Struggling to be the spiritual leader my family needs

2d ago·1 min read

I grew up in the church but drifted away in my twenties doing my own thing. Got married, had kids, and now I feel this weight that I need to be leading my family spiritually and I honestly don't know how. My wife is stronger in her faith than I am and I'm kind of embarrassed about that. I want to pray with my kids and teach them about God but I feel like a hypocrite when I haven't been living it myself. How do I come back from this and actually be the dad my kids need?

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Comments(5)

SSean M.New Dad3h ago

Your kids don't need a perfect spiritual leader, they need an honest one. The fact that you're thinking about this and trying shows your kids what integrity actually looks like. That matters way more than having it all figured out.

PPete S.Regular2d ago

Man, I think a lot of us have that same weight on our shoulders. The fact that you're feeling it and want to do better for your kids says everything about who you are right now though. You don't have to have it all figured out to lead them.

WWesNew Dad2d ago

Same boat here with the twins - I definitely don't have all the answers and I'm learning as I go. But I think kids respect authenticity more than perfection, you know?

AAlex R.New Dad1d ago

That's a really honest post. I grew up the same way and came back to faith after my first kid was born. It wasn't about suddenly being perfect, it was about wanting my kids to have what I remembered about faith. Maybe starting small with just praying at dinner?

SSteveRegular1d ago

Coming back to faith after drifting is actually really powerful for kids to witness. Shows them it's never too late and that faith is a real journey, not just something you inherit. How are you thinking about starting this with them?