Fallen Heroes: A Devotional for Dads Who Struggle With Pornಮಾದರಿ

I have a brother who served two tours in Afghanistan as a Marine. When he returned, he would tell us war stories. His eyes would get a far-off look as he recounted the battles he fought, the losses his company suffered, heroic deeds and the victory they won. 

Psalm 68:11-14 shows God’s people back home telling war stories while they relish in the spoils of victory.

Imagine saying this: 

“Kids, let me tell you something. Your dad isn’t perfect. I’ve got to be honest, I’ve struggled with looking at stuff I shouldn’t. There were years where I kept this a secret and didn’t tell anyone. I want to tell you this so you can avoid the mistakes I’ve made. I want you to know you can tell me if you’re struggling too.” 

Now, this requires great discretion and care. You want to focus on the victories. You don’t want to include unnecessary details. But they need to know that you’ve fought. You can tell them it’s hard. You can admit you weren’t always victories. 

The “spoils of victory” are the blessings we experience from God’s salvation. In Psalm 68, we see the wives back home enjoying all treasures that were won in the battle. In the same way, when husbands and fathers recount the victory that God has secured for them, their families will be blessed. 

But there’s some more here. Your war stories shouldn’t end with you—how you succeeded or failed on your own. Psalm 68 makes it clear that our war stories should always point back to God. We do this by connecting our own stories to the story in God’s Word. 

Verse 11 says, “The Lord gives the word.” The Word of God is the ultimate blessing. Particularly, when you battle with sin—like porn—and apply the promises of God’s Word. My own dad did this for me with Romans 6. We memorized this passage as a family when I was very young, and for years afterward, I would recite these verses when I was tempted with lust. 

Reflection:

1. Tell your “war stories” with sin to your kids. They need to learn about the fight, and there’s no better way to learn than from their dad. 

2. What’s a passage of Scripture that relates to your story? Share this with your family and memorize it with them.