Sometimes you want to run away to a land far, far away! But unless you’re Peter Pan, flying off to Neverland isn’t the answer. The truth is, your presence is more powerful than you realize.
Parents, mentors, husbands, wives—every one of us struggles with feelings of inadequacy. Dads often question if they’re doing enough. Moms sometimes wonder if they’re making a difference. Teens feel the weight of not measuring up. But here’s the truth: your presence matters more than your perfection.
God’s Design for Family Presence
God wove fatherhood, motherhood, and family into the very fabric of humanity. A father’s consistency and faithfulness teaches children about the steadfastness of their Heavenly Father. A mother’s love and presence mirrors God’s nurturing heart. And when teens see faith lived out day by day, they learn that following Jesus isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up.
A Story of Silent Love
Max Lucado once shared this story:
“There is a time to speak. But there is also a time to be quiet. That’s what my father did. Dropping a fly ball may not be a big deal to most people, but if you are thirteen years old and have aspirations of the big leagues, it is a big deal. Not only was it my second error of the game, it allowed the winning run to score. I didn’t even go back to the dugout. I turned around in the middle of left field and climbed over the fence. I was halfway home when my dad found me.
He didn’t say a word. Just pulled over, leaned across the seat, and opened the passenger door. We didn’t speak. We didn’t need to. When we got home, I went straight to my room, and he went straight to the kitchen. Presently he appeared with cookies and milk. He sat on the bed, and we ate together. Somewhere in the dunking of the cookies I realized that life—and my father’s love—would go on.”
Sometimes love isn’t loud. Sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and faithful.
What Teens, Parents, and Families Need Most
I’m learning that simply sitting with my kids one-on-one makes a world of difference. Listening to their thoughts, their struggles, and their take on life helps me connect.
And it’s not just dads—moms, grandparents, and mentors all carry the same calling: to be present. Teens don’t need us to have all the answers or fix every problem. What they need most is our love, our patience, and our faithfulness.
A Call to Be Present
- Parents: Be steady. Your kids are watching how you handle failure and success.
- Teens: Don’t be afraid to sit with your parents, mentors, or friends in silence—those moments shape your future.
- Families: Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up together.
Keep Manly Training Alive
At Manly Training, our mission is to equip men, women, and the next generation to stand strong in faith. A revival is on the horizon, and it begins in our homes—through everyday presence and faithfulness.
🙏 Will you partner with us? Your donation helps us continue providing resources that bless families, strengthen parents, and inspire teens. Together, we’re shaping the future—one family at a time.
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