Faithful and Bold: Embracing Our Role as Christian Men

What does it truly mean to embody faithful manhood in today's ever-changing world? Join us as we tackle this pressing question and offer a roadmap for becoming strong, faith-filled men who lead with conviction and love. Drawing from the wisdom of scripture and the lives of biblical figures like David, Moses, and Paul, we confront the cultural shifts that challenge men to stand firm in their beliefs. Through prayer, mentorship, and community, we explore how to cultivate the courage to live out our faith boldly and leave a lasting legacy of Christ-like behavior in our families.

The church plays an essential role in nurturing men of faith, and we emphasize the power of community and accountability in spiritual growth. We highlight daily practices like Bible reading and prayer as the bedrock of a robust faith. Delving into the power of choice, inspired by Joshua 24:15 and Ezekiel 22:30, we show how small, everyday decisions shape us into the men we are called to be. This episode isn't just about theory; it's about taking intentional steps to put God first and mentor the next generation, proving that faith is less about perfection and more about trusting in God's strength through our weaknesses.

Chapters

• 0:00 The Call to Faithful Manhood
• 8:16 Building Strong Men of Faith
• 13:41 Stepping Into Faith-Filled Manhood

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:34

Welcome back, dear listeners, to another episode of the Crossroads Collective Podcast. I'm your host, javier, and today we're diving into a topic that's been weighing heavily on my heart and, I believe, on the hearts of many within our faith community. Where have all the strong, faith-filled men who defend the faith gone, and how can we become such men who stand up for our families and faith in a loving Christian but stern way? Before we dive into this crucial conversation, let's take a moment to invite God's presence into this time. Together, let's pray. Dear Heavenly God, we come before you with hearts open and minds ready to receive your word. Today, we ask for your wisdom and guidance as we explore what it means to be strong, faith-filled men who stand up for your truth. Let this discussion be filled with grace, understanding and courage. May your word illuminate our path and may we be inspired to live out the calling you have placed upon our lives as men of faith. In Jesus' name, we pray Amen.

Speaker 1: 1:27

Now let's get into this. Let's start with the scriptures, because that's where we find the foundation of all truth. In the book of Ephesians, chapter 6, verse 10, it states Finally be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Notice that the Apostle Paul is not instructing us to be strong in our own abilities, ideas or courage. He specifically instructs us to be strong in the Lord and in His might. This means that our strength as men doesn't originate from our physical capabilities, intellectual knowledge or self-confidence. Instead, it comes from being rooted in Christ, completely dependent on Him. When we look at biblical figures like Moses, joshua, david or Paul, we see men who weren't perfect but were deeply committed to following God's calling with all their hearts. They stood firm in the face of opposition and never wavered, even when it cost them dearly. So why are fewer men standing up for their faith today? I believe part of the answer lies in cultural shifts. There's been an increasing push towards a more secular and less faith-driven society, where traditional values are often mocked or dismissed. As a result, many men feel pressured to blend in, to stay silent or to avoid standing up for what they believe.

Speaker 1: 2:33

In the book of Romans, chapter 12, verse 2, it says Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Brothers, this verse is calling us to stand out, not to fit in. It's telling us that we must be different, set apart and unafraid to let our face shine brightly in a world that often prefers darkness. Another reason could be the lack of mentorship. In past generations, younger men had older, godly men who poured into their lives, guiding them on how to live out their faith boldly. But somewhere along the way this mentoring process faded and we now have a generation of men trying to figure out their role in the faith all on their own. John Eldredge, in his book Wild at Heart, emphasizes that every man needs a battle to fight, an adventure to live and a beauty to rescue. Yet if we aren't taught how to engage in this battle of faith, many of us will step back, feeling ill-equipped or overwhelmed. Standing up for your faith requires courage, conviction and a deep understanding of who you are in Christ.

Speaker 1: 3:34

Let's revisit one of the greatest examples of a man of faith in the Bible David. Let's revisit one of the greatest examples of a man of faith in the Bible David. When facing Goliath, david didn't have the physical stature or weaponry that most would have expected of a warrior, but what he did have was an unshakable confidence in God. In the first book of Samuel, chapter 17, verse 45,. David says to the Philistine you come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This is what we need today men who aren't afraid to stand up and say I come in the name of the Lord.

Speaker 1: 4:07

But how do we cultivate this kind of faith? It starts with spending time in the word of God. There's no substitute for this. In the book of Psalms, chapter 119, verse 105, it says your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. If we're not grounded in scripture, we'll be easily swayed by every wind of doctrine or societal trend. We need to immerse ourselves in the Bible, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions and beliefs.

Speaker 1: 4:33

Prayer must become a priority. As Charles Spurgeon once said, a prayerless soul is a Christless soul. Gentlemen, we cannot expect to lead our families, defend our faith or stand firm against opposition if we aren't connected to the source of our strength. Make prayer a daily habit, not just something you turn to when things get tough. We need to surround ourselves with other men of faith. In the book of Proverbs, chapter 27, verse 17, it says iron sharpens iron and one man sharpens another. Find men who will challenge you, encourage you and hold you accountable. We weren't meant to walk this journey alone.

Speaker 1: 5:07

What it means to be a faith-filled man within your family, being a strong, faith-filled man, isn't just about showing up on Sundays or knowing Bible verses by heart. It's about modeling Christ-like behavior every single day. Your children should see in you a man who isn't perfect but who is wholeheartedly pursuing God. They need to see you praying, reading your Bible, loving their mother and treating others with respect and kindness. In the book of Ephesians, chapter 5, verse 25, the apostle Paul instructs Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. This kind of love is not about dominance or authority. It's about self-sacrifice, patience and an unwavering commitment to love and serve your family, just as Christ loves us. This is the example that sets you up for part as a strong, faith-filled man.

Speaker 1: 5:52

Many men feel inadequate in this role, thinking they don't have what it takes to lead spiritually. But let me remind you of the powerful words in the book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 13, I can do all things through him who strengthens me. It's not about our ability. It's about God's ability working through us. When we rely on him, we find that we're more than capable of being the man he's called us to be. Our culture is constantly shifting and as Christian men it can feel like we're swimming against the tide, but God's word encourages us to stand firm.

Speaker 1: 6:22

In the first book of Corinthians, chapter 16, verse 13,. It says Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. This verse calls us to be alert, to stand our ground, to embody true strength and to act like men who are unashamed of their faith. There's a tendency in today's world to equate gentleness with weakness or kindness with passivity, but these are the very qualities that Christ himself exhibited, and they require great strength. Being a faith-filled man means knowing when to be gentle and when to be firm, when to speak up and when to listen, when to extend grace and when to stand your ground. One of my favorite quotes is by John Calvin, a great Protestant reformer, who said A dog barks when his master is attacked. I would be a coward if I saw that God's truth is attacked and yet would remain silent. This speaks volumes about what it means to be a defender of the faith. We don't need to be aggressive, but we do need to be courageous. We need to speak up when God's truth is being challenged, even if it means standing alone.

Speaker 1: 7:19

Fathers, I want to take a moment to speak directly to you. If we're going to raise up a new generation of strong, faith-filled men, it starts with us. Your sons are watching you and they're learning from how you handle life's challenges, how you treat others and how you prioritize your relationship with God. In the book of Deuteronomy, chapter 6, verses 6 through 7, it says and these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down and when you rise. This verse emphasizes the importance of being intentional about teaching your children God's word. It's not enough to just take them to church. This verse emphasizes the importance of being intentional about teaching your children God's Word. It's not enough to just take them to church or tell them to read the Bible. They need to see you living it out daily. Take time to pray with your children, to read the Bible with them and to answer their questions about faith. Create an environment where they feel comfortable coming to you with their struggles, doubts and fears. Let them know that it's okay to ask questions and that you're there to guide them on this journey.

Speaker 1: 8:16

The church has a vital role in building up strong, faith-filled men. It's not just about sermons and Sunday school. It's about creating a community where men can come together, sharpen one another and be equipped to face the battles that lie ahead. We need more churches that encourage men to step into their God-given roles as leaders, protectors and providers. In the book of Hebrews, chapter 10, verses 24 and 25, it says and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near. This means that we should be intentional about gathering with other believers, challenging one another and spurring each other on to live out our faith. If you're not part of a men's group or accountability group, I encourage you to find one. Surround yourself with men who are also striving to be strong, faith-filled leaders. If you can't find one, consider starting one the journey to becoming a strong man of faith isn't meant to be walked alone. Let's get practical. How do we begin this journey to becoming strong, faith-filled men who stand up for our families and faith in a loving Christian but stern way?

Speaker 1: 9:22

Commit to daily Bible reading. Start each day by reading the Word of God. Allow it to shape your thoughts, actions and decisions. The book of Joshua, chapter 1, verse 8, reminds us this book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous and then you will have good success.

Speaker 1: 9:45

Engage in regular prayer. Develop a habit of talking to God. Share your heart with Him, seek His guidance and listen for His voice. Remember the words in the book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 6. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Serve others. True strength is demonstrated through service. Look for opportunities to serve your family, church and community. In the book of Mark, chapter 10, verse 45, it says For even the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Speaker 1: 10:19

Stand firm in your faith. Don't be swayed by the opinions of others or the changing tides of culture. Stand firm in what you know to be true, as the book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 15, verse 58, says. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord, your labor is not in vain. Surround yourself with godly mentors. We can't emphasize enough the importance of having godly men around you. These mentors can be a source of wisdom, encouragement and accountability. The book of Proverbs, chapter 11, verse 14, says when there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Look for men in your church or community who are living out their faith and seek to learn from them.

Speaker 1: 11:02

Lead with love. Being a strong, faith-filled man doesn't mean being harsh or unapproachable. True strength is shown in how we love others. In the book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 13, verse 4, it says Love is patient and kind. Love does not envy or boast. It is not arrogant. If we are to lead our families, churches and communities well, we must lead with love, always reflecting the love that God has shown us there is a delicate balance between standing firm in your faith and showing grace to others. The goal isn't to win arguments or prove others wrong. It's to point them to Christ.

Speaker 1: 11:35

In the book of 1 Peter, 3, verse 15, it says but in your hearts, honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason, for the hope that is in you. Yet do it with gentleness and respect. This verse is a powerful reminder that we should always be ready to defend our faith, but we must do so with gentleness and respect. It's not about being the loudest voice in the room or having the most knowledge. It's about showing others the love of Christ, even when we disagree. There will be times when standing up for your faith might make you unpopular or even cost you something. But remember the words of Jesus in the book of Matthew, chapter 5, verses 10 through 12. Blessed are those who are for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. These words are a reminder that following Christ isn't always easy, but it's always worth it. We stand firm, not because it's comfortable, but because it's our calling as men of faith.

Speaker 1: 12:41

What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? One of my favorite examples in the Bible is found in the book of 2 Timothy 4, verses 7 and 8, where the Apostle Paul, nearing the end of his life, says I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith Henceforth. There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but also to all who have loved his appearing. These words capture what it means to leave behind a legacy of faith. It's about fighting the good fight, finishing the race and keeping the faith, regardless of the challenges we face. When you live out your faith boldly, you leave a mark on the hearts of your family, friends and community that will last long after you're gone. Billy Graham once said the greatest legacy one can pass on to one's children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one's life, but rather a legacy of character and faith. This is so true. As men, we have an incredible opportunity to pass on a legacy of faith that will impact generations to come.

Speaker 1: 13:41

So how do we move forward from here? How do we become the strong, faith-filled men that God has called us to be? It starts with a decision. A decision to put God first in every area of your life, to seek Him daily and to stand up for what you believe in, even when it's difficult. The book of Joshua, chapter chapter 24, verse 15, states and if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the river or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. This declaration is a powerful reminder that we have a choice. We can either blend in with the world or we can choose to stand firm in our faith and serve the Lord with all our hearts.

Speaker 1: 14:22

Brothers, I want to challenge you today. What areas of your life have you allowed to be influenced by the world? Where have you compromised or taken a backseat in your faith? It's time to reclaim those areas and declare, just as Joshua did. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Speaker 1: 14:38

Let's also be intentional about raising the next generation of faith-filled men. If you have sons, nephews or young men in your church, invest in them. Show them what it means to be a man who loves God, who stands firm in his convictions and who isn't afraid to speak the truth in love. Teach them that true strength isn't about physical power or material success, but about walking humbly with God, seeking His will and serving others. It's not just about what we say. It's about how we live. Your actions speak louder than your words. When young men see you treating others with respect, honoring your commitments and prioritizing your relationship with God, they'll learn that being a man of faith isn't just something you talk about. It's something you live out every single day. Men, it's time to rise up. The world needs more men who are willing to stand up for what's right, who are unashamed of their faith and who are committed to living out the truth of God's word. The church needs more men who are willing to lead, serve and mentor others. Our families need more fathers, husbands, brothers and uncles who are willing to be the spiritual leaders they've been called to be.

Speaker 1: 15:39

The book of Ezekiel, chapter 22, verse 30, says and I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it. But I found none. This verse is a sobering reminder of how few men are willing to stand in the gap. But it doesn't have to be this way. We can be the men who stand in the gap, who build up the wall and who lead with courage, conviction and unwavering faith. As we bring this episode to a close, I want to remind you that you don't have to do this alone. God is with you every step of the way, and he has promised to equip you with everything you need to fulfill your calling. In the book of 2 Peter 1, verse 3, it says His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness. Through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, you have been called to be a man of faith, strength and integrity. You have been called to stand firm in the truth, to lead with love and to leave a legacy that points others to Christ, and with God's help, you can fulfill that calling. You know.

Speaker 1: 16:38

Before we wrap up today, I want to leave you with one last thought. It's easy to feel overwhelmed when you think about everything we've discussed. You might be wondering how can I possibly live up to all of this? How can I really become that strong, faith-filled man? And let me tell you, you're not alone in feeling that way. We all have moments when we feel like we're falling short, like we're not good enough or that we'll never measure up. But the beautiful thing about our faith journey is that God isn't asking us to be perfect. He's not expecting us to have it all together all the time. What he's asking for is for us to step out in faith, to trust him and to take things one step at a time.

Speaker 1: 17:14

Remember Peter. This was a man who walked on water when he kept his eyes on Jesus but started to sink the moment he looked at the wind and waves around him. And yet, even in his doubt and fear, jesus reached out and caught him. That's the God we serve, a God who's always there to catch us, even when we stumble. In the book of Philippians, chapter 1, verse 6, it says and I am sure of this that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. This is God's promise to you. He's not done with you yet. The journey might be tough and there will be challenges along the way, but he's going to see you through it. So, as we step forward together, let's do it with confidence, knowing that we're not walking this path alone. And if you ever feel like you're struggling or that you're not living up to the man you want to be, just remember this God's grace is sufficient for you. His strength is made perfect in your weakness. And that's really what being a strong, faith-filled man is all about. It's not about having all the answers or never making mistakes. It's about trusting in the one who does have all the answers, the one who never makes mistakes. It's about being willing to say God, I can't do this on my own, but I know that with you I can.

Speaker 1: 18:20

You know, as I was preparing for this episode, I couldn't help but think about the small steps we take every day. Sometimes we get so focused on the big picture that we forget it's the little everyday moments that really shape us into the men we're called to be. It's in those quiet, often unnoticed choices where our faith really grows. Maybe it's the decision to get up a little earlier to spend time in prayer, even when you'd rather sleep in. Or maybe it's choosing to bite your tongue when you're frustrated with your spouse or kids and instead responding with kindness. Perhaps it's taking that moment to encourage a friend who's struggling, or being willing to admit when you've made a mistake and ask for forgiveness. These are the moments where our faith is put into action. And here's the thing God sees every single one of those moments. Nothing is too small or insignificant for Him. He's not just looking at the big, dramatic acts of faith. He's also looking at those simple, everyday acts of obedience. In fact, it's often in those small, consistent choices that our faith becomes the strongest.

Speaker 1: 19:17

I'm reminded of the parable of the mustard seed that Jesus shared in the book of Matthew, chapter 13, verses 31 and 32. He said the kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches. That tiny seed represents the small steps of faith we take each day. It may not seem like much at first, but over time, as we continue to trust God, those small steps grow into something beautiful, something that can impact the lives of those around us in ways we might never have imagined. So I want to encourage you don't underestimate the power of those small, faithful steps. Don't feel discouraged if you're not where you want to be yet. Just keep showing up, keep trusting God and keep taking those steps forward. He's doing something amazing in you, even if you can't see it right now.

Speaker 1: 20:09

Thank you for joining me today on the Crossroads Collective Podcast. It's been an honor to walk alongside you as we explore what it means to be a strong, faith-filled man. I pray that you feel encouraged, inspired and ready to step into the role that God has called you to. Let's close in prayer. Dear Heavenly God, thank you for this time together. Thank you for the reminder that you have called us to be strong, faith-filled men who stand up for our families and our faith. Give us the courage to stand firm, the wisdom to lead and the strength to persevere. Help us to be men who are unafraid to declare your truth, who are committed to living out our faith and who are willing to leave a legacy that honors you. We pray that you would guide us, protect us and empower us as we walk this journey of faith. In Jesus' name, we pray Amen. Until next time. Be strong, be courageous and keep standing firm in the faith. May God bless you abundantly and may.