As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17

Ever try to shave with a dull razor? Ever feel like life is a dull razor?

A big challenge for men who are followers of Jesus is to keep the flame of faith alive, sharp and vibrant. I have counseled with so many men, both new in the faith and long-time believers, whose flame was just a flicker.  Their faith, and sometimes their lives, had lost a sense of purpose.

Knowledge of science is not my strong suit, but the concept of entropy can apply to us men: the degradation of the matter and energy in the universe to an ultimate state of inert uniformity.  Many of our wives may agree with this statement.  One of my wise mentors defined it this way:  every system in the universe breaks down unless there is new energy applied to reverse the process. My dad always said, “You only get out of something what you put into it.”

Men, coming along side one another to encourage, exhort, and study the Word, will bring new energy. As great as wives and girlfriends are, in my opinion, only another man can celebrate a major business contract won, going 6 for 6 in slow pitch game, leading another man to Christ or bringing that man-to-man empathy when there is a job loss, a financial reversal or some other loss. Don’t doubt me on this point.

I have been privileged to be in, and lead many groups with men over the years.  Small groups with wives and girlfriends are important too, but men do not share what is on their hearts as much as when they are with other men.  It takes time, but men build trust with each other when given a chance, and sadly, many men miss this opportunity in their life.  What to do:

• If young in faith, seek a mentor, or a small group with a mature leader
• If your faith flame is weak, seek a small group of men, organize one, take mentorship training and assist a man newly growing in his faith.
• Join a men’s bible study, take a missions trip with some guys, find an affinity group (golfers, fishing, art, woodworking) and build a relationship.

Man of God: If your faith is like a Gillette blade after 5 shaves, take the challenge to find a prayer partner, small group of men or a mission project.   You will find God there with you and meaning too. Have a nice day, dude.