Titus 2:6-8 NKJV

[6] Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, [7] in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, [8] sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.

Growing up, I wasn't given the greatest example of godly manhood. My dad was a good man. He had many honorable characteristics. He was a dependable, hardworking provider for our family, but he never took us to church. He sent us to church with mom. I used to get mad with him for it. Despite his many flaws, I still wanted to be just like him.

As a father, my highest call is raising a godly man. Lacking a good example for myself does not give me a free pass to not be one for my son. I dropped the ball big time early on, so I am hyper-vigilant with the example I now set.

Beyond my home, I am also a coach and a mentor for other young men. I am blessed with many opportunities to share Jesus. I get to show others what it looks like for a grown man to be mindful of God in an ungodly world. I am nowhere near perfect. I still have a lot to work on, but I am thankful for His grace and mercy, which allows me to be a good example and not a poor excuse.