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Day 17
ENGLISH
And Jesus answered them, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.—John 12:23-26
I think it is safe to say that death ranks high on a list of man's fears. But often, it's not our death that we fear, but the loss of someone important to us—a parent, friend, or perhaps the most unthinkable, death of a child. Death is emotionally painful and physically irreversible.
In today's text, Jesus is telling his closest men, a little cryptically, I might add, that he is going to die. I am sure they receive this as bad news. The brothers who had left everything to follow him and who had come to know and love him as their mentor were now faced with this horrific prediction—imminent death. As was his tendency, he offers them a metaphor that helps them see and have confidence in the bigger picture. He wants them to see the good news in death and the potential for life. He describes how the death of a seed, and its fall to the earth, is necessary to bring new life and much fruit. While this comparison was accurate, it's hard to imagine that it brought much comfort to his men in that present moment.
What I love about this text is the realization that we need brothers to lean on when the future looks bleak. We need godly men to lean on when times are tough. Men who are anchored in the truth. Men who seek and speak the will of God in those moments, all hope appears to be lost. Jesus was that man for these men. And while we prefer to lean on human ingenuity and do life alone, this not the best choice.
You know there are times you have done life alone, and it does not work well. Maybe today, you need to reach out to some man who feels alone? A young man or older man who is navigating the challenges of life without a godly voice of hope from other men. Tap them on the shoulder, or better yet, invite them to join the challenge with you! Be a seed of hope to another man today, as he may be waiting for a man like you.
DO THIS: This week, we are focusing on the discipline of brotherhood.
Your Call To Act (C.T.A.) today is:
- Pray: for 3-5 minutes, for a man you know who needs a Christian brother in his life.
- Share: below how other Christian men have been beneficial to you.
- Invite: the man you have prayed for, a beverage or a meal. Listen to him and love him.
SPANISH
AFRIKAANS
DUTCH
CHINESE
⚡Share That You Completed Today's Challenge 
My guys are part of my guardrail system. They check me, they correct me, they keep me on the straight path
Other guys have always given me an example to seek after and follow
By giving amazing support during the good and bad times.
Very grateful for much encouragement from Christian men!
Prayed for me.
I have been blessed to have had a string of men in my life over the past 40 years, since I began to take my faith seriously. I thank them all from the depth of my heart, soul, and spirit. I am also grateful for the men I currently have in my life and the ones I will have in the future. Somehow the Lord just knows EXACTLY who we need during the different seasons of life. Lord, make me available to those men whose lives I can be there for them in their life seasons.
Provided a listening ear, guidance, and support
My brothers and mentors at Thrivent have shown me ministry in work.
When I felt despair like God was now where near. He brought a brother along just to talk and share
Men willing to be a shoulder to lean on and except me unconditionally even through my failures
Jesus followers, like the men in fight club, have been like Barnabas to Saul, brothers of encouragement. They have spurned me on to WANT TO BE and actually BECOME a better disciple of Jesus.
The men’s group at church
The men’s group that me and my middle son belong to have been such a source of encouragement. I love them all.
I am thankful for the men’s Bible study I am a part of early Monday morning each week. Also, the men’s prayer time I experience each Monday too. I also participate in a men’s “open share” group each Thursday night and I have benefitted from male accountability partners.
I am blessed to see men change their families.
My Christian brothers have helped me open up about my past, not be afraid of what I have done. They have lead me to a faith that is powerful and motivating.
I think I speak for everyone when I say this pandemic has probably been the lonliest we’ve felt in a long time, probably ever. The only thing that kept me going was my church family and my brother’s in the faith encouraging each other and keeping each other accountable.
Christian Brothers have made me feel, not alone. Knowing that I am not the only one that struggles helps me to see how I need to lean more on Christ.
They make you feel like you are never a lone in any battle that life throws at you! You may stumble but they grab you before you hit the ground!
Voice of reason and a sounding board for struggles in my Christian walk. Knowing that I am not alone or the only one going through the same struggles.
I’ll be talking with my best friend Dale tonight – our weekly check-in.
Other Christian men have helped strengthen my faith.
Lifted me up
Christian men have been instrumental in my development and walk with Christ. I’m a mentee and a mentor and I learn from both. Thank you father
I have had a hard time opening up to other men and sharing my feelings or needs. I long for that brotherly relationship, but it has been difficult to develop.
Rich Mohr, Cory Casterton
Other men have shown me how to live like a christian, or walked with me in places where they had gone before in their lives
Brothers have held and affirmed me when I could not see my worth
I have a weekly Christian accountability partner to discuss our weekly devotion and also other issues we may have ask for prayer for.
They teach me every day to step out of my comfort zone. Community is key to my accountability and if I’m gonna “talk the talk,” I better pick up my cross and “walk the walk!”
Iron sharpens iron!!
My “God Friends” my brothers in spirit explain scripture to my immature faith and counsel me.
Other Christian men in my life have encouraged me in difficult times, prayed with me, been loving examples of Christ, helped me to stay focused on Jesus and to be satisfied in him.
Having men strong in their faith coupled with being BIG BOOK advocates help by keeping me centred in Christ and in my recovery
Having Godly men in my life has kept my eyes focused on the kind of man I want to be and God wants me to be and gives me a physical role model to follow.
Joey I love you Son and pray you will know Jesus Christ as you Savior.
Developing and being a part of Mens prayer and Mens groups has been so important to my walk. It has transformed the way I do life as a man.
Brotherhood. The ultimate 4-1-1.
Praying for SN…..I have invited him to a revival service tonight. I believe he needs God in his life. Thankful for all the men in my life who have shaped me, held me accountable, guided me, taught me, etc…….Tommy, Gene, Nathan, Joe, Bobby, Jim, Todd……just to name a few .
Danny, wherever you are today, may the Lord richly bless you and keep you in His love and Grace. Thank you for your sacrifice in mentoring me for two years over forty years ago when I was a baby in Christ. Thank you for taking the “bull by the horns” in showing me the love of Christ and being the greatest example of all. And today, Jim thank you for being an awesome brother in always being there while we navigate through life. Bless you both!
Just to see that we are all so alike in the fact that it doesn’t matter where we are at in life or our christian walk, there will become a point that you realize its time to “Get Real”, “All-In”! If we make up our mind to dig into the Word and Gods heart, he is no respecter of persons and we can emerge from deep dark moments or sin just as our brother in Christ did!
Encouragement!
Christian men have brought me clarity in who I am in Christ. I love that I have other Godly men (brothers) to share my walk in Christ with.
I have a friend Mark at work his words of encouragement hope and guidance in God’s word have helped me so many times. Brothers in Christ is something we should never live without.
Thank you God for the men you have put in my life to mentor and guide me. Help me to do the same for my brothers.
I’m praying the lord by his spirit as I pray, will supernaturally bring this meeting to be, so I know beyond a shadow of doubt that it’s his will and timing not my own. I will be prepared to act at his prompting.
My Pastor in California was the 1st to start me in my walk of faith. But was the loss of a job and multiple other things that eventually broke me and brought me to my knees. That was the hand of God that saved me.
Men of God have given me more time tested advice for looking more like Jesus while being keen listeners to when I’m in a pinch
Pastor Jack was the first person to take the time to tell what being a Christ follower looks like. That was 20 years ago. More recently I’ve been blessed with another incredible friend/mentor.
Iron sharpens iron! We need some brothers we can depend on for wise counsel, and when we mess up and stray. Having Prayer Warriors surround and laying on hands to lift a brother is what we all need. And need to be doing for our brothers!
Men around me challenge me to know Christ, strengthen and encourage me in weakness. They also remind me to be humble.
Christian brothers have guided me back to the Lord when I’ve strayed and felt hopeless many times in the past 45 years.
My hope was supported by Rick.
My small group of men have come alongside each other in times of need.
Men of Faith that are standing on the Word and living it daily are so uplifting to me. I thank you for these cherished relationships and pray for continued strength in my daily walk.
My brother in faith Travis, sent me to a Christian Discipleship program, a rehab of sorts. The men involved in this program, both staff and students, have been the most influential in my path to faith and sobriety!!! Thank you Jesus!
Other Christian men have showed me how to trust in God and to be watchful for his miracles.
There have been Godly men who have been there to help me with my marriage.
I have a friend who I have met through work who has become a good anchored Christian to help me on my path.
The importance of starting each day with God and help to see all He has done for me because of how much He loves me! Also to have faith at all times!
I’m currently involved with four different men’s groups. I know that seems like a lot, but it kinda just happens. When this challenge started, It came to me that it would be nice to start a morning prayer group on-line that would meet at 6 am every morning to get our focus right for the day. Of the many dozens of people I invited, only two showed up. But, since then, the three of us have met every morning at 6:00 am. even when the time changed! I thought that was a miracle. But seriously, I can’t tell you how rewarding it has been to start my morning in prayer with these guys.
I had one Brother in Christ who I loved dearly and we spent a lot of time together. I would even go take care of him when he was ill. He passed a year ago and I haven’t been able to meet another Brother to fill that void. But I try to be a Brother for other men who are struggling.
In a season of marriage separation, Christian brothers have literally been keeping me afloat. Iron sharpens iron is a real thing and no matter our circumstances, a necessity in our lives
Meet in a group every other week. I know these guys have me if ever I need them. We are a band of brothers.
Brother
Led me through the Holy Spirit to Christ. Keep me focus on serving others. Grow my Love for God.
Teach me Gods Word. Share conversations about life and death and eternal life. Someone to lean on in troubled times.
Whenever I have had the opportunity to be around more Christian men, it has always strengthened and made it easier for me to resist sin and be better. I know that God will bring more into my path I just need to open my eyes and heart.
A college friend was there for me on the most important time in my life.
I have a great group if Godly leaders who desire good things for me and are rooting and praying for me
Reconnecting with old friends who we all now share the saving grace of Jesus Christ 🙌🏻
So blessed to be surrounded by Godly Men.
I had no father growing up, but I’m still in awe of the men God put in my life when I needed it the most. Today I’m still humbled to be surrounded by Godly brothers in Christ both older and younger than I, to help keep me on track or accountable
Fridays mens group. Group of men praying together is powerful.
Mens small group meeting at my church. And with 2 other brothers in prayer to start each day with our lord. These meetings help me to grow closer to you.
I am so blessed to be surrounded by the men of our church in which we lean on each other on thoughout the week regularly. In doing so, we tackle the challenges of what it is to be a Christian man in today’s world.
I’m praying for and reaching out to my friend Randy. He helped me realize that God still loves me even after the many years of running away from me God. Randy is struggling with some personal issues and his old lifestyle seems to be resurfacing…
Serve as signposts and inspiration as I’d like to be.
Men need men to be men! I have certainly experienced this as God used men to change the focus in my life for which I am grateful! The beauty of it is, is that they keep multiplying and together we can make a difference in the kingdom. It’s the formula that builds families by God’s design!
I can’t thank the brothers in my life enough for pointing me towards Jesus. I get emotional even as I type their names – Art, Brett, Kevin, Rob, Chris… – these brothers were Gods boots on the ground for me and I am hopeful that I have been used by Him similarly.
Iron Sharpens Iron.
Gwin Greathouse Ernie Martin
Throughput my life, God has always provided men in my life that reach out to me and help me live life. What a blessing they are. My prayer is that I am able to reach out to other men and be a blessing to them.
My friends have been there to encourage me and pray with me when needed. They continue to support me with God’s word every day.
I benefited from other Christian men by just watching the way treated their wives, Their families, Their commitment to God, and to the local assembly, but especially from the sound advice given to me about maintaining your walk with God.
I rely on Christ building me up when I am down , He does this through men in my life . Holy Spirit guides me when I need to refocus.and get back on course through Godly men.
Love from my spiritual brother Bob has meant so much to me over the years.Great encourager and great insight.
Very thankful for the continuous fellowship from my local church and this men’s challenge, that keep me on my toes to always look to Jesus to keep the faith and continue to share it with all men, and those that cross my path in life.
I have been helped by men in my church tremendously. We need that bond among more men across the Brothers more.
For the last 5 years, I have had a group of about 16 men who I have had the privilege of doing life with. I thank God for these men!
Helped create a mindset of looking to the Father and not my circumstances
Other brothers have been encouraging to me in that I see them continuing to walk with the Lord. It keeps me anchored in the faith.
I have been doing life alone. I need brothers to help me. I have never had the confidence to ask for help.
Hi Thom i hope you gather the confidence to ask for help, it will surprise you how the Lord will use someone to help build you. Brother remember we are better together.
My Christian brothers have encouraged me, tested me, and they have been an example of the love of Christ to me.
My dad has helped me through my path of Christ and has helped me through so much
I have been blessed to have served with some christ like chaplains in USAF and severfellow Gideons. Each have led in boldness showing faith in action.
Andrew
I am blessed to have had men in my life who have taught me, encouraged me, and convicted me: College professors, accountability partners, and ministry leaders.
Thanks Meeting wit a guy for last 8-9 years. But during this current event we have been separated or isolated. I need face to face and it feels so divided in what we as brothers need. Thanks Chris for sharing Jesus brings us together, His love and community in The Body with Brothers is necessary however we can establish it. Duane
My Christian brothers have given me a network of trust and hope.
There are a few guys that help me learn more about God and help keep me focused on Him.
My dad has spoken much wisdom,encouragement,and truth into my life.z
Josh and Joel.
Consistency, prayer, searching scripture together.
The band of Brothers at Mitchell Community have encouraged me greatly!
I’ve had many influences in godly men. Some good alot bad. Which pushed my faith away. But seeing god grow my stepdad has been a major influence for me.
Christian brothers are inspiration and a source of true help. A Christian brother helps me grow in my faith and one who can correct me when he sees me do wrong.
Other men pray for me and encourage me, they are fun to hang out with and do stuff. I appreciate prayers and honesty when things are hard. I know that without other Godly men listening to me in my life I would not be as mature a follower of God as I am.
Made my faith stronger and made me want to be more like God?
It’s so encouraging to know that other men go through or have gone through the same struggles as I have, and they are there for me. Together we are stronger!
Having other Godly men in my life has helped course correct when needed, give me a shoulder to lean on when I need help standing. Best of all I get to serve other men as well and help them when help is needed.
I constantly feel called to pour into men in my life as I know so many of my brothers past and present and poured into me when times got tough and this is a time where we all need a good man in our life to lean into each other. John M. / Troy
Leaning on other men throughout my journey has been absolutely essential and amazing! From when I needed other men to grow with as a new believer, to navigating my divorce, to finding a “band of brothers” to do life with, to, along with them, reaching out to other men through Wild at Heart bootcamps, brothers to lean on have been there for me, and me for them. We are not meant to do life alone, but the enemy of our souls sure doesn’t want men to be in fellowship with other men!!
The promise principle men group keeps me being honest and open about my life. My brother keeps me accountable on my Christian walk and dealing with issues idols in my life. They help me to know that I am NOT alone and we are more common than we think so as band of brothers- iron sharpens iron.
Leading good examples of how to live life.
My fellow brother Gary who shows me what a true man of God is by the way conducts his life!
Great for the Men in my life that have provided guidance, accountability and a spiritual direction. Specifically PeterB, my Brother, JeremyP, and my Dad.
To my brothers Steve, Pete and Brian,
Thank you for continuing to be a part of my faith journey. It’s amazing to look back at where we were just a few years ago and to see the growth in each of us now. Let’s continue to pray together and grow as men of God. Love you guys.
I look to so many friends family members That need the Lord’s hand in their life. Explain to him how fortunate it is for person such a myself to have brothers in my life.
Be bold
I had a tennis partner who in time he revealed to me he had done the 12 steps for an addiction. Only God knew that many years later he would walk me through those same 12 steps.
Men have failed me my whole life.
I am still praying and looking.
To engage in this brotherhood, we have to put our peruse to death. It is scary and worth it to let other Christians know us.
Sometimes knowing somebody has passed through similar circumstances can help guide and encourage me along. It’s important to be open about challenges you’ve faced and are facing so other can help or you can help them
The men in my small group at church lift each other up.
I praise our God for many men in my life.
Pastors Sunday school teachers, friends, etc.
too many to name but I know my Lord has had His hand in putting each and everyone in my life at the time I needed them.
Praise my Lord!!! He loves me soooooo much!!!!
He loves you too!!!
I know the leader of the small group I attend is very beneficial in a way that of speaks life into my family from his experiences with his wife and children.
Invested in my life in high school and college to mold me to who I am
YCOG MEN!!! This group of men have been placed in my life one by one for a special purpose. They give me strength and courage. I love those men. Especially my brother from another mother, Mr Rick Brittain.
Strong christian guys keep me accountable and give sound advice when I need it and when I don’t think I need it 🙂 Also I think I might need to pass on the invitation for now, lol, maybe virtually.
Have deep conversations about god and pray together. A Positive, loving, happy and fearless influence.
Obviously, this was recorded pre virus. Anyways, as a toung man 30 years ago Frank Straub was a
great example of a faithful servant. I miss him.
My accountability partners have been crucial in my walk with Jesus. So thankful…..
One need I have is to be around other Christian men that I can trust. I have found that here and know that God had orchestrated it all. When we moved I left one great group whom I still have contact, but led me to another great group. Thank you Jesus for answering my prayer.
Helping me get involved in church activities.
The Men that help keep me aimed towards the Lord, and have guided and encouraged me most…
Ron Sandstrom
Al Blue
Tony Blue
John Wilson
Orville Hieb
Karl Emerson
Kevin Johnson
Sam McGown
Stefan Benende
Clint at a loss of his last name
Vince Miller
Jacob Wattenphul
Cole katchup… Er something!
All inspiring to me in each of their own ways…. My Dad… Starling Dean Keeper…
for raising me up knowing the Lord! I Love and cherish everyone that has inspired me with my journey, even the unlisted… Thank You Lord! For these men you have put in my path!
At a time like this where we are isolated and COVID 19 is ramping all over the world , we need the supports of Christian brothers that keep each other encouraged with the Word of God. Thought For Your Day -The Battle Belongs to the Lord (2 Chron 20:1-25). Have a blessed day.
Support,encouragement.
God has given me the gift of a God fearing step father who loves me.
Variety of Ps that have made an impact in my life
Leon R. has been such a wonderful mentor to me (although I have never specifically asked him to be my mentor). Through his influence, we started/revived a Men’s Ministry at our church which has been meeting regularly (present situation aside) for over 6 years. Also, Kent D. was my first close friend in Christ, and we’ve been friends ever since. I thank God for these guys, and for so many other guys that God has brought into my life. They have grounded me in Christ.
Since I came to NHPBC, Sam Tello has poured into me a great deal. My brother Luisa Garcia has also been a stand for me even before we came to our church. Today I will reach out to my friend Manny, who is a brother in Christ but from a different church.
I have just emailed four men in my life that I have true concern for there direction in life. My prayer is that they will look toward Christ and his teaching for life guidance.
I used to meet with a friend for accountability and prayer. We had experienced some of the same struggles.
I am thankful that our Lord has placed many men of God along my path, at various points in my life, and that He continues to do so today. His faithfulness is awesome!!! I’m also grateful for a group of brothers in Christ that gave me my first Holy Bible, with my name engraved on it, soon after being saved.
My Christian brothers let me lean on their hope when I didn’t have any of my own, and they helped me see the value of my story in God’s plan.
When I think about growing up in church I think of three men who had a great impact on me. Al was my Sunday school teacher and RA leader for many years. He taught me that people (even the best) will ultimately let you down, but God never will. Bill was the second and my dad was the third and still is the best example and connection I’ve had with a godly man. He continues to support me to this day and I know he always will.
I wish I could tap those on the shoulder, but I have to be at least 6 feet away.
I’m in a regular discipleship group with 3 other men. I’m learning to trust them more and more each time we meet. Looking back, God has put amazing men in my life to guide and instruct me through this Christian walk. It has been the backbone of my growth in the lord. I wouldn’t have come this far without them. A wise man once told me there’s no such thing as a lone ranger Christian. Thank God for his provision!
I have leaned on Kevin before. It seemed like he dropped everything to take some talk time with me. I am for ever grateful for that!
I pray for G.
I lean to the men’s group, every week.
They have brought me closer to Christ and realized we all as men makes mistakes. But he still loves us and will forgive us
Over the years, the various people in my men’s small group have changed a bit, but I’ve been blessed to have the guys in my life. I’ve been challenged to invest more in my personal relationship with Christ and in my family. I’ve grown closer to Jesus as a result of spiritual conversations with these guys. And I’ve had a lot of fun too. I’m blessed to have found this in a group of Christian men willing to live life with me.
Open my eyes and ears to your word
I work with incarcerated youth. We have different church groups come in and share the word of God with them. I have sat over seeing the youth and listen the days topic. In every case I learn something. As Paster Espinosa was leaving he came over and we talked a bit . I expressed that I was not sure what my calling was. He with out hesitation said this it. I see how you talk and work with the youth. I was doing what I was called to do and Paster just simply put into perspective. I expressed my thanks to him to him God bless you and he left.
Prayed for BK, PN, IN and JS. I’m going to text them and check in!
My first Christian mentor led me to believe in Christ in high school. And every mentor since has helped me grow in my faith by challenging me to be a better brother, father, husband, and man after God’s own heart.
My brothers at YCOG have always been there for me, they have been a great influence as well as a support. I look forward to what we can do together.
Special shout to Rafael, you are my brother and my best friend.
John, let’s be Christian brothers and provide each other with support. Let us be available for other men in need of the Lord
I am grateful for Tom for whom I share all. My weekly men’s bible study. An ear to listen, console, advise and encourage. Iron to sharpen (accountability, growth, challenge).
Supportive encouragement – accountability
Other Christian men have helped me to focus and look at things differently.
I would be in a world of hurt without Christian brothers. They have helped me be a better husband and a better father. They have supported me through sin struggles and encouraged me to keep going when I wanted to quit.
If it weren’t for these Christian men (and others Many others) in my life, I wouldn’t be the man of God I am today:
My dad
Orville Heib
Mark Johnson
Kevin Johnson
Greg Bourgond
Al Fast
Karl Emerson
Jeff Severson
Jason Eidsvoog
(And of course you guys – Chris and Tony)
I am so grateful for all the men God has put in my life
The men in my church are awesome. We are in contact with each other daily. Sometimes they see things going a wrong direction before I do and let me know. One of the cores of our church is ” we fight for men”
A Christian man that was beneficial for me along my spiritual journey is the chaplain at my school. I met with my chaplain multiple times to discuss renewing my faith journey and finding Jesus again. My chaplain took me in and spoke to me through God allowing me to find the light again. He was a positive influence for me and someone to reach out to when I had no other close Christian men in my life. I won’t forget the day I talked to him and declared my life again to Jesus. I pray that he continues to speak to others in the same way that he speaks to me. I also pray for myself, as well as one of my friends as we seek better Christian brothers and influence in our every day lives.
The last man that was a brother in my life passed . I am finding it difficult to find a true Christian Brother to be able to do life with and trust
Mike Murphy, Mike S. and Vic. All have helped my walk with Christ.
Gary you are doing so well, slow and steady wins the race!
Kim and I moved here about 6 years ago and people ask what was the reason you moved. My first response is usually that Kim was moving and I wanted to stay with her. In reality there is no one answer and the reason seems to have not been what we thought. We have both grown greatly in our walk because of the Godly people we have become friends. with. As for myself, I have not had the friendships or been surrounded by Godly men as I am now. Men such as Danny Douglas, and many others have helped encourage, challenge, teach, and correct me in a manner only a brother can do. I am blessed and find that the reasons I am here are not the reasons I believed them to be.
I’m especially thankful for Pastor John. He is one of the most loving men I’ve ever met. He is humble, generous, has integrity, and is authentic; all life principles that I’m striving for.
Other Christian men have been beneficial to me to discuss biblical issues and Christian living, and ask about and talk through deep subjects related to faith.
Thank you Lord for the godly men you have brought into my life throughout the years.
I am going to assume that this is the group from Clarks Summit University. I wanted to share with you all an idea that is percolating in my brain. I have 5 men (including me) living in my house right now. That’s just about the right amount for a men’s Bible study – have not really thought about what that would look like yet. Thoughts? Thanks
It is Bob.
Sounds like a great idea with the men in your house. I’ll give it some thought for study ideas
Thanks
I have many Christian friends that help me when needed.
Without asking, other Christian men call just to see how I am.. usually perfect timing as I am facing a crisis of faith and need some iron to sharpen me up..
Prying and reaching out for my nephew,
I thank God for the men God placed in my life. Brothers to lean on . Iron sharpens iron. I thank God for the brothers he placed in my life to mentor. As I lean on my brothers my brothers can lean on me. I thank God for such a brotherhood and blessing.
Men of God that surround me have taught me how to trust God in all times. Especially those mentors who showed me how to be a worshipper.
My Grandfather Marion was one of the most Christian men I have ever known and was the most influential in my life. Even though I have fallen many times and drifted away many times. The love he showed me as a child always comes back to help guide me back to my heavenly father.
Thank you, Grandad
I am grateful to the other Christian men who have helped me to truly focus on following Jesus and start walking on a path of transformation.
Larry Ashe was an older man in the little church where I got saved. Early on, Larry invited me to a discipleship class he and his wife lead. We read scripture, discussed it and prayed aloud. It developed the disciplines I needed for a spiritual life and made all the difference for me and my wife’s. Larry passed away 2 years ago but his wife is still speaking into our lives.
In the second church we attended, another guy my age came alongside me and encouraged me to take up the mantel of leadership. Although there are almost 1,000 miles between us now, we still keep in touch and Jamie still encourages me although he is struggling with a debilitating disease. I thank God for placing these men in my life and hope to encourage and impact others as they have impacted me.
Doni
Hey that’s really powerful Christian mentors and without them I will be a ship without a rudder.
God has blessed me with amazing mentors throughout my life: solid, Christian men to help guide me in my faith journey. Pastors, Sunday School teachers, youth group leaders, grandfathers. It was one of the reasons why I was so sure that I felt called to serve a church as a second pastor, a church with an experienced lead pastor to be a mentor, especially during my first pastorate!
Just being there when I am hurting and heaving someone to talk to. Reminding of the hope I have in Jesus and what that means for me. Reminding me who I am I Christ. Helping me in so many practical ways
There are several members in my family who need a good Christian brother to be there for them
I thank God for my father and grandfathers who were a great example for me. I also thank God for many men in my church who have been an inspiration through either their words and or example.
Tough to get a beverage right now due to COVID19 but I am grateful for those who embraced the God Buddies concept and live in community with other godly men.
I would be lost lonely and died had it not been for the Godly men that poured their lives into mine. Lord bless each of them.
I’m thankful for several Godly men in my life.
I have always been a Believer….great family, churches, friends…but for 10 years I did not attend church or service…not because I was losing faith…mostly lazy, not connecting with the right folk. Then 2 years ago I met EBBC….and I felt “home”. And in a large part, I found some great guys…real good guys…guys I can honestly reach out to. Thank you guys…and thank you Lord!
Jesus hear our prays to share your story with those men we love and those who we have difficulty understanding and communicating to know and claim you as Savior. Lord you know my list, help us to know the right opportunities and it be you who speaks to them, use me Lord, today.
Mark and I have been meeting once a week for Bible study and just to share life together for over 5 years. We have grown both spiritually and as brothers, and have encouraged and exhorted each other. Last week we started to meet by video platform, because the time together has become too precious to us both to miss during this time of social distancing.
What a gut check on what Jesus is really asking for to follow him, and I am hesitant even when he did it before me and gives me the promise to bear much fruit
I haven’t gotten close to any good faithful men of God but I just keep my eyes focus on God.
I’ve had brothers encourage me in different ways over the years. Some have been teaching/mentoring. Others have offered encouragement and support.
We are called to be a living sacrifice. A life of servant hood that Jesus said would be honored by the Father in heaven. Our lives are gift to us. We just have to give away to others in a loving and redeeming way as we have been redeemed through Christ Jesus death on the cross.
Totally agree with Vince. You are what you eat! The saying goes for both Earthly food and Spiritual food. Those who we surround ourselves with influence us.
My best friend Brian has serves as a reminder to me of what the Holy Spirit can do through forgiveness.
Life has improved as I am able to lean on other followers of other Christans who have faith. Fear has been minimal and for this I am greatful to let him lead me.
The Men’s Group at River Glen Church is a thriving example of what Jesus was asking of his first disciples. We get our energy and support from our GOD Buddies.
The men in my life have been good when I had doubt in my life with my journey with Christ.
A elderly man at my church that recently passed away
Kyle
Other Christian men have shared with me how putting their faith in Jesus has changed them spiritually, relationally and made them better leaders. I’ve seen them stay calm within the storm while radiating the fruits of the spirit as they endured. I’ve seen this “It” factor in action and hope one day to be that model for another brother.
The Christian Men in my life have kept me on path and trusting in Gods power and love!
Men at church have walked with me and carried me through so much of life during the past few years – our walking together and sharing a common belief in the risen Christ has not only sustained me, but has grown me and my faith.
The seasons in my life where the most growth has happened were always when I had other strong Christian Men to walk beside and lift me up. The impact they had on me will forever be remembered. God created us for community. The value of Christian brotherhood is immeasurable. Even when the world says that as men we should suck it up an not share what’s going on in our lives.
Grateful for you guys and what God has done thru JM to help us lean on and sharpen one another.
Reachout to Adam Shively and also I prayed about how Christians in the early days were accepting of everyone.
It wasn’t until recently that I started to actively seek out other men of God in my life. I always thought that my problems were not worth anybody else’s time. I know now that that was my pride talking. In the last 6 months God has put numerous men in my life that have come around me in hard times and been such an encouragement. But this required me to be vulnerable with other guys, something I was afraid to do most of my life. Praise God that I stoped listening to my fear and started opening up to my Christian brothers. It was the best decision I ever made.
Christian fellowship has been essential for anything even close to victorious living because 1 Corinthians 15:33
The men that have been beneficial to my spiritual walk: Rod; Tim; Dan; Alan; Ronnie.
I’ve had other Christian men support me through trials and encourage me. Sometimes just being willing to listen to me is the most beneficial.
I need other men to keep me from going off, to keep me accountable, to encourage me, to help me know I’m not a lone ranger, and to speak honestly to me.
That is how I came to know Christ. Right now could be a great moment to reach people. While everyone is quarantined we can use technology to reach out. I pray I be bold to reach out today.
I am grateful for every man in the men’s bible study groups I am a part of. I learn something new from every one of them.
There are a special group of men from my church who i meet with weekly for prayer these brothers mean the world to meet i thankful to God for giving me brothers like these.
I am a follower of the phrase love a man to Jesus until he’s ready to love a man to Jesus. I don’t have to save all but can make s difference in one.
It’s been 7 years since I lost my best friend to cancer. He was one of a kind. When I read this today a name popped into my head immediately. I will reach out to him today.
God put my friend Karl on my heart. It is amazing how easy it was to pray for him. It is so important to ask of God, “who in my life needs to be prayed for?”. The Holy Spirit guides us to that brother. Thanks Vince for your faithfulness. We need the encouragement to be Kingdom productive. God help each of us to realize the power you want to display through us by discipline and obedience. We need to be reminded constantly of Gods desire for our participation in His plan with and through us.
CROSS country coaches both sparked my faith in different ways. One directly as youth group leader and another with simple words of wisdom. Gonna read me some Proverbs today!
I am thankful for the Christian men who had a influence on my life when I was lost and headed down a dead end street..
Just being around other Christian men helps to keep me focused on God and his word. I have a tendency to get slack when I’m not around other Christians
I have Christian brothers that I have complete confidence in.
I need brothers in my life, so do you.
It is such a gratifying event when our Men’s Group gathers together in one accord. This always energizes me to dig deeper in the Word. And to be the servant Jesus commented on many times through his lessons.
Prayer, rebuke, patient, and love!
Wow! Many men poured so much into me. Early on I remember going out visiting elderly with a leader of the church . On the way back he suggested we stop for coffee at a Whitecastle. Really can’t recall exactly what we talked about . The impression often comes to mind because he spent unstructured time just to talk. Just being with him affirmed my faith . Seems so insignificant yet foundational to me now some thirty years later.
The men in our life group and our Men’s group have been a huge blessing to me. The fellowship and brotherhood we have had over the last several years have helped me grow and provided accountability.
Gary and Andrew.
There’s no doubt in my mind that my life would be just that “my life “, without each and every Christian brother who I have shared vulnerability with. And fyi, my life was mediocre at best before becoming a part of God’s family. Since giving “My life” to Jesus it has become a joy and a privilege. Thanks to each and every Christisn brother! And sister!
One of my closest friends has helped me create a more deep and meaning relationship with God.
Brian, Dan and Pete have been my rock.
I am truly blessed to have a group of God fearing Men to lean on and help me with my journey. Thank you my brothers in Christ.
Praying for my son Peter, a prodigal son, for Christian men/fellowship & renewal in his life as he does not have a relationship with me (or a deep relationship with Jesus Christ, as far as I am aware of….)
Men need men to become men !
“As iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens [and influences] another [through discussion].”
PROVERBS 27:17 AMP
I have no biological brothers but the Lord has surrounded me with a multitude of spiritual brothers in the Lord; they have been my ‘rock’, a multitude of counsel and Godly wisdom; we have joined shields together in unity, like in the movie “Gladiator” to win many battles we have faced together (ie daily prayer partners; weekly Mens Bible studies/ small groups in our church and at our individual homes; we break bread together weekly at various locations; we play all kinds of recreational sports together ….)
Basically, we are doing life together, in the Body, not alone or in isolation; no “lone rangers “ !
Every man needs 3 men in their lives:
1. a Paul – someone to mentor us; a more mature & ‘seasoned’ Christian brother to teach us and lead us, etc…
2. a Barnabas – an accountability partner; another brother in Christ to encourage us, to correct us, and to do life with…
3. a Timothy – someone to we can mentor & guide….
Be/get together in the Body – we need each other !!
Amen David i agree with three men concept continue to be encourage and i will pray that God touch your son’s Peter heart and that he would come to know Him as Lord and Saviour
Sheldon,
Stay connected with & blessed by your ‘band of brothers’
And may God bless you as you have blessed me, in your reply to me, that you will also be lifting up my son Peter in your personal prayers…
Thank you ~ prayer changes things !!
Proverbs 3:5-6
Two men in particular have been a great help to me, Sam and Aaron. Their exposition of God’s Word`and the passion with which I see them living for Jesus encourage me to do likewise. Being around them makes me love God even more and challenges me to serve Him with everything I am.
I was fortunate to have men tap on my shoulder seven years ago to break me out of my isolation that I didn’t even realize I was in so yes I am willing to reach out and disciple other men that are in the same situation. God has certainly given us an opportunity right now to do just that. Jesus’ last words to His disciples were “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations”
I have learned from my wife how to be stronger and more connected.
I have learned from many great men, like Ken. Men like this have taught me through their sin and stuggles how to overcome my own struggles.
My older brother has been my go to person for guidance in my faith walk. His knowledge of God’s word is extensive, so he’s always able to direct me when I have challenges.
There are a few men that we share, challenge pray for each other but in the beginning of my faith walk a pastor friend was instrumental in my journey in Christ who has just recently gone to be with the Lord – thank you Jesus
Praise several men that are Christian mentors for me: Stan, Bob, Marv, and Glen.
New life and much fruit, I feel we can experience that now without dying by just taking in God’s Love and how powerful that is.
My newest brother Todd from church has set Great fellowship within me with the community, church and my Faith in general. He represents being a man of God very well. Been leaning on the church very diligently this past year being new to Florida and God has been Good all the time.
Provided role models for right living.
All my career was in operation management until the last year. I was given a work out of your home assignment. Talk about being lonely, I was. Got a call from a guy asking if I had time to play some golf. The answer was YES. We became best friends for 10 years until he passed from cancer. His last words to me where; ” I am not going to say goodbye, but will see you soon in heaven”. I was so blessed to have this man in my life. Today I have the opportunity to be this type of Christian friend to another man.
A couple months ago my manager Joe approved additional time off for me when my mother in law passed.
It’s simple for me; up until I got cancer, my faith was up and down, and when men were pouring into my life, my faith was strong. When I hid myself from other men, my faith was weak, and led me to hide from Jesus well. Cancer was different, as I had to adjust being alone much of the time, but kept the faith, but even now, my faith is renewed when I talk, pray, and pour into men, and have them pour into me
I have had 3 or 4 1Christian men that have helped to shape me. However one stands
out, (Pastor Jeremy Hyde). There when I needed someone to pray with me and talk with me when
I was sinking in my situation.
I have learned from many good men. I would like to share this with others who have not received Jesus.
My brothers from my church have changed me forever in the most wonderful way possible.
We talk about other man, but sometimes the person who needs talking to is yourself, to look in the mirror and really focus on serving god in the most impactful and honest way possible. ??
I thank God for Tom and Everette and for their love and encouragement to me.
I am currently in an accout ability group with 3 other men whom everything is shared. They help keep me honest and accountable with myself and my faith.
Today I’m praying for and reaching out to my friend Sam, he is a new Christian and is doin his best to serve God and go let go of his old lifestyle and ways of living.
I’m very thankful for Keith and Mike who were my mentors when I started to attend MSG. Because of their leadership, faithfulness, and commitment, I was greatly blessed and grew in my faith. I now have the responsibility and privilege to lead this group.
You my brothers, have been influential to me by texting me and including me in the summit and journeymen. This shows me that God is working thru you to help get me and keep me on the right path to my relationship with God! Thank you, my brothers.
I want to thank God for Andy, Jorge, and Randy. These brothers are my mentors, great examples of how to do life!
One big example is a professor I had in college at BBC (’82), Dave Rockwell. 4o years later, Dave still calls or texts me to simply say, “I prayed for you today.” Wow! These little blessings to me are life-filling. In many ways, he has been my spiritual father — my dad is not a believer.
Bill – Jesse Eaton is the guy I think of.
My mens group every other Thursday allows us to lean on and support on another.
I miss the men of River Glen Men’s group. They are Spirit filled men , annointed with a calling on their lives.
They have been an inspiration, mentors and friends to me.
Thanks for all your help, support and guidance.
Hey Gordon,
Let’s keep you in the Men’s Group Loop with our video meeting technology.
Brooklyn Teen Challenge is the men’s discipleship program that saves my life. I pray for each and every person involved in that program!
You will always be a part of the River Glen men’s group Gordon. You are now just our east coast representative for God Buddies!
Having strong and faithful men to lean on is so powerful. One of my friends shares his prayerful thoughts of the day most mornings and they are just what it takes to set the time for the day…
I have a group of men that I talk to on a regular basis, and prayer have been powerful! And in my church I am close with the deacons and pastor!