Lance and I were talking about raw, authentic and uplifting men's group and we shared how we see that in my men's group (Men of Faith) and his men's group (Fight Club) and the relationships that are not only being formed, but are growing both spiritually and physically. For Lance and I, our men's groups have never been about numbers. Rather, they are about guys getting together in raw, honest and transparent ministry. The thing about Lance that drove me to this website back in 2007, was his willingness to abase himself and be real with who he is and where he came from. He is brutally honest (in a loving way) and tells me how it is. We often say that we wish that each of us lived closer, but we do not!1st John 3: 11 For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 24 Whoever keeps His commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us. Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. 2 Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (His love). 9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. James 5: 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.. 19 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
Legacy Dads (and men) if you are looking for a men's group in your church like this (and you don't have one) don't wait on someone else to affirm it. Grab a few other guys (who you see are willing to be faithful in the word and prayer and an admitted sinner - saved by grace) and start worshiping together. Start praying together. Start reading the Bible together and talk about real life issues.
Remember the Cardinal Rule #1 - what is said in that group stays in that group.
Remember the Cardinal Rule #2- if a brother confesses and shares that you are now on holy ground. Don't trample over that with your words and thoughts of how to fix that brother- BECAUSE YOUR SHOULDN'T. If the Spirit is moving you to talk or walk with that brother - then grab him after the small group of sharing and ask if you can meet for coffee or lunch or a meal or to talk and tell him that you were truly moved by him. If you build trust and a relationship that brother will likely give you the permission to speak into his life (then that is the time, not anytime before) to speak into him.
Remember the Cardinal Rule #3- Be relational. Be transparent. Share from your heart, share your sin, your failures and what God is doing in your life right now.
In all that you do, lean and trust on the Lord.
Blessings,
Dante