The Voice That Shapes Generations

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God.”
(Joshua 24:1)

Have you ever caught yourself repeating the same phrases your dad used to say, lines like “Don’t make me turn this car around,” or “You’ll understand when you’re older,” and maybe even that classic, “Because I said so”? There’s something almost humorous and deeply familiar about those sayings, yet behind them is a powerful truth many fathers miss: how much influence they actually carry. A father’s presence, words, engagement, and the way he lives shape the atmosphere of a home far more than he realizes. Whether he feels effective or not, his voice is forming something in the lives of those around him.

When I think about this, I am drawn to the book of Joshua. Near the end of his life, Joshua gathers his family and the people of Israel and calls them to a defining moment, saying, “Choose this day whom you will serve . . . but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua understood that leadership in the home carries spiritual weight, and he didn’t leave that direction to chance.

He reminded the people of their story—how God had delivered, provided, and remained faithful even when it was not always obvious. Every family has a story filled with struggle, breakthrough, and God’s quiet faithfulness woven through it all. And when fathers intentionally share that story, it becomes a bridge connecting God’s past faithfulness to their children’s future trust.

But Joshua did more than tell the story; he called for a response. That is where true leadership comes in. Fathers are not just observers—they are called to bring clarity, to say, “This is the direction we are going,” and to model it with their lives.

Even if you did not grow up with that example, you can become a cycle breaker, learning to pray with your children, speak life over them, and lead them in God’s Word in simple but consistent ways. Our culture shows us the consequences of absent or passive fathers, but God’s design reveals something far greater: a present, engaged father can shape not just a home, but generations. Never underestimate the power of your presence or the weight of your voice.

Bold Step Challenge:
This week, take one intentional step to lead spiritually in your home by sharing part of your story, praying with your family, or speaking a clear word of direction that points them toward God. Do it with consistency and conviction.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the influence You have entrusted to us within our families. Help me to recognize the weight of my words and the power of my presence. Give me the courage to lead with clarity, to share the story of Your faithfulness, and to guide my household toward You. Strengthen me to be intentional, consistent, and rooted in Your truth so my life reflects Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Listen to the sermon: The Power of Influence

Part 1Part 2

Ministry Update from Mark

Yesterday was Father’s Day (June 21, 2026), a day set aside to recognize the contributions fathers and father figures make in the lives of their children. It’s been 25 years since my dad, Robert Jobe, passed away. His decision as a rebellious 18-year-old to surrender his life to Christ at a Youth for Christ Rally in Gary, Indiana, made an eternal impact on my life.

Growing up, he taught me two principles I still strive to live by each day and pass on to my own children: love God and love people with simplicity and sincerity.

If by chance you let yesterday come and go without thanking your own dad or the man who influenced you most growing up, please call or text him with two simple words: “thank you.”