You Have What It Takes

In You Have What It Takes, John Eldredge speaks directly to fathers, unveiling the profound impact they have on their children's lives. Through heartfelt insights and real-life anecdotes, Eldredge encourages dads to embrace their God-given role, affirming their sons' strength and their daughters' beauty. This concise yet powerful book serves as a guide for fathers to nurture their children's hearts, helping them become who God designed them to be.

For more on this theme, listen to the Wild at Heart podcast hosted by John Eldredge.

Why this book matters

In today's fast-paced world, fathers often struggle to find their place in their children's lives. Many feel ill-equipped to provide the affirmation and guidance their sons and daughters desperately need.

You Have What It Takes helps fathers:

• Understand the unique desires of their sons and daughters.

• Recognize the critical role they play in their children's emotional and spiritual development.

• Learn practical ways to affirm and bless their children.

• Embrace their identity as the most powerful man in their child's life.

These themes are further explored in John Eldredge's book Wild at Heart and John and Stasi’s book Captivating. Both delve into the masculine and feminine hearts, respectively.

What you’ll discover in You Have What It Takes

• The core questions of every child – Boys ask, "Do I have what it takes?" Girls wonder, "Am I lovely?" Fathers are uniquely positioned to answer these questions.

• The father's voice – How a dad's words and actions shape his child's self-worth and identity.

• Healing past wounds – Addressing and overcoming personal insecurities to become a better father.

• Practical steps – Simple, actionable advice for daily fatherhood challenges.

John Eldredge also delves into these topics in Fathered by God video series, offering a deeper exploration of the masculine journey.

Who should read this book?

This book is for:

• Fathers seeking to connect more deeply with their children.

• Men preparing for fatherhood and wanting to start strong.

• Dads feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about their role.

• Anyone interested in understanding the pivotal role of a father in a child's life.

You Have What It Takes as a group study for churches & small groups

Many churches and men's groups have utilized You Have What It Takes to foster discussions about fatherhood and masculinity. Its concise format makes it ideal for group settings, prompting meaningful conversations and personal growth.

Why use this for a church or group study?

• Encourages honest dialogue about the challenges and joys of fatherhood.

• Provides a biblical framework for understanding a father's role.

• Equips men with practical tools to become intentional fathers.

For those leading a group study, pairing this book with the a video study or can offer a more comprehensive exploration of masculine identity.

The origin of You Have What It Takes

John Eldredge wrote You Have What It Takes after recognizing a common thread in his counseling sessions: fathers doubting their ability to lead and nurture their children effectively. Drawing from his experiences and biblical principles, Eldredge crafted this book to reassure and empower fathers, reminding them that they are equipped for this vital role.

A Gift Book That Speaks to the Heart

You Have What It Takes complements the themes explored in Wild at Heart, reinforcing the idea that understanding one's identity is crucial in fulfilling God-given roles. By addressing the father's role in affirming a child's identity, this book contributes to the broader mission of Wild at Heart: helping individuals discover their true selves in God's love.

To explore these themes further, listen to the Wild at Heart podcast hosted by John Eldredge.