A Daily Word for Men E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021

Seitenzahl: 384

Beschreibung

Our daily routines sometimes condition us into comfortable living. We settle for repeated rhythms and expect our lives to change. Day after day, month after month, year after year, we find happiness in things that satisfy only our immediate needs and desires. Our hearts long for more, but we settle for less. Time spent in God's presence empowers you to be a man of character, strength, and integrity. This devotional book presents a motivating word for you to reflect on each day. Allow this daily word to inspire you as you prayerfully consider the Scripture, devotion, and thought-provoking question built around it. Let Jesus disrupt your daily pattern of living and give you eyes to see the alternative life he offers. A life that satisfies beyond your temporary needs and desires. A life that brings light to your work and play. A life that spills over into the people around you. A life that generates more life.   Features: • High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. • Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. • Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. • This high-quality sturdy Smythe-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. • This matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. • A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.  

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing

Savage, Minnesota, USA

A DAILY WORD FOR MEN

© 2021 by BroadStreet Publishing®

978-1-4245-6374-6 (faux)

978-1-4245-6375-3 (e-book)

Devotional entries composed by Jared Winger.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1972, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Lockman.org. Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the esv® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIrV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Reader’s Version®, NIrV® Copyright © 1995, 1996, 1998, 2014 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIrV” and “New International Reader’s Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved.

Design by Chris Garborg | garborgdesign.com

Editorial services by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com

Printed in China.

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Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: Purposeful

January 2: Decisive

January 3: Composed

January 4: Brave

January 5: Abiding

January 6: Appropriate

January 7: Assured

January 8: Character

January 9: Captivating

January 10: Authoritative

January 11: Empathetic

January 12: Empowered

January 13: Doubtless

January 14: Dependable

January 15: Content

January 16: Generous

January 17: Grace

January 18: Informed

January 19: Legacy

January 20: Leader

January 21: Thoughtful

January 22: Healthy

January 23: Pleasant

January 24: Motivated

January 25: Mindful

January 26: Principled

January 27: Positive

January 28: Maturity

January 29: Patient

January 30: Meaningful

January 31: Mentor

February

February 1: Honest

February 2: Incredible

February 3: Jubilant

February 4: Known

February 5: Forthright

February 6: Exciting

February 7: Enduring

February 8: Deliberate

February 9: Edifying

February 10: Focused

February 11: Reward

February 12: Respite

February 13: Significance

February 14: Love

February 15: Reliable

February 16: Sober

February 17: Tactful

February 18: Splendid

February 19: Trustworthy

February 20: Unafraid

February 21: Steadfast

February 22: Sufficient

February 23: Unique

February 24: Sustenance

February 25: Helpful

February 26: Studious

February 27: Self-control

February 28: Reflective

March

March 1: Polite

March 2: Potential

March 3: Purity

March 4: Responsive

March 5: Quiet

March 6: Heir

March 7: Humble

March 8: Inclined

March 9: Knowledgeable

March 10: Inspiration

March 11: Needed

March 12: Merit

March 13: Permanent

March 14: Mercy

March 15: Attentive

March 16: Beauty

March 17: Celebrated

March 18: Coherent

March 19: Changeless

March 20: Diligent

March 21: Delight

March 22: Renewed

March 23: Daring

March 24: Distinguished

March 25: Enraptured

March 26: Faith

March 27: Deliverance

March 28: Awesome

March 29: Authentic

March 30: Capable

March 31: Bountiful

April

April 1: Aware

April 2: Belief

April 3: Adopted

April 4: Abundant

April 5: Amiable

April 6: Complete

April 7: Dignified

April 8: Effective

April 9: Credited

April 10: Convinced

April 11: Rational

April 12: Proficient

April 13: Receptive

April 14: Servant

April 15: Saved

April 16: Satisfied

April 17: Redemption

April 18: Vitality

April 19: Trust

April 20: Unshakable

April 21: Wholesome

April 22: Unashamed

April 23: Teachable

April 24: Prayerful

April 25: Reconciliation

April 26: Promises

April 27: Modesty

April 28: Intimacy

April 29: Honor

April 30: Heritage

May

May 1: Friendly

May 2: Adoration

May 3: Appreciated

May 4: Bold

May 5: Community

May 6: Brilliant

May 7: Benevolent

May 8: Ability

May 9: Rest

May 10: Decorum

May 11: Consistent

May 12: Decent

May 13: Energetic

May 14: Determined

May 15: Equipped

May 16: Fearless

May 17: Graceful

May 18: Hope

May 19: Identity

May 20: Kindness

May 21: Important

May 22: Life

May 23: Influence

May 24: Honorable

May 25: Lovable

May 26: Intelligent

May 27: Observant

May 28: Peaceful

May 29: Obliging

May 30: Recognized

May 31: Nourishing

June

June 1: Powerful

June 2: Qualified

June 3: Ready

June 4: Respectable

June 5: Constant

June 6: Secure

June 7: Sensitive

June 8: Rich

June 9: Transforming

June 10: Sympathetic

June 11: Tenacious

June 12: Treasured

June 13: Upright

June 14: Validated

June 15: Uninhibited

June 16: Tremendous

June 17: Watchful

June 18: Understood

June 19: Optimistic

June 20: Passionate

June 21: Pleasing

June 22: Prudent

June 23: Refreshment

June 24: Relevant

June 25: Friendship

June 26: Glorious

June 27: Fervent

June 28: Independent

June 29: Judicious

June 30: Lasting

July

July 1: Justified

July 2: Faithful

July 3: Eternal

July 4: Freedom

July 5: Grit

July 6: Exuberant

July 7: Moving

July 8: Perseverance

July 9: Resolute

July 10: Persuasive

July 11: Noble

July 12: Proper

July 13: Stamina

July 14: Supportive

July 15: Royalty

July 16: Vibrant

July 17: Warm

July 18: Whole

July 19: Valor

July 20: Wisdom

July 21: Zealous

July 22: Unity

July 23: Valued

July 24: Strong

July 25: Creative

July 26: Courteous

July 27: Affection

July 28: Careful

July 29: Compelling

July 30: Discerning

July 31: Cooperative

August

August 1: Enlightened

August 2: Flexible

August 3: Poised

August 4: Favored

August 5: Happiness

August 6: Inheritance

August 7: Loyal

August 8: Open

August 9: Protected

August 10: Radiant

August 11: Genuine

August 12: Restored

August 13: Shrewd

August 14: Spontaneous

August 15: Tranquil

August 16: Unquestionable

August 17: Vigilant

August 18: Talented

August 19: Understanding

August 20: Efficient

August 21: Accepted

August 22: Adaptable

August 23: Caring

August 24: Comfort

August 25: Disciplined

August 26: Discreet

August 27: Excellence

August 28: Responsible

August 29: Exceptional

August 30: Guidance

August 31: Serenity

September

September 1: Provision

September 2: Relaxation

September 3: Purpose

September 4: Reasonable

September 5: Hardworking

September 6: Virtue

September 7: Worth

September 8: Stunning

September 9: Reputable

September 10: Miraculous

September 11: Resilient

September 12: Sincere

September 13: Elegant

September 14: Driven

September 15: Ethical

September 16: Conscientious

September 17: Blessed

September 18: Certain

September 19: Cherished

September 20: Accountability

September 21: Assertive

September 22: Cognizant

September 23: Alive

September 24: Comfortable

September 25: Acknowledged

September 26: Confirmed

September 27: Competent

September 28: Encouraged

September 29: Active

September 30: Cheerful

October

October 1: Enriched

October 2: Forgiveness

October 3: Goodness

October 4: Innocent

October 5: Insightful

October 6: Approval

October 7: Justice

October 8: Persistent

October 9: Engaging

October 10: Comprehensive

October 11: Approachable

October 12: Committed

October 13: Enthusiasm

October 14: Admiration

October 15: Considerate

October 16: Established

October 17: Praise

October 18: Refined

October 19: Sanctified

October 20: Skilled

October 21: Vital

October 22: Welcomed

October 23: Witness

October 24: Affirmed

October 25: Astute

October 26: Conducted

October 27: Conformable

October 28: Devotion

October 29: Enough

October 30: Firm

October 31: Integrity

November

November 1: Joy

November 2: Moral

November 3: Pardoned

November 4: Prepared

November 5: Relief

November 6: Revered

November 7: Sensible

November 8: Sheltered

November 9: Tender

November 10: Unselfish

November 11: Valiant

November 12: Wanted

November 13: Regarded

November 14: Sure

November 15: Alert

November 16: Confident

November 17: Earnest

November 18: Covered

November 19: Esteemed

November 20: Willpower

November 21: Gentle

November 22: Gratitude

November 23: Intuitive

November 24: Thankful

November 25: Necessary

November 26: Perceptive

November 27: Fortitude

November 28: Victorious

November 29: Truthful

November 30: Successful

December

December 1: Still

December 2: Resplendent

December 3: Preferred

December 4: Courage

December 5: Charitable

December 6: Agreeable

December 7: Awe-inspiring

December 8: Safety

December 9: Compassionate

December 10: Support

December 11: Exemplary

December 12: Triumphant

December 13: Vulnerable

December 14: Unwavering

December 15: Connected

December 16: Received

December 17: Amazed

December 18: Gifted

December 19: Righteous

December 20: Sovereign

December 21: Stable

December 22: Ambitious

December 23: Calm

December 24: Meek

December 25: Wonderful

December 26: Breathtaking

December 27: Chosen

December 28: Exalted

December 29: Fascinating

December 30: Respect

December 31: Consecrated

The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.

PSALM 119:130 NIV

Introduction

Our daily routines sometimes condition us into comfortable living. We settle for repeated rhythms and expect our lives to change. Day after day, month after month, year after year, we find happiness in things that satisfy only our immediate needs and desires. Our hearts long for more, but we settle for less.

Time spent in God’s presence empowers you to be a man of character, strength, and integrity. This devotional book presents a motivating word for you to reflect on each day. Allow this daily word to inspire you as you prayerfully consider the Scripture, devotion, and thought-provoking question built around it.

Let Jesus disrupt your daily pattern of living and give you eyes to see the alternative life he offers. A life that satisfies beyond your temporary needs and desires. A life that brings light to your work and play. A life that spills over into the people around you. A life that generates more life.

January

God is our refuge and strength, Always ready to help in times of trouble.

PSALM 46:1 NLT

 

JANUARY 1

Purposeful

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.

EPHESIANS 1:11-12 NIV

Jesus resolved to save us and completed his task when he suffered, was killed, buried, and finally resurrected. He did not relent in pursuing his goal. As a child, he sought out his Father in the temple. As a man, he purposefully suffered to the point of death. Now, as the resurrected Savior, he continues in prayer for us. When he finally returns as the warrior king, he will complete his goal by restoring creation to the godhead. When you see a man committed to his goal like Jesus was (and still is), it is worthy of admiration.

As we think about this year and what we choose to do purposefully, like Jesus, let us also be fervent in what we set our hearts toward. When we set our heart on a path, may it be according to the plan of him who works to conform us to Christ for his praise and glory. As we read in the Scripture above, he is working with us and on us for the purpose of his will. Be encouraged that he is planning on speaking to you about this year and wants your invitation.

How can you allow God time to speak into your purposeful planning for this new year?

 

JANUARY 2

Decisive

“If you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.”

JOSHUA 24:15 NLT

There is something inspirational about a decisive person; they proactively and confidently make decisions, taking ownership of their domain. Who would not like to be this way? The impetuous are foolish, making rash responses and reacting, but those who are decisive are admired. This is not a matter of semantics, but rather about the weighing of a situation and employing active wisdom. The impulsive man does not think before he acts. The decisive man considers his way and takes action.

Often our decisiveness is paralyzed by fear of failure. We allow our minds to compare with others, to worry about what has not occurred, and to dread the ridicule of a wrong decision. These fears and doubts are relieved when we surrender our decisions to Christ and recognize that our hope lays in him and his final word over us. Ultimately, when we serve the Lord, our choices are committed to him. Our only failure then is our lack of trust in him. Through the wise counsel of others, his Holy Spirit in us, and our God-given mind, we are to take ownership of our domain and act decisively.

What have you been weighing and waiting on that is ready for you to take action today?

 

JANUARY 3

Composed

An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, not overindulging in wine, not a bully, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money.

1 TIMOTHY 3:2-3 NASB

Wow, what a man this is! He is so collected and put together. No one can say a bad word about him, he controls himself, is wise, and well honored by others. He opens his wallet willingly, and forgives those who harm him, and he looks to help others live in peace. He has no vices but is filled with the Spirit of Christ.

If our friends could be like this man, what would that do for us? We would feel secure in our friendship with them for sure. We would be inspired, and we would enjoy being with them. Our key in this is not to focus on being free from the love of money, or wine, or to employ these attributes, or to make our friends like this. Our takeaway is to pursue more of the Holy Spirit in our lives. For this fruit, the fruit of a composed man, come from him.

What sort of friend would you be if you were filled with more of the Holy Spirit?

 

JANUARY 4

Brave

“Here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Don’t give up; don’t be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord. Be brave and courageous, and never lose hope. Yes, keep on waiting—for he will never disappoint you!”

PSALM 27:14 TPT

Growing up on a remote island had its charms and its difficulties. But to this young boy, it was full of adventure and delight. A few challenges still remained. His first was overcoming the elder brother, who taunted him with devious plans of misadventure: late night walks with animal skulls hidden in the bushes, spooky moments in shady woods, being chased by animals across farmland, and shocking experiences with electric fences. But nothing was more challenging than going out into the ocean where sharks slashed at moving objects, eels lurked eerily in dark depths, and stingrays swarmed the surf. His bravery was learned, not in one moment, but over time.

His father, whom he trusted, patiently led him step by step to surf, snorkel, fish, sail, and eventually enjoy the ocean. His memory of these experiences enabled him to realize the depth of fear he had learned to overcome, and how he had learned it—through trust, patience, and firm action. Over time, his courage empowered him to embrace and even enjoy the adrenaline of facing a new adversary wherever he went.

How have you grown in your bravery?

 

JANUARY 5

Abiding

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”

JOHN 15:4 NKJV

Jesus was relevant in his teaching. He spoke with shepherds about sheep, wine growers about vineyards, and rulers about authority. What would he say to you to make his message relevant?

This Scripture had a dual purpose: encouraging us remain connected to him, and to comply to what he asks. Abiding is not just about being coupled to him, but also to act in obedience to him. So, Jesus encourages us to remain in him and in hearing his words, abide by them. In today’s world, all measure of truth is subject to the individual, and our relativistic society disregards the concept of objective truth. This means as followers of Christ we bear a burden to remain allied with him and to adhere to the truth that he states. If we want to bear fruit, we must do more than just stay with him; we must also produce what he asks.

In sitting and being with Jesus, what do you hear him asking of you?

 

JANUARY 6

Appropriate

Everyone enjoys giving great advice. But how delightful it is to say the right thing at the right time!

PROVERBS 15:23 TPT

It is said that good timing is everything. If you play sports, you know timing is critical to making a play. Whether passing the ball to a receiver, or swinging the bat at a pitch, the appropriate timing results in a positive play. Delaying in a race puts you in a tough spot to win. If you play an instrument and your timing is off, the performance is disrupted. Being late to class or to work is not fitting and can result in punitive action. Similarly, our words must also be appropriate. Situationally, it is not good to make a joke at a funeral or share your deep emotions at someone’s birthday celebration. But the right word at the right time is like a cool drink on a hot day.

We know what is appropriate by what we have learned. Society most often dictates what is and is not appropriate. However, for those who follow Christ, his Word and the Holy Spirit are our adjudicators. Scripture says that in the last days what is evil will be called good and what is good will be called evil. We must establish then what is appropriate through our relationship with God.

How have you established God’s Word as your guide to what is appropriate?

 

JANUARY 7

Assured

Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

HEBREWS 11:1 ESV

Growing up, we had a dream of making something of ourselves. Back in the day it used to be a policeman or fireman: the roles of the hero. Did we have a conviction about it? Was it really tested? Likely not. We could be convinced of becoming a doctor to save lives, or perhaps a pilot or an astronaut. Even a heavy machinery operator was a solid replacement. But our assurance that we were going to do these things was not based on anything more than a temporary infatuation with few of us making it a reality.

Assurance of faith is not based on infatuation. It is based on the confidence and conviction that Jesus is who he says he is. Jesus offers this security because he demonstrated it in his role as the only true hero. He paid the ultimate cost to save all our lives, and this assures us of our salvation and resurrection. Few were actually witnesses of Christ and what he went through, but many of us believe in what he did. This is what assurance of faith does in us: actively producing confidence in Christ.

What are the dreams you have for your future, and how is Christ incorporated?

 

JANUARY 8

Character

This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.

REVELATION 14:12 NIV

To become a man of character is a noble quest. It takes sacrifice, determination, and patient practice. It is made up of many traits such as trustworthiness, caring, responsibility, and respect. Character is formed over time; it is not purchased, taken, or coerced into our person. It is fashioned through difficulty, much like diamonds are created through pressure and pearls grow with irritation. Our character develops as we allow trouble to work patiently at our broken, immature selves.

We do not have to look far to find trials in life. We are bombarded with ethical issues, relational disruptions, and personal temptations. The first step in allowing character to form is to face our troubles. However, the examples set in our society are lacking. We are now the most in debt, medicated, addicted, and overweight population in history. This is not a society learning character by standing ground, but rather running deeper into immaturity. As believers in Christ, we have an opportunity to demonstrate the fortitude that Christ established because we have been empowered by his victory over sin and through the Holy Spirit. We are no longer slaves to sin, and though we may face trial by fire, we have a hope within us that helps form our character.

What aspects of character has Christ been establishing in you?

 

JANUARY 9

Captivating

One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.

PSALM 27:4 NIV

When the word captivation comes to mind, what do you see? Visions of a wonderful woman, a spectacular sunset, mysterious mountains, a fantastic film, beautiful beaches, or perhaps melodic music? God placed within us a desire to be captivated. We are a people filled with hunger for pleasurable experiences. This was not a mistake by God, nor is it evil. His intention for us is that we are intrigued by him, and in finding him we experience true joy and delight. When we connect with his Holy Spirit, there is nothing more captivating. We may not allow ourselves enough time, but if we do, we will find that the creator of desire is the best at fulfilling the craving.

God provided ample ability in us to create our own expressions of his beauty. The problem of man is that we have taken this, with encouragement from Satan and our own lusts, and replaced his pleasure with our creations. We need to get back to a place where we can be captivated by Jesus. We need to sit at his feet and allow his Spirit to fill us afresh.

Can you practice again the peaceful pleasure found by waiting in God’s presence?

 

JANUARY 10

Authoritative

That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.

EPHESIANS 19:21 NIV

Not to be confused with authoritarian, authoritative is positive in its meaning: able to be trusted, confident, commanding. This is the person who knows what they are talking about and is reliable in what they say. It is like the captain who sailed for forty years talking to a new ship hand about the dangers of the ocean, the rookie quarterback listening to the GOAT share about what he wished he knew when he started. It is about a man who has owned multiple companies sharing with new businessmen the importance of having vision and purposeful planning. The finest example of being authoritative is seen in Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate authority: knowing all things and being able to do all things.

In each of us there is a measure of confidence in an area that we are comfortable. Often we don’t even realize it until we start sharing with someone younger. Some of us may have difficulty bringing positive attributes to mind as we focus on our negative traits. But God highlights our command of an area as we allow ourselves opportunities to mentor others.

What are you reliable and confident in doing?

 

JANUARY 11

Empathetic

“Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means, ‘God is with us.’”

MATTHEW 1:23 NRSV

As men we have trouble naming our emotions. We may have four we easily identify: frustration, happiness, sadness, and anger. But there are a great deal more. Did you know that every willful action taken by humans has emotion behind it? We cannot avoid being emotional beings simply because of the way our brain is structured. That is the beauty of how God created us and how we connect with him and others. As relational beings, emotion is primary to our existence and function.

The concept behind empathy is that a person is able to be emotionally “in” with another person and what they are experiencing. The best way is just to be with someone, without trying to fix, advise, or answer them. Jesus demonstrated empathy by coming to us. He left his Father’s side and entered a sinful world. He was emotionally “in” our trouble, and he fully experienced our world. According to Hebrews, Jesus was able to sympathize with our weakness in every way except that he did not succumb to iniquity. He knew the risk of entering what we experience, and what it took to pull us out of it, and it cost him his life. There is reasonable caution about going too far in empathizing with someone’s trouble such that you become part of it yourself. However, like Christ, we can join someone in their pain by being with them but not identifying with them.

What can you do better to empathize with those you love?

 

JANUARY 12

Empowered

All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:11 NIV

Being given the captaincy of a sports team is an honor. Sometimes coaches pick the least expected player for such roles, and when they do, teammates may wonder why. What is it about that player that made him good enough to be captain? Empowering someone is not always about recognizing the leadership already evident; rather, it is about seeing in a player attributes that could make them into a great leader. After all, leaders are made not born.

A good coach can see what a team needs and equip people on the team who are capable of creating it. Often teams have more than one captain: some who lead because of their attributes, and some who are empowered to lead because a coach sees future abilities and wants to encourage them. Jesus is even more knowledgeable about what we need and how to empower us. He sees great potential in each of us and doesn’t shame us into action. He calls us into it by empowering us with the Holy Spirit.

What example are you setting that demonstrates God’s empowerment in your life?

 

JANUARY 13

Doubtless

“Thomas, now that you’ve seen me, you believe. But there are those who have never seen me with their eyes but have believed in me with their hearts, and they will be blessed even more!”

JOHN 20:29 TPT

In Bible trivia, we likely think of Thomas when we see the word doubt. But who is doubtless among us? Thankfully, in Christianity we are taught to think for ourselves, to regard something, to question a teaching and measure it according to God’s Word. Jesus didn’t treat Thomas differently, although he did remark that it is blessed to believe without seeing and this is what all of us do today. Though in many of our minds there can be doubt at times, we still hold onto the hope of Christ’s resurrection and the assurance of faith in him.

If we were truly doubtless, what would be the need for faith? We cannot have faith without doubt. Thus, we understand that none of us is doubtless. This is the beauty and the mystery of faith in Christ. It should inspire us to keep searching him out, to go deeper in relationship with him, and not rest on our last understanding of God. Certainty creates security which can breed a sense of superiority, judgment, and criticism. Let us do away with these. We will have certainty when we are resurrected in Christ and only then. This is what we have faith and hope for.

How do you remain faithful or full of faith when doubt is present?

 

JANUARY 14

Dependable

A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.

PROVERBS 17:17 NLT

We all have one. That person who is there when we need help, when we want to hang out, or when we want to go do something. Even those with few friends have that one reliable person. For some, it just might be our dog; man’s best friend is incredibly dependable. When you go away, no matter for how long, the happiest and most excited one to see you is Boomer. Boomer doesn’t let up when you get home; he smells all the new smells, catching up on all the places you went. He wants the whole story, and he follows you around the house until you are seated and relaxed. Then he plants himself at your feet, content that you are present. If you are happy, he’s happy; if you are upset, he comforts you. If you are angry at him and push him away, he comes back soon afterwards. No matter what, Boomer does not stop wanting to be with you. That is a dependable friend.

When we live for Christ and follow him, we have a steady friend in the Holy Spirit. He was sent to be our comforter and counselor; our truthful, loyal, come-back-to-us companion. Realistically, we come back to him in our repentance, as he never leaves nor forsakes us. Perhaps that is what dogs do too; they just wait for us to come around.

In what ways do you exemplify dependability to your friends and family?

 

JANUARY 15

Content

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

PHILIPPIANS 4:12 NIV

Paul writes that he has experienced both swings of the pendulum when it comes to the provision of basic needs. Whether he chose to or not, he practiced a lifestyle of fasting and thankfulness. In his experience, he learned what it meant to be satisfied by what he had in front of him at the time.

Learning contentment is done on three levels: spiritual, psychological, and physiological. We have to know that contentment truly starts when we recognize that God is our everything. Our spirit is awakened to our need and knows the provider for what we need. But starting with that premise and learning it are two different things! We need the Spirit of Christ to help us discipline our bodies and minds. The quickest way to do this is to attack both by practicing fasting. When we fast with a thankful heart, we learn what it means to be content.

How can you commit to practicing fasting and being thankful on a regular basis?

 

JANUARY 16

Generous

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.

PROVERBS 19:17 ESV

He was a man devoted to serving others. While living alongside his wife and children, his home was filled with strangers needing help. He was a businessman who traveled the countryside but also spent time sharing Christ. After years of seeing the same people returning to salvation, counseling the same addicts in his home, and watching them come and go, he decided something needed to be done.

Searching far and wide, he found an eight-hundred-acre farm on an island where he could start discipling those trapped in lifestyles of addiction. He relinquished his home, business, and some cash, and moved his family to the island where he began slowly bringing men and women to the community. It was hard work and sacrificial living, but it became a place of promise for those lost to the streets. People who were misplaced in the world received rest, healing, and restoration, and were eventually reestablished in society. The man asked for nothing in return for his work except to see that people loved God passionately and were free from the habits that inhibited them from following him. He passed away with no possessions, but he left a legendary legacy. His generosity will never be forgotten.

How can you expand your giving of both possessions and person to serve the purpose of God?

 

JANUARY 17

Grace

God continues to give us more grace. That’s why Scripture says, “God opposes those who are proud. But he gives grace to those who are humble.”

JAMES 4:6 ESV

God is gracious. Your father figure may not have been. Somehow, we twist these two together like a fishing line after a bad cast. It takes time to unravel our father figure and God. But God is gracious. He is kind. He loves unconditionally because he is love. His grace empowers us in our weakness, for that is what grace does: it allows weakness to exist so we can be strengthened by it.

Because of our fathers, or because of our own fears, we may not allow weakness to show in ourselves. This results in us becoming internally ungracious and manifests itself in a discourteous manner to those around us. Through humility of heart and recognition of our brokenness, we can embrace grace. Grace gives us the strength we need to change. Let us become men who demonstrate, from the inside out, the goodness of graciousness.

What can you do to start extending grace to yourself and others to allow for growth?

 

JANUARY 18

Informed

Do not keep talking so proudly or let your mouth speak such arrogance, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed.

1 SAMUEL 2:3 NIV

This word brings to mind an old war movie where people are hiding, and the informers are out there in force. They have the power, the information, that will impact both their lives and those who are hiding. Like in the Scripture above, they walk proudly, but they do not realize that God watches their deeds. They may have temporary power with their knowledge, but it is just that, temporary.

Knowledge is power. It enables one to inform the uninformed. With it you can be comfortably conversant and appear confident. But, because of its impersonal nature, this knowledge can lead to pride, so we must be careful. Paul writes that knowledge puffs up a man, but love builds up. He encourages us to be informed when it comes to the nature and person of Christ. He prays many times that we would know and understand who God is and be filled with the knowledge of Jesus Christ—a knowledge that is relational.

Is the knowledge you pride yourself on improving your relationships?

 

JANUARY 19

Legacy

We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD, about his power and his mighty wonders.

PSALM 78:4 NLT

There is a consistent theme in the Bible that gives us great hope; we have an inheritance as God’s people. Jesus didn’t only redeem us from sin and death; although, that is amazing in itself. We have even more to look forward to. Peter writes that this legacy is unfading, imperishable, stored in heaven, and waiting for those who believe. What is this inheritance? Why do we deserve more than he has already given?

This is the beauty of a legacy: those who are written in receive an inheritance. Is it different for each person? It appears that some slip into heaven, and others are rewarded accolades and a larger inheritance. This is similar to what we receive from an inheritance on earth, where all who are written in a will receive something, but some special items are saved for special relationships. There is a great reward for those who give their lives to Christ and his work first, before building their own legacy.

What special relationship are you forming with your Father who will be giving you part of his legacy?

 

JANUARY 20

Leader

Select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.

EXODUS 18:21 NLT

Growing up among fifteen other families meant that there were many children to play with. As in all societies, structure started to form, and out of that structure leaders emerged. One young boy began naturally stepping up and leading the other children. His influence was not isolated to his own attributes but was a part of the larger community; his father was also a leader. Whether by imitation or by gift, he naturally filled the role and started to inspire the group.

One fine day, the boy decided that the homes where they lived and played were not enough, and the group ventured out to find a new place. Deep in the woods, he instructed the others on creating new lodging. With input from the group, he delegated tasks and worked alongside his followers, encouraging them as their new village came to fruition. Each day after school (and snack), they would run off to their new habitat to clean, rebuild, and play, acting out little adult lives in their community of children. These experiences led the young boy in life, where he became a captain of his sports team in high school, a youth leader, a workplace manager, and eventually a pastor at a small church.

How have you seen leadership bestowed or earned, and in what ways does God call you to lead now?

 

JANUARY 21

Thoughtful

We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn’t live to please himself.

ROMANS 15:1-3 NLT

A thoughtful man is considerate of others, kind in word and action, and selfless. There are several men like this in our usual circles. They are not men that we necessarily consider we want to be like because they tend to be quiet and reflective. Men who are successful in business, who stand out in crowds, and who are generally more charismatic relate to others on a different level. They are typically strong, forceful, loud, and self-promoting.

There is a balance of these traits reflected in Christ. When needed, he was the crowd pleaser, doing miracles, lambasting the pharisees for their hypocrisy, and standing up for the poor and defenseless. But there was a caring, unselfish, quiet side to him also. He comforted his disciples, taught children, and was crucified without retaliation. He was truly the perfect man and the righteous Son of God. Though we may not be balanced enough to be like him, we can aim to do the things he did in the way he did them.

Thoughtfulness is a part of aging. At this stage of your life, what can you do to improve it?

 

JANUARY 22

Healthy

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

1 TIMOTHY 4:8 NIV

A man crush is a real thing. You could reframe it as admiration if you want. But when you see that guy with the well-toned body and think, It would be great to look like that, or the athlete who is fit and skilled in his position, I wish I could be like him…that’s kind of a man crush. It may be short lived, but it is still there. The question you have to ask yourself is if you want to put in the effort to be like him. And all of a sudden, the desire goes away, and it is likely replaced with respect. He is doing something you’ll likely never do. But to what end? If his training brings income into his home, then sure, keep up the focus buddy!

We should be healthy, exercising our bodies and eating well. All of us want to remain vigorous as long as we live on the earth. Our bodies are also the temple of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with value. When it comes to exercise and healthy eating, we want to do right by ourselves, but we also fight genetics, so a balance is necessary and less comparison to others is critical. Our health is to be focused on godliness first which does last into eternity. It does not mean we disregard all else, but we want to keep our focus on what matters most: our connection to God.

Discipline is important to both spirituality and bodily heath. What can you do to improve your discipline?

 

JANUARY 23

Pleasant

The LORD is all I need. He takes care of me. My share in life has been pleasant; my part has been beautiful.

PSALM 16:5-6 NCV

The young man excitedly jumped into the back of the truck loaded up with other surfers. He was looking forward to the day ahead. He and his friends joked and laughed as they traversed over the windy gravel roads. Cresting the hill, all of them fell silent. The surf break was just visible through the trees and the full view was about to be unleashed. Smiles were shared with the raising of eyebrows and an odd wink in anticipation. Rounding the bend, the truck skidded to a halt and an awed hush commenced. Perfect waves crested and peeled off along the break. The silence was shattered with shouts of joy and bangs on the truck to get the driver going. The vehicle gunned its engine, gravel peppered the brush behind, and they were away, soon to be enveloped in the ocean’s energy.

Hours later, exhausted from squeezing out every last ounce of vigor, the lads sat in silence as the sun set over the ocean. Bright colors splashed across the cirrus clouds, which drifted slowly by. His anticipation of the day fully met; the young man’s enjoyment was complete.

What is a recent experience that reminded you of how pleasant life in Christ can be?

 

JANUARY 24

Motivated

All the ways of a person are clean in his own sight, But the LORD examines the motives.

PROVERBS 16:2 NASB

Determining what motivates us can be like digging for gold. If you have ever watched gold miners at work, it takes some hard labor and experience. It’s usually a sacrifice, but it ends up with great rewards. If you know what motivates you, going after it will give you passion and joy—a reason to live.

One of the top motivators for men is to have a sense of accomplishment. If a goal is set and completed, there is a release of endorphins that bring pleasure. When days passively drift by, we can feel aimless and pointless. We have a purpose, and God very much wants us to be motivated to seek him. In finding him, we receive joy. He aligns this purpose of his with roles and tasks that we fulfil. He wants us to experience motivation for life!

What motivates you to get up each day and do the things you do?

 

JANUARY 25

Mindful

What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?

PSALM 8:4 NIV

Have you ever watched a parent talking with friends, so engaged until they suddenly realize they’ve lost track of their child? They snap out of the conversation, turn their head like it is on a swivel, and intently look around. Then when they see the child, great relief washes over their face. There are those parents who seem to have an alarm bell that goes off when they sense something is amiss with one of their children. It could be called an alert alarm. They are so present they just know things others don’t.

This is how God is. He is so mindful of us that he is conscious of our every moment. Imagine keeping track of that many little beings on planet earth, down to the very number of hairs on their head. For those losing hair that picture makes us think, How many hairs did he have to count down today? Ironically, it seems we lose our hair because of the few little ones we’re trying to look out for! What an amazing God we serve. He is cognizant of the tiny details of our daily lives.

Imagine the many people on earth and what it must take to care for them. What words come to mind when you think God is aware of you and your every need?

 

JANUARY 26

Principled

When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

1 PETER 2:23 NIV

If you have been to Italy, you may have observed amazing architecture that is generations old. There are many impressive pieces to view, centuries of buried architecture brought to life through careful excavation. But some stand out more than others, literally. Pieces like Trajan’s Column stands alone at nearly a hundred feet high after years of battles, storms, and earthquakes.