Do Hard Things!
A few years ago two brothers wrote a book called, "Do Hard Things!" That's a surprising title for a culture that craves things to be easy. Many love the slogan- "That was easy!" But what we glory in is never easy. What separates the mere males from manly men is challenge; it's doing hard things. Think about it. What do men glory in? It's the "tough stuff" they endured or the hard things they accomplished. Here are some examples-
The glory of policemen and firemen- their close calls with death.
The glory of iron workers- working high up on a skyscraper.
The glory of construction workers- dealing with incredible cold and hot outdoor conditions.
The glory of many blue collar workers- starting their day so early and long weeks with loads of overtime.
The glory of those in college or taking classes- late nights or all-nighters. studying for tough exams.
The glory of salesmen- enduring lots of rejection and no income because of such.
The glory of an entrepreneur- trying to get their dream to become a reality instead of the current nightmare that it is.
The glory of a husband- being faithful and forgiving even when his wife is having her time of the month or menopausal.
The glory of a dad- all the things he does, on top of everything else, to care for his kids.
What about the glory of Jesus? It included the cross!(John 12:23-33) Jesus is our ultimate example of a manly man. He did the hardest of hard things. Yes, the glory of a man involves doing hard things, not easy things. Read today's passage in Proverbs- 6:1-11. (If time permits, read 6:12-19.)
Psalm 15:4 says that the man who may live close to God must keep his oaths even when it hurts. The man in Prov.6:1-5 is exhorted to resolve his problem even if it he must forego sleep. "Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids." This reminds me of the pledge each of us has made, "No scripture, no sleep." We will allow no sleep to our our eyes until we have spent time reading and sharing what we got from God's word. I know that's a sacrifice at times when our day is unusually full and our routine gets blown out of the water. But that is a "glory" opportunity- when we do hard things for God's glory.
1.-For the sake of new men joining M3, share about a time that was hard for you to do something, but your persevered anyway.
2.-Now share about a time that was hard for you to blog and what has helped you to be faithful. Or perhaps share about a time when you didn't blog and what you learned from that. This will help newcomers to learn from you how to be unstoppable.
I will take these stories and put them together for new men as they join us down the road. And the men you enrich and enlist will be your glory as well. Paul said of those he reached, "Indeed, you are our glory and joy!" 1 Th.2:20. So keep up the good work, even if it seems hard. Be faithful to sow seeds in others lives. You will reap, if you don't give up. Do hard things! Be faithful to God and the mission- to multiply manly men. Do hard things! Be like the determined ant we read about in v.6-11. Ants don't need others reminding them what to do. Manly men don't need people calling them up to remind them to be true to their word and God's word. They do hard things. Doing hard things is your manly glory. And if persecution should ever come our way, as it did to Jesus and the apostles, be true to the Lord even unto death. Jesus promised, "Be faithful, even to the point of death and I will give you the crown of life." Rev.2:10. Do hard things. You will never regret it. When it's hard to blog, do it anyway. That is your glory! Anybody can take the easy way out. Do hard things. That is how a manly man of God is made. He keeps his commitments. So you know what to do- Do hard things! (Note: I am not lifting up our Bible blogging as the height of spirituality and manliness. Actually, it is just a basic. If I am not faithful to my word and to God's word, I'll make excuses for anything and everything else that strikes me as hard or inconvenient. Manliness starts and continues by being faithful to God's word and your word. Here's another manly piece of advice-
Eliminate unmanly words from your vocabulary.
Here are a few that I've heard grown men use, which cheapens their character and manliness-
Remind me (Really? Is he such a little boy that he needs someone else to do such for him? He needs to take responsibility for writing it down and doing it.)
You should have reminded me! (How many wives hear this from their husbands? No, it's his responsibility not someone else's if he failed to do it. )
I was really busy. (Me too. Too busy to keep your word? Let me introduce you to some men who are a lot busier, but sacrifice even sleep to be true to the Lord and their word. Do hard things!)
I wasn't able to do it. (Wasn't able, or wasn't determined? The nation you are from will determine your success or failure in life. Are you from the nation of Determination or Procrastination?)
I need you to hold me accountable. (That sounds spiritual, but it's often an excuse for future failure- "I would have succeeded, but you didn't call me up enough to keep me accountable." Instead, tell that man- "Do you want to be held accountable? No problem, you are being held accountable by God. So do what needs to be done. I will encourage you to succeed, but I won't treat you as a weakling because you are a warrior. So man up and fight! Do hard things."
I'll try to get to it. or I tried. Ugh! To quote the wise Jedi Master, Yoda, when Luke Skywalker halfheartedly said he would give it a try- "No. Try not. Do or do not. There is no try." Just how hard did the guy try? I taught my little children, "Try until you triumph!"
I didn't know how to do it. or I couldn't find your phone number. (Really? How hard did the guy look? If he was paid $500 to find it, could he track down the know how or the phone number via mutual friends, the internet, etc.?)
So instead of using such unmanly words, seek to rectify the situation. Perhaps say, "I'm sorry I blew it. What can I do to make it up to you?" Try saying that to your wife with empathy when you've hurt her feelings. It sure beats using weak, unmanly excuses, which only make things worse.
"Be like the determined little ant, it's never lazy, saying, I can't."
Prepare to be impressed by God's amazing little creatures in the following video.
3.-Copy a verse or phrase onto your MP3 card that you liked from our portion in Proverbs 6 and seek to share it with others. (And perhaps share the ant video with your kids or others. Always be on the look out for things you could pass on to enrich others.)
Announcements
I am very happy to introduce to you a good friend of mine, Ed Lake. Ed holds a Master's degree in Education and has taught for several years overseas. Currently Ed and his family live in Singapore where he teaches. (So thanks to him, M3 is already going global:) Ed is a very careful and deep thinker and a loving brother, so I know you will enjoy having him on the team. We're glad to welcome you on board Ed!
I want to honor each and every one of you as you recruit and multiply manly men. This is our mission and your lasting legacy. Thus, on our GREAT Scoreboard, you'll notice a new column that does just that. Recruiting others is not really a hard thing, but it is a great thing. Way to go and grow God's kingdom. Also thanks for faithfully putting your points on the scoreboard. May I suggest that some of you strive to score at least 25 points a week. You'll notice others are scoring well over 50. Do hard things that will make a GREAT impact in others lives. Bless you!
We now have a new tool to help new men be better oriented to the blog. Andre gave this good suggestion at Sunday's meeting. Now you'll find a "Welcome to M3" button in the upper right corner of our blog, right under the Home and Resources buttons. The article within especially explains about the GREAT scoreboard, earning the Unstoppable award pin, the MP3 cards, and includes tips on writing and publishing one's comments. Hope it helps.
If the following brothers are in your fire team or you also want to encourage them, then please contact Daniel, Lucas and Chuy who were MIA yesterday. Thank you.
1. When I started my company I committed my all to make it successful for the benefit of providing security to all my employees and their families , and that it would be our company and the more it grew and prospered - the more they would share in that. There was such a positive attitude and all was great even though we had no customers yet-- so they worked hard building equipment while I drove all over the country trying to sell. Just as we began to land some customers there was a competitor that took notice and filed a law suit against us just to cause us serious financial harm and run us out of money before we got going. Legal costs ran about $5000/ mo. Which was nothing to the competitor. It was an extremely difficult time for all of us, but we persevered and worked even harder to succeed and carried that burden for several months. Just as it was becoming insurmountable, we found holes in their claims and took the info to the judge and allowed a counter suit if they did not cease and desist.
ReplyDeleteThey were forced to permanently withdraw their suit and we got stronger together. With a team of dedicated and focused on our mission- we became unstoppable and that band of brothers created an incredibly solid and fruitful company with all employees dedicated to one another and our mission was accomplished time and time again. This is my goal for M3 that we solidify an unstoppable band of men focussed on our goal together and build our legacy to be shared by many loving Young Christian men!
2. I had a painful surgery on my left hand and it was bandaged heavily like a boxing glove, then 2 weeks later I had the same procedure completed on my right hand and now I was wearing boxing gloves on both hands with only the tips of 2 fingers sticking out. It was very painful but I had committed to this new band of brothers that I would contribute to the blog no matter what the circumstances. So I never missed a day as I leaned on the Lord for strength, focus, and guidance to post effectively. Even on the day of surgery I posted although I was drugged from being put to sleep. Why? Because I see such potential to lead good men to Christ and do all I can as a part of an unstoppable team to help God save so many stumbling men who need us. Now is our time before his coming to do these good works for our Lord
3. Did it
That's awesome Jack! Way to be faithful and persevere.
Delete"Wow!" That is what came out of my mouth! What tremendous dedication Jack for both bands of brothers! YOu model and reveal a huge element of success- unstoppable determination.
DeleteThanks jack for being an example to me, I will keep pushing.
DeleteGlad you are on fire for the Lord Jack. It is encouraging.
Delete1. At one of my first jobs I had a terrible boss. He would take credit in front of his boss for work that I would do, would make me do things his way even though I would have a better way of doing things. Constantly trying to make me look bad in front of his boss, etc. Sometimes it was really hard for me to go to work, but I really needed the job so I would just get up every morning and pray to God and would ask for a sense of peace and strength to continue. Eventually my boss retired and I was actually rewarded at work by bing given his job and a nice increase in salary. This would not have happened if I would have given up and quit my job. I thank God for being there with me and helping me through those dark days.
ReplyDelete2. Concerning the blog..... Wow several times I have written all of my comments and press the 'publish' button and everything disappears. Very frustrating to have to try to remember everything I had written and type it again, but I know I have made the commitment to do it, so I just try to give myself some extra time in case this happens again.
Roger thanks for sticking with the blog, your posts are encouraging. Love your dedication. Bless you brother.
DeleteI laughed and clapped regarding how God turned things around for you at your old job Roger. Wonderful!
DeleteRegarding the blog, if there was a way we could slay that cyber monster that has devoured your work and mine and others, we would do it in a heartbeat. Perhaps we need to suggest copying our work before hitting the Publish button.
Thanks for persevering.
Roger. I actually had a very similar situation with my first job out of college and it's very difficult to deal with it. You did exactly the right thing and persevered brother kudos to you my friend
Delete1. I had a hard time join this group because of my sinful nature. I'm not going to lie I wasn't sure if I wanted to give up my sinful ways. Now that I'm in it. I'm glad I made this decision to joining M3. I've learned a lot and feel a lot more closer to god. I gave up stuff that was mainly holding me back. Glad I made this decision.
ReplyDelete2.I found it hard to blog when I didn't set a specific time. I feel I needed to do that to make it a routine thing. Ever since I did that I've been consistent.
Amen. James that's so encouraging to hear. Be a little to the others around you bro. Stand firm!
DeleteI'm so glad you ended up determined to join James! You have been such a faithful edition. I know someone considering M3 who may need to hear your story, so I'll contact you soon.
DeleteWow James great testimony of how you took that bold step of joining M3 and are receiving the blessings of God by being obedient to Him.
DeleteI'm glad you made those changes. Way to prioritize
Delete1- as I read this I think of past and present, I used to be very lazy in many situations other than work in the past but every time I would get myself in trouble I would manage to build courage and tell myself "you dug your own hole now learn to get out of that hole and don't give up". I see my life now as I am coming up on 5 years of sobriety and I continue pushing, building courage, striving to be a better man in the lords eyes and be an example to others. My business is stressful but praying helps me push hard through out the day and fine the love that I lack at times.
ReplyDelete2- in reference to blogging, I make excuses all the time because my schedule is completely occupied at times even until midnight, from not being able to drive to taking care of my business at the shop, to the mentoring program I am affiliated to. I do make excuses all the time in my head but like I told a brother before, the lord will give me the strength and courage to do this because ultimately that's my purpose in life, to keep pushing regardless of my foot hurting badly at times, my hands getting numb, neck pains, little sleep ETC. I made a commitment to God to be a great husband and I made a commitment to M3 and I don't want to break a promise like I did with my daughters when I was drinking, driving and drugging, that I would not do all that stuff again. I have fear about the blog, like I don't belong, like what will others say, what will they think about me. I always wanted to be in the military but never was, I ran my life around thinking SEMPER FI but now I know where I should put my loyalty at.
Yes! That's awesome Guillermo."I know where I should put my loyalty at..." I love this. There's something about finding who we are in Christ, our confidence, our value, our strength...it's a powerful place to be!
DeleteExcellent Guillermo! What great dedication. You've also identified lies of the enemy that stop so many- "I don't belong"
DeleteWhenever that thought surfaces, please replace it with the truth. "M3 men say I do belong. They want me and need me. It's only the enemy that wants to derail me because he knows what a great impact my life will have as I share with others." That's the truth! Thanks for persevering!
You are in the right spot Guillermo. We all fall short of the glory of God.
DeleteProverbs 6:16-19
ReplyDeleteThere are six things the Lord hates,seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,a lying tongue,hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out liesand a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
1. Probably one of the most challenging things I've done was train for and then run the Chicago Marathon. I was never a runner, hated running. When I was in my darkest times, I started running as a way to escape and be alone with my thoughts. Little by little one mile turned into two and two turned in four miles and etc. But I remember signing up, was I really ready for 26 miles. I ended up running with World Vision and I knew that there was a greater purpose for running than just my personal bucket list. It was really hard to even want to run at times, especially when I was hitting the 10+ mark. Race day came and I ran taking in the city, the neighborhoods, and at mile 23 I wanted to give up. I was calling for the stretcher. Wanting to throw in the towel, but I just kept looking forward, praying, asking God for that extra boost of strength, but knowing that this was for some thing higher and bigger than myself. I ended up finishing my last mile faster than any of the miles throughout the race. And when I looked back I couldn't help but notice the spiritual reference as the Bible talks about this life is like a race. There will be hard miles when we want to give up, but press on. Theres a cloud of witnesses cheering you on. That part of scripture came alive to me.
ReplyDelete2. Blogging has become a part of me now...one time I had to be at work early so my normal morning was altered a bit. I got into the day and never blogged. As I was laying down to sleep, exhausted from the day, I jumped up and remember I forgot to blog! I had a bit of adrenaline flowing by then. But I knew that I needed to stick to my commitment and didn't want to let my team down.
3. Did it.
Welcome Ed Lake!
Excellent story about your marathon Eddie and the spiritual analogies! I laughed about the desire to call for the stretcher. Way to persevere! Thanks for being such a great example and encourager to so many.
DeleteWow very inspiring story about training and running a marathon. I can surely identify with that, after training with a group for 12 weeks which meant getting up at 5:30am every Saturday to do my long runs with the group (instead of sleeping in on my day off) I finally ran my first half marathon this past Sunday. I was able to complete it in the time I had trained for and very happy with the results.
DeleteBut it wasn't all easy, around mile 11 I started to get tired and wanted to slow down, but I just trusted my training and new I could complete the race as planned, so I just kept running and followed the pace leader and was able to finish.
Likewise in our daily life we need to trust our training in the Bible, the more we study it and store it in our hearts the better equipped we will be to face challenges in life. Always looking forward to Jesus our only true leader.
1.Just being overwhelmed with life circumstances. The storms of life, my recent divorce, and all the devastation that comes along with it. That is why I joined M3 to be encourage and to encourage others "but let us encourage one another "Hebrews 10:25.
ReplyDeleteI don't read or spell well, and I am dislexic and have atension deficit.So all these flaws make it difficult for me to blog. But I persevere through my conditions and try to contribute whatever I can. In the Old Testament God used a donkey and if He use a donkey He can also use me. Help me Lord to be used by you.
Wow! What an inspiration you are George! You are doing a great job at overcoming your conditions. I commend you for persevering through your storms of life and not letting anything hold you back. God bless you brother
DeleteThanks George. You're presence in this group is a really blessing. God is so concerned with everything you're going through. Remember He's there through the trials and the change.
DeleteBrother George, I admire you all the more. Thanks for sharing your struggles. You can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens you. Philippians 4:13
DeleteI echo Phil's good words to you George!
DeleteHi George. Google has a text to speech function so that you can just say out loud what you want typed, which might be easier for you. You can also highlight text and have it read to you if that helps too.
DeleteProverbs 6:4 (NIV) Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids.
ReplyDeleteMatthew 4:4 But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”
If I work at 5am, I take the no scripture, no sleep approach. If I don't work early, I take the no bible, no breakfast. I have missed a few meals and got it done before eating a late lunch.
When I went to the retreat, I worked almost a twelve hour day. I picked up by brothers and went to the retreat. I incorrectly prioritized and went to play basketball after one of our first meetings. I ended up posting right before the cut off. Terrible mistake. I ended up finding out later that my words didn't post, even though my phone said published.Had to re-post via laptop. Had I prioritized, I would have taken a laptop and found a wi-fi spot. Recently, I had to work another 12 hour shift and my daughter had a softball game right after. Of-course it wasn't a home game. I ended posting around 12:30a and had to get up around 4:30a for another wonderful 12 hr shift. I recently was working on a certification and I took it lightly, considering that I had passed the two others the first time. No not this time, the third time was the charm. It didn't stop me for reading the word and sharing with my band of brothers. I have realized that it is not about time but prioritization. I pray that we put God first no matter what we do.
You are a hard working brother Sam! Thats awesome that you have a super busy life yet you still, somehow manage to find time to blog!
DeleteSometimes our best laid plans just fall apart, the important thing is that we keep trying. I like the "no bible, no breakfast" approach you take on days when you don't work early. On days when I wake up checking my email or cathcing up on the news, my wife calls me out on it by asking if I've given the Lord thanks for another day of life, but it shouldn't be her responsibility to remind me. Its on me to place my commitment to God before all other committments.
DeleteBrother Sammy, I'm proud of you. All the hard work and sacrifice is paying off. Luke 10:42 "but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
DeleteExcellent commitment and example you are setting Sam! You are a great model to other men.
Delete1) growing up I loved business and hated school, I grew up thinking I would only get through high school. I tried starting many small business but people would always shut me down for being to young, to ambitious, and even for the way I looked. Then I left to the military and i thought i was never going to be good enough for anything. My most recent deployment I had a night were i had two decisions either end my life by committing suicide or decide to live life through By finding Gods purpose for me. I decided to live life and make life worth living. I learned that people want to see you succeed but never succeed more than them. I now have a start business that I have a vision to expanded without any limitations but Gods will.
ReplyDelete2) I have been trying everyday to make the blog more part of my life and to grow with my brothers.
Great job Andre! Congrats and good luck with your business brother. Your perseverance has paid off and it will continue to do so.
DeleteWhen you live for Him life is worth living! When you seek Him, you'll find yourself and your value . He knows and sees the potential in you. That's why He laid His life down for you. Thanks for sharing Andre!
DeleteBrother Andre, I'm so glad you chose this life and better yet, life eternal :-)
DeleteWere are glad you are with us. I'm glad you found God's purpose in your life. Thank you for sharing. I felt like that in my teenage years. I'm glad God had a purpose, a calling. God bless you.
DeleteThanks for sharing that Andre. Isn't it great to be in a band of brother who are so encouraging?!
Delete1. One of the hardest things i ever did was getting clean from drugs and alcohol. I was used to getting high as soon as i woke up, before i ate, and before i went to sleep everyday. For years it was my way of life and the only thing i really cared about. If i would go two days without using i would become physically sick. The obsession and compulsion was uncontrollable. I didnt know how to live with or without drugs. When my life became completely unmanageable and i hated everything about myself, that's when i made a decision to change. I cried out for Gods help. He guided me into recovery meetings and back to church. I continued to relapse many times but i didnt give up. I would get on my knees with tears pouring from my eyes and beg God to help me. I was disgusted with what i had become. One day i woke up after destroying the day that had just passed, and i knew i was done. I prayed to God and i promised Him that i would never use again. I felt a surrender from within. God paved the road for me and each day that i stayed clean He would reward me. He brought healthy friends into my life and steered me away from mayhem. I gave it my all and persevered. I have been clean for a very long time now. I dont need drugs anymore to fill the void . Jesus was the solution that i was searching for.
ReplyDelete2. I believe that i have missed blogging 2 times and both times my excuse to myself was that i was to busy and too tired to do it. The next day i felt the guilt and shame kick in. I had made a promise to blog daily and i didnt keep my promise. I felt disappointment. The moment that i blogged the following day made me feel better tho. So i am going to do my best to not miss anymore days.
3. Proverbs 6:16-19 There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devices wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush to evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
Amen! He breaks chains! And our hearts! Only to fill us with what we truly were in need of, His Love.
DeleteBrother Phil, every time I read your postings and the encouragement you give, it makes me smile with joy. I'm contemplating nicknaming you Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement".
DeleteTremendous Phil! How very glad we are that God has delivered you and that you are so committed to God and His word and the team.
Delete1) One difficult thing for me has been creating boundaries with my family that have ended in separation or a minimized relationship. I had to choose the wife I married over Much of the family I grew up with.
ReplyDelete2) many times I'm really tired and I tell myself to just get started then focus on the next step. When I have failed to blog it's generally because I allowed other important things to distract my attention. So the fight has been to plan so that my responsibilities are protected, rearranged or even set down so that I can prove myself faithful through my actions. There are more good things then you have time for decide what you want to be known for and do those things.
3) 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—
11and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man. Many times the difficulties in our lives are simply the result of failure to act.
1. Protect the important things Tony. Especially that joy that you have for the Lord. Don't let the enemy try and steal it.
DeleteBrother Tony, "I allowed other important things to distract my attention." I'm guilty of that as well. I read a devotional by Oz Hillman several years ago that enlightened me to the fact that good things may not always be God things. I had to learn to prioritize, God, family and then church ;-)
DeleteThanks for sharing brothers. I enjoy your input and encouragement
DeleteThanks Tony for your good reflections! We are all enriched when you write.
DeleteFirst of all, I'd like to applaud everyone who shared your sound Godly advice and difficult experiences on yesterdays posting.
ReplyDelete1. We know life in general is difficult and full of affliction. Matthew 16:33b "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I (Jesus) have overcome the world.”
I would have to say that by far, walking by faith in God, Son and Holy Spirit has been the most difficult thing I've had to do. I'm somewhat analytical and as a result, I can find myself questioning things to the ump-thing degree. But it has been a blessing in disguise, for it has driven me to find the answers and seek Him with a passion I never thought possible. It hasn't been easy but well worth it.
2. Honestly, keeping up with the blog has gotten increasingly more difficult due to various factors. But what I've done to stay faithful is when and/or if needed I'll dissect it into smaller sessions throughout the day. It's not so much as not having the time, it's about making the time and prioritize what matters most.
Thanks for your constant encouragement and the sacrifice you make to reach out to the many.
DeleteAmen brother the analytical mind hungers for the details, and those details give a clearer picture and a deeper meaning to what others may accept as complete. Let your hunger drive you deep into the person of God.
DeleteI'm sorry to hear that blogging has gotten more difficult for you Robert, but I'm so glad that you continue to share with us, because everyone loves your insights and encouragements.
DeleteThank you for being with us, you are a great brother and a great inspiration to me.
DeleteGood afternoon, brothers.
ReplyDelete1. Ever since returning from my life-changing encounter with the Lord at this year's Men's Retreat, it has been challenging, but not impossible, to devote myself as fully to the Word as I have aimed to. The pressures of a competitive work environment, the responsibilities of a husband to his wife, and the lack of enough hours in a day to get everything done are all very real obstacles. But what are these obstacles to God and to a man of God in-the-making who desires strongly enough to dwell in the presence of the Lord. Only God has seen me through it. Through prayer and careful planning, I have been able to study my Bible earnestly throughout the week, blog about God's word daily as a new M3 recruit, read my daily devotional, and still manage to give my wife the time and attention she deserves (working lunches are great!). She, too, has seen that I am spread thin, but no longer distracted by aimless activities, and has been a tremendous source of encouragement and understanding. This hasn't been without its sacrifices. Hobbies and recreational activities have been set aside for the infinitely more important responsibility of building a relationship with God.
2. As exhausted as I am at the end of certain days, opening my Bible and feeding on the bread of life that is the Word of God fills me with the second wind I need to fend of sleep for that extra hour or two before finally turning in for some of the most well-rested nights I've had in a long time. Before M3 and before I turned to the Word, I would lay in bed, staring at the ceiling late into the night, conscious that something was missing in my day but never realizing that what I was missing was always within my reach. It has also helped to invest in Bible study tools, one of my personal favorites being Bible Study Magazine. God truly carries us on the wings of eagles when we live in service to one another and do the work God has called each of us to do. Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
I am too new to the group to have days when I didn't blog, but I know that I wouldn't feel the same satisfaction at the end of such days that I have on days when I've made the time to share in the Word and read the thoughts and contributions of my brothers.
Welcome to M3 Ed!
Brother Osiris, I really enjoy reading your postings. You have a God given talent for writing. Keep up the great works :-)
DeleteAmen it seems thinking may be your hobby. Keep sharing brother.
DeleteExcellent Osiris! I look forward to meeting you soon. You are such a gifted writer!
DeleteGreat job Osiris. I'm glad you found what is important. "Hobbies and recreational activities have been set aside for the infinitely more important responsibility of building a relationship with God."
DeleteI think the hardest time in my life was when my wife became a true believer and I did not understand what she was going through. She has been saved for three and half years longer then me. We almost got divorced because of her change of what I thought was religion. But God not only saved our marriage He saved me as well.
ReplyDeleteAs for blogging there has been times when I was too tired to blog but God help me persevere. I like the blog but at times I let the flesh get in the way.
Proverbs 6:10-11 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. I get don't be lazy when it comes to Godly things.
Brother Mike, I'm glad you chose to persevere. It was because of my wife that I recommitted my life to the Lord. I thank God for my better half :-)
DeleteMike, you are a man I can count on. If I asked you to take me to the airport at 3:00AM, I know I could count on you. You are an unstoppable man!
DeleteThere are times when I am
ReplyDeleteSo busy with my kids or just exhausted from work but I still blog. The days that I almost forget, I just have this feeling like something is missing.
So glad Ricardo that you heed that missing feeling! You are unstoppable!
DeleteBrother Rich, life has a way of eating away at our time. Being intentional about making time to meet with the Lord and fellow brothers is our responsibility. Hebrews 10:25 "not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
ReplyDeleteI some times fell frustrated and overwhelmed with my livening circumstances with my
ReplyDeletedaughter of how she keeps the house clean, l try hard not to get mad at her but sometimes
I just have let out. But when I think about how God must feel about we live are life's that
helps me though everything l am going though.
2. Everyday is a struggle for me of what say and selling words thank God for spell check
but now I try to blog every day to be unstoppable.
John you are doing a great job blogging. It does take time and diligence to be able to think through what you want to say and actually write it out. That was the hardest thing for me to actually write down what I was trying to convey. With time and God's help it will become easier. Keep up the good work.
DeleteJohn, you are truly an unstoppable man! From barely knowing how to navigate the Web page to reading your very insight words. My brother truly an honor seeing you grow.
DeleteGood John! I too need to thank God for Spell-Check! Lol! Reading over what I write before publishing helps a lot too.
Delete1.-For the sake of new men joining M3, share about a time that was hard for you to do something, but your persevered anyway.
ReplyDeleteToday was actually a hard day for me. I had to fire one of our vendors, something I've only had to do once before. What made this harder was that we became friends while working together over the last 5 years. I was nervous about it all morning, what helped me get through it was praying for God to take the anxiety away and give me right words to say. When I had the call I knew He was with me and would help me get through it.
2.-Now share about a time that was hard for you to blog and what has helped you to be faithful. Or perhaps share about a time when you didn't blog and what you learned from that.
For me the hardest time to blog was the week I was on vacation in Arizona. After visiting family or sightseeing we were getting back to the hotel later in the evening. After catching up on a few work e-mails I finally was able to read the day’s lesson and blog while my wife and son were sleeping (no scripture – no sleep). What kept me faithful was the commitment I made to M3 and myself. Had it not been for that commitment I probably wouldn't have read the Bible at all that week.
1) I guess one time it was hard for me to ask someone for forgiveness. Though it was not my fault. I knew deep inside I should have been more positive and calm the argument quickly. Yet I didn't I added more wood to the fire. I was like it's not my fault I didn't start it. Why should I ask for forgiveness? Deep inside I felt God pulled me to ask for forgiveness and be the example. It was amazing to see the other persons face like are you really doing that? 'It was not your fault it was mine." The great thing was that I felt like a load off my shoulders. I could breathe better.
ReplyDelete2) Well I guess you can say like recently work is so much right now. I get out super tired. In my mind I am like hey if I can get up early tired or not and go to work I can do my blog. Plus I don't see the blog as something I "have to do" rather I see it as something I want to do. I love to do.
3) DID IT
Yahoo Vince! How encouraging to hear that you love to blog, despite being super tired. What a great example!
Delete1.-For the sake of new men joining M3, share about a time that was hard for you to do something, but your persevered anyway.
ReplyDeleteThe company that I work for keeps it's work force very lean (and mean). Team members are sometimes overloaded with too many tasks to do, especially just before an audit or when special visitors (customers) come to tour the plant. Upper Management will often assign me extra tasks that need to be done immediately despite the other responsibilities I have some of which have dead lines to be completed by. That significantly increases the stress I am under and makes if very difficult to do with a good attitude.
2.-Now share about a time that was hard for you to blog and what has helped you to be faithful. Or perhaps share about a time when you didn't blog and what you learned from that. This will help newcomers to learn from you how to be unstoppable.
Often times, I just don't seem to have anything worth saying to blog about. I pray and reread the instruction and related passages several times, until I gleam something beneficial to me that I can share with others.
3) Did It
Thank you for being very honest David and lift you up brother for being so faithful to us.
DeleteWow! I never would have thought you struggled to find something worth sharing Dave. Your comments are always so reflective and rich!
DeleteI went to a work seminar where the guest speaker shared a detailed story of his climb to the top of Mt. Everest. His sharing was full of ups and downs, during planning, preparation and the execution of this super difficult task, including the tremendous resolve and perspective needed to stay the course and seek the ultimate goal, in spite of inclement weather, injuries, weakening health and disappointments before he reached the summit. He drew parallels to individual challenges and battles we may face and encouraged us to apply this persevering climbing perspective to our own lives.
ReplyDeleteI knew in listening to his story, that restoring my marriage is my Mt. Everest.
I have run a marathon, triathlons, even climbed the tallest mountain in southeast Asia and have accomplished things in personal and professional life that have required perseverance during tough times (all with the Lord's gifts and grace), but I have been and continue to be in the toughest battle of my life in restoring my marriage, my family and my identify as a good man, a godly man.
God has been my source and my refuge, and I praise Him for His strength, peace, love and grace... And I'm still climbing... getting to the top, no matter what.
I really love your post brother. It is so easy to neglect marriage for the quote godly and good activities unquote but such a constant suffering service to attain and nourish the heart of your wife and children. Stay encouraged, love your attitude.
DeleteThanks so much for sharing this Daniel. I didn't know about such accomplishments. Very good! And very good analogy to marriage and Mt. Everest. I want to help all men in M3 strengthen their marriages. You'll read about an opportunity to do so soon.
DeleteHi Daniel, Did you climb Everest? I appreciate the metaphor of climbing and marriage.
DeleteI pray that you get to the top Daniel.
Delete1. Seeking humility in a time of false accusations...
ReplyDeleteThere was a time not too long ago where this new Manger came into my garage in Att field. Let's just say for the lack of better words he was not the most honest man or a man of his word.. He tried to be friends with me but there is just some people out there that one does not feel right with... I kept my distance for the most part and one day he just said to me "I see how it is Mr. Prayer man" (told him I was a follower).. that season I was getting ready to prepare for missions trip, so I decided to tell my manager in advance on what was to come and what week & weekends I need available*keep in mind two months advance. He kept putting away, so I decided to email him for records sake.. I left everything alone. Two prior to trip I asked him if I have those days available, he responds"what days? You never said anything to me?!" Keep in mind if I leave with out approval, than I leave as a no call no show and this is for two weeks.... instead of bursting up in flames, I prayed and told other brothers as well to about issue. I didn't like that he forgot but also that he was calling me a liar in front of management. Management took his side and didn't approve, so I continued to pray & seek what was the right thing to do? So I took the email to union and management and quickly overturned it and approved my days!! God's blesses the meek! Wait it didn't stop there, after my mission trip the unfortunate happens... I get injured on the job. I quickly called my boss about injury and tries to tell me to work the way I am that it will go away. I gave him the scenerio on what happened and told him I'm going to doctor. We'll after exam and treatment I was off 3months. I come back from workman's comp and Manger tries to give me 5 day suspension because I lied to him. He stated it was my left shoulder that was bad, that when I came back into the garage on that day it was my right. This discussion was under my union, 2nd level and third level bosses.. I kept my composure, and during that process just sought before the Lord and said "let there be justice where it needs to be justice." After further review he did not have any evidence regarding which shoulder I was hurt.
instead of telling that manager off, God gave me compassion for him, one day I just went into his office and just simply said " I'm here for you if you ever need prayer cause God loves everyone" and left after that.
I'm laughing with amazement Ismael! What a great thing you did in going in to his office saying, I'm here for you if you ever need prayer cause God loves everyone"
DeleteHi Ismael, I think you are being a great witness in the workplace. You are making a very the positive impact on your boss and co-workers by handling this issue in a peaceful way. I think you were certainly living out Hebrews 12:14 "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord."
DeleteBrother Ismael, as I read your posting I could feel my blood pressure rising & anxiety setting in because all too often I've been in similar scenarios.
DeleteBy the grace of God I've learned to be still & know that regardless of the discomfort, He'll be exalted. You did great by waiting & trusting in Him.
Thank God that you heeded his instructions and hid them in your heart and now rather then a sob story you have a testimony.
Delete2. There was times early when M3 started that I was failing into my commitment on blogging. One of those days was a long day at work, that I just came home and went straight to bed. My wife quickly tapped me on my shoulder and said "hey don't you have to blog?" I Told her about M3 and what the meaning of it was. After that sentence she continued to say "this is a commitment that you are taking. You and i don't probably see it right now but it can become very fruitful for you!"
ReplyDeleteI thank my lovely wife for pushing me when I needed that nudge. Love you darling (Vanessa)
LOL! Thank God for our unstoppable wives!
DeleteAwesome! God is great. Thank God, He used her to nudge you :)
DeleteI read a book called the “Men’s Manual” by ATI and they recommend to take verses 1-3 very seriously- Don’t co-sign loans for others. They say instead to just gift brothers money that are real needs (not wants). I saw this in action at my church (Leng Kwang Baptist Church) in Singapore. A brother that I worked with who was also a member of the church had a medical condition that causes his cells to multiple very fast. These were usually non-cancerous, but on a check up it was discovered that he had a cancerous growth on his brain. The medical insurance at our school only covered 70% of the costs and the other 30% my friend had no means to pay. Out church made this known to the congregation and didn’t even need to pass any collection plate. Members discreetly contacted our pastor and paid the remaining costs.
ReplyDeleteOne thing that I had to do that was difficult was my first year living in Tianjin China: I didn’t really know Mandarin, didn’t know anyone in my city and had huge culture shock and depression. I particularly found it hard to only work 12 hours a week (that was considered full-time at my university): It sounds good, but its really difficult to have that much free time when all my friends were working all day. But I got connected to lots of great brothers and sisters in a great church in my city, spent a lot of time in the Word and grew tremendously. I think that experience gave me the confidence to move to Singapore a few years later and soon to Kazakhstan.
Ed, its great to have you aboard. Thank you for your transparency and vulnerability.
DeleteIt is great meeting you Ed, I look forward to purposely and intentionally advancing the Kingdom of God with you!
DeleteSo glad you're on board with us Ed! We all will be the richer for it. May the Lord use you to multiply many manly men throughout the world!
DeleteBrother Ed, it's wonderful having you on board M3, welcome! Looking forward to reading more of your insightful postings. God bless you and your family :-)
DeleteWelcome Ed. You don't let the nations come to you. You go to them and make disciples brother :) God bless.
Delete1.-For the sake of new men joining M3, share about a time that was hard for you to do something, but your persevered anyway.
ReplyDeleteI have a fear of public speaking and one time in college I had to do a 10 minute presentation in front of a whole class, I called off work and prepared the whole day just to get ready for that presentation. I really was at the point where I was just not gonna do it and fail the class. I just forced myself to do it and I was a nervous wreck. I was shaking and and you can hear the anxiety in my voice. Even though the worst of what I thought would happen did happen, I was happy I pushed myself to do it. I've done several presentations since then and I still get anxious before doing them, but I just make myself do it and now I've gotten better at doing it.
2.-Now share about a time that was hard for you to blog and what has helped you to be faithful. Or perhaps share about a time when you didn't blog and what you learned from that. This will help newcomers to learn from you how to be unstoppable.
I've been up and down in my blogging, sometimes I blog consecutively for a while and then I miss a couple of days. What I learn is that I let my team down when I don't blog. People hold me accountable for not blogging and i hate disappointing my brothers.
I've always enjoyed reading your comments Chuy and this is certainly true again today. "You will do great things and surely triumph." 1 Sam.26:25
DeleteBrother Chuy, proud of you for being courageous. Courage is not the absence of fear but rather pressing forward despite fear. God bless you :-)
DeleteDave's words really hit home. I probably have used all those excuses. By the grace of God and Master Yoda😁. I don't want to merely try but do! I must continually go to Ant. Teach me your ways!
ReplyDeleteAh, but you are a manly man now Master Nic!
DeleteBrother Nic, to my own shame, I've used them before well. But I thank God for spiritual growth and maturity. 1 Corinthians 13:11
DeletePraise God that your heart remains tender and able to receive the blessed pain of conviction without it we don't change. I praise you for sharing the battle scares of your past. Glad to have you on board.
Delete1. At one point, I was involved in a Men's Bible study with a wonderful Christian leader, Paul Johnson, and we had this Group on Monday Nights for a bit over 8 years in a row, with NO Breaks whatsoever. Paul taught me that taking a 3 week break here and summer break here and a couple of more weeks here was "Dangerous" to men who are on fire for God, so we NEVER CANCELLED Group, only on Christmas or New Years or if a major holiday fell on a Monday. I think we only cancelled Once or twice during a winter Storm. This taught me to "Commit" to a long term Study of God's word, and I am so glad that I did. I may have missed like 3 or 4 Mondays in those 8 years, but was very consistent. God used that homegroup Powerfully to produce many Pastors, and leaders, missionaries, etc... and had a tremendous amount of godly fruit! That is what I love about this M3 Group, we don't Stop for weeks at a time to relax, we persevere like Men on a Mission. I know that God will raise a forest of fruitful men that will be unstoppable and absolutely affect the next generation, if we DON"T Stop!!
ReplyDelete2. share about a time when you didn't blog and what you learned from that. This will help newcomers to learn from you how to be unstoppable: --For over 4 months, I had been faithful blogging everyday and then I missed 6 days in a row, when I found myself using Lame excuses during this week--, like my assistant at work got married and is on his honeymoon, thus I am working overtime at work, my pre-marital counseling homework for that week took 12 hours of study time, my men's Tuesday night bible study took another 6 hours of study time, and then that week, I studied for my Managing Brokers State of IL. exam (which I passed- thank God :) As I look back, I felt like I let my brothers down, and used excuses to NOT blog for that week.
God's vision for us Men is stated in Romans 8:29, "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, Christ Jesus". I believe that God the Father is teaching us hardship and perseverance and using trials in our life to build up and test our faith, to ultimately make it stronger. I believe the Father is purposely getting us in a position where we "Need to cry out to Him for help and guidance" because we cannot do it by ourselves. That does NOT happen when our lives are so happy, easy, and comfortable, but will happen when our trials hurt so bad, that we cry out "Abba Father" we need you in our lives molding and shaping us into the image of Your Son. Help us Lord! When that point happens, I believe the Father looks at us and says, "that is where I want you, to be totally Dependent on Me!". When we have purity in our hearts and a heart and life totally dependent on God, I believe that God will help us to walk powerfully in the Power of the Holy Spirit. I was reading Luke 4:1-14 on the temptation of Jesus in the desert by Satan. After Jesus' 40 days of overcoming temptation with the Word of God, verse 14, says, "And Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about Him spread through all the surrounding district." God is doing something wonderful in M3, so let us walk and live our lives dependent on the Father, using the Word of God, so that we too can walk in the power of the Spirit :)
3. did it
Brother Israel, I'm glad you persevered through that busy and difficult season of life. You're blessed, for the Lord rewards those who diligently seek him.
DeleteThank you Israel! Your words are very inspiring and so is your life. God is going to use you to multiply many manly men!
ReplyDelete1.- Growing up I always loved playing sports, I was not with gifted attributes, small and scrawny, yet I excelled at football in the neighborhood games. When I started playing in the Chicago park district leagues the competition was bigger, stronger and better, it was very physical and harder, long practice's lots of players would drop out who I thought were better because they were so big and muscled. I was a little scrawny kid who never gave up because I love playing football. My coach was a semi-pro player, he was big and tough on us, taught us how to play mentally and physically strong games. I learned how to play at this higher level with the limited size I was and started to get better, I became a defensive terror on the football field and put some hurting on some of my opponents. When I went on to high school, I tried out for the football team only to be cut immediately due to my scrawny size. I wasn't even given a chance to prove myself. A friend of mind Rodney, huge 6-3 all muscle who I played with in the park district league new the high school coach and told him that he should give me a chance and not base my ability on my small size. Was given another chance and went on to play high school football for 3 year, started on defense and was a co-captain of team. I refused to let my size keep me from playing the game I most enjoyed. 2.- I must admit brothers I have been intimidated and have had reservation about being able to express myself in written words. Never been the kind of person to write letters or notes, not very studious. Very thankful to be in the company with my brothers of M3. I have been able to do all my blogging through my cell phone. It's been challenging, many times I also have lose everything while publishing, discouraging at times, still I have not let this hinder my blogging, similar to not letting my size stoping me from playing football. Don't fail me now, hope it goes through publish.
ReplyDeleteBrother Armando, you display tenacity and determination. No surrender, no retreat!!!!!! Semper Fi :-)
DeleteSo glad your writing did publish Armando, for this was an excellent story you shared. And I'm so glad you are unstoppable with us.God is going to use you to help many men grow and go forward as you continue to follow Him.
ReplyDelete1. During my first two weeks of starting college (a few years ago), I ran into some trouble with a certain class. I was so distraught because I had received two bad grades for my first two quizzes in that class (I had always struggled with perfectionism, fearing failure). I then started to want to quit my classes because I felt that I was not cut out for them; however, my parents encouraged me to continue with them despite my fears. As a result, I tried my best and passed the class with an A in the end.
ReplyDelete2. Faithfully blogging everyday for the group was very difficult for me during the time I have been a part of M3. It was difficult since I was very busy with school and other commitments. In addition, I was having a total of around 20-25 hours of sleep a week, so I was extremely tired. However, I kept myself from giving up because I reminded myself that I made a commitment to M3. As a result, I did not want to break my word (because that would not bring honor to Jesus). I was then able to blog without missing a single day.
Wow Alex! I had no idea that you were running on such little sleep. I love that what kept you faithful was that you made a commitment, and to break that would not bring honor to Jesus. How manly!
DeleteBrother Alex, you're a man of your word! How refreshing in today's day and age :-) "All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’;" Matthew 5:37a
Delete1
ReplyDeleteThe first thing that comes to my mind while pushing through was taking classes at night school. The pace was accelerated so a term paper was assigned on a weekly basis. I often stayed up overnight to finish while still having work and bible studies on my plate. After that overnighter was completed is was about time to get to work and there were days or pairs of days where i did not sleep.
2
The times that were difficulties in blogging were times coming home from small groups and I would be very exhausted from a long day. However this would convict me that I was failing my brother and the men that are not in M3 as the target in multiplying manly men os setting captives free.
3
Did it
Wrote verse 4
Brother Gary, lack of sleep can definitely take a toll on you. I'm glad saw you through it all. "The will of God will not take you where the grace of God cannot keep you." (Charles Stanley?)
Delete"Ouch!" is what I said out loud reading about how you went a couple days in a row without sleep. That's determination to get the job done. That is so manly! Applying that same determination to God and His word makes you unstoppable. Way to go and grow Gary!
ReplyDelete1.-It is always hard for me to blog because I and like everyone else gets tired at the of the day. I commute to work and back for two and half hours per day. by the time I get home, I just want to relax and sometimes find it really hard to blog. But I blog because I know I need the word of God, and only through God I can do all things that give me strength.
ReplyDelete2.-What really helps me to stay faithful and blog every day is the daily encouragement I have received from the other men in our group. They have encouragement to continue and have supported me all the way through. Our ultimate goal is to be with Jesus and to continue to learn from him. I pray I may to continue to learn more and more from Jesus, who is my Lord and Savior.
3.-Proverbs 6:20-21, My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck.
So glad to see you went back and made up Mon and Th. Oscar! You are becoming unstoppable!
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