, for a purpose.

So when life gets hard (and it will), don’t look to me to be your savior. I’ll be there, but I’ll also mess up. Look to Jesus—He never will.

2. Your Identity Comes from God, Not the World

The world is going to try to define you. It’ll tell you that your worth is in your looks, your success, or how many likes you get on some ridiculous social media app (which, if I’m being honest, I probably won’t understand by the time you’re old enough to use it).

But hear me loud and clear: Your worth is not up for debate.

God already settled that.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10

You don’t have to prove yourself to anyone. You are chosen, you are enough, and you are deeply loved—just as you are.

3. Mistakes Happen—But God’s Grace is Bigger

You will mess up. A lot.

So will I. In fact, by the time you read this, I will have probably lost my temper over something dumb like stepping on a LEGO barefoot.

But here’s what I need you to know: Grace is bigger than your mistakes.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9

When you make mistakes, don’t hide. Don’t run. Bring it to God. His grace is not an excuse to do whatever you want—it’s an invitation to start fresh.

And as your dad, I want you to know that nothing you do could ever make me stop loving you. Ever.

(Unless you root for my rival football team. Then we may need to have a talk.)

4. Strength Isn’t About How Tough You Are

I used to think being strong meant holding everything together, never crying, and never asking for help.

I was so wrong.

Real strength is being humble enough to admit when you need help. It’s choosing kindness when anger would be easier. It’s standing up for what’s right when no one else will.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” — Deuteronomy 31:6

Don’t ever believe the lie that being strong means doing it alone. Lean on God. Lean on the people who love you. That’s real strength.

5. Prayer is Your Greatest Weapon

I wish I could promise you an easy life. But I can’t.

You’re going to face heartbreak, disappointments, and seasons where you wonder if God even hears you.

That’s why I need you to know this: Prayer is not a last resort—it’s your first line of defense.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6

When you’re scared? Pray.
When you’re excited? Pray.
When you have no idea what to do next? Pray.

I may not always be there to fix things, but God always will be.

Final Thoughts from Your Imperfect, but Trying Dad

At the end of the day, I want you to know that being your dad is the greatest privilege of my life.

I don’t have all the answers. I’ll mess up. I’ll embarrass you in public. I’ll probably make dad jokes that make you roll your eyes so hard they hurt.

But my promise to you is this: I will always point you to Jesus.

Because if you know Him, if you trust Him, if you build your life on Him—then no matter what comes your way, you’ll be okay.

And also, please… for the love of all that is holy, pick up your socks.

Love,
Dad