Iron Sharpens Iron

Welcome to Men of the Sword, a blog/email stream challenging men to be devoted to God’s Word and put their faith into practice by being spiritual leaders in their homes and in the church. In our culture, the role of men and fathers is often minimized and portrayed in a sickly fashion. God Forbid! God’s Word has a very different expectation of men. In 1 Cor 16:13-14, we read “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” ACT LIKE MEN! We are to stand up and be responsible for the task God has given us. We should be on guard as Satan wants to destroy men. We are to know and stand firm in God’s Word. Our calling is to be strong and show love.

On the shelf in my sons’ room is a sign that says, “The only thing God can use to make a man is a little boy.” I think about that when I see immature, boyish actions from them that need to be corrected for them to be men. (Yes, they are still little!) I am also convicted however, that when I drop the ball of the role God has given me, it is because I am choosing to be a little boy instead of a man. Ouch! We can grow in these areas by standing together. Our goal is that as we share scripture together and share practical encouragements, we would be equipping each other to be men. About once a week, different leaders will post/email thoughts or resources to the group that will encourage us in this process. Topics will include our own walk with God, becoming godly husbands, being godly fathers, leading well, and our role with people around us.

If you prefer to follow via blog (Pastor Andrew hooked me on Google Reader!!!), our blog site is www.villagebible.com/menofthesword. The name comes from Eph 6:17 where we read, “and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”. Let’s take up the sword, the Word of God, and keep it sharp and ready to be used in everyday, practical life. I will be praying for each of you men who have signed up for this challenge.

May we stand up and be counted. May we be students of God’s Word. May we be devoted to His work. May we learn to truly love our wives. May we be incredible images of God the Father as we father our children. May we be men of the sword!

Pastor Ron

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Here is a great music video from Sanctus Real that challenges us to think about how we lead our families! Lead Me

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.