Fathering Strong

Introduction: The Path to Fathering Strong
The first time I held my newborn daughter, her tiny fingers wrapped around mine, with a slight tilt of her head she looked right into my eyes. At that moment, I felt overwhelmed with happiness, wonder, and an immense sense of responsibility. I promised myself I would be the best father I could be - guiding her, protecting her, and helping her grow into a strong, confident woman. Nothing in my life had prepared me for the power of this moment. Like many new fathers, I stood there both excited and uncertain about the journey ahead.
Maybe you're feeling that same mix of joy and uncertainty right now. Or perhaps you've been a dad for years but still question if you're doing enough. Here's what I've learned: Fathering Strong isn't about being perfect – it's about setting clear, measurable goals and growing in faith through intentional action each day.
Think of this book as sitting down with a fellow dad who has walked this path before you. Through over 35 personal stories from my journey of raising four children and becoming a grandfather, along with 85 powerful stories from 20 different fathers, you'll find real-world wisdom that resonates with your own experience. More importantly, you'll discover how to lean on God's wisdom instead of just your own, with over 150 biblical references woven throughout to ground every principle in Scripture. Every story, lesson, and practical goal in these pages comes from real experience – both the victories and the mistakes.
You might be wondering, "What makes a strong father?" Our culture throws all kinds of expectations at dads. We're supposed to be providers, protectors, teachers, bankers, and role models. It can feel overwhelming. But God's word gives us a clearer picture and specific benchmarks to guide us. Just as our Father in heaven guides us with love, wisdom, and patience (James 1:5), He calls us to lead our families the same way.
This book is especially close to my heart because I know many of you grew up without a father figure. That absence can leave deep wounds and big questions about how to be the dad you never had. But here's the good news: through your relationship with God, you have access to the perfect Father. As it says in 2 Corinthians 6:18, "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." By understanding His love and following His example, you can break negative cycles and create a new legacy of Fathering Strong for your family.
Here is what we'll achieve together:
 Setting specific spiritual and parenting goals that align with Scripture
 Learning measurable ways to demonstrate love and leadership daily
 Creating attainable action steps for building your faith while building your family
 Establishing relevant priorities that match God's plan for fathers
 Following time-bound strategies to put on God's armor for life's challenges
Each chapter combines three essential elements for Fathering Strong:
1. Real stories from my journey and other dads
2. Biblical wisdom that guides our goal-setting
3. SMART goals and action steps you can implement today
This isn't just about learning – it's about doing. James 1:22 reminds us to ".. not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." That's why you'll find clear, measurable action steps and prayer points throughout the book. These help you turn good intentions into daily habits that strengthen your fatherhood journey.
For years, I thought being a "strong" father meant having all the answers and never showing weakness. But God showed me something different. Fathering Strong comes from being real with our kids, admitting when we're wrong, and showing them how to depend on God's grace. When I started opening up about my struggles and pointing my children toward God's wisdom instead of just my own, our relationships grew stronger.
Remember this: God didn't call you to be a perfect father. He called you to be a faithful one who consistently works toward growth. Whether you're holding your first newborn or watching your children raise their own kids, it's never too late to start Fathering Strong through measurable goals and faithful action.
Ready to begin? Let's start this journey together, armed with God's Word and equipped with practical steps to strengthen your fatherhood journey.