Part 1 of 4 – The Man of God Series
Biblical masculinity finds its strength in Christ and its integrity in obedience to the Word of God. Healthy, biblical masculinity is vital to the success of a society. When men encourage and protect others, women, and children have a chance to thrive. May God raise up men to bless the world.
Lessons From David’s Early Journey
David Was Anointed To Be A King. God asked Samuel to identify the next King of Israel, but not to make the decision based upon appearance, but rather by what was in the heart. David’s older brother Eliab had the appearance of a king and appeared to be a better fit, but God saw something in David that exceeded Eliab’s appearance. This life and masculinity, in particular, will NEVER be about a “look”. It is always about your IDENTITY!
1 Samuel 16:6-7 (NLT) When they arrived, Samuel took one look at Eliab and thought, “Surely this is the Lord’s anointed!” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
David Was Slandered For His HOPE. Years later the Israelites were at war with the Philistines. The Philistines had a powerful warrior on their side, named Goliath. While the Israelites remained hopeless, David still held on to hope. Those around David made him feel foolish for keeping hope and faith that God would come through. David had the heart of a warrior and the powerful spirit of the Lord and he ultimately slew the giant. Just like David, if you will influence anyone, it is hope that will do it. He who has the most hope has the most influence. Be the man who can see others as God sees them, with purpose, hope, and love.
1 Samuel 18:6-7 (NLT) When the victorious Israelite army was returning home after David had killed the Philistine, women from all the towns of Israel came out to meet King Saul. They sang and danced for joy with tambourines and cymbals. 7 This was their song: “Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands!”
David Was Defined By His Victory. David went on to win many battles, not just the one against Goliath and not just those on the battlefield. He reigned for 40 years in one of the most prosperous periods in Israel’s history. Like David, a man of God is here to win battles, to overcome and to succeed. This is what the cowboy stage is meant to teach us. There is always a way to win. There is always a way to snatch victory from any battle.
Joshua 1:9 (NLT) This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
The Cowboy Must Rule Himself
Becoming A Man Is NOT Inevitable. Boys do not slowly become men just by marking time on a calendar. Manhood is a journey. No boy will coast into manhood without discipline and vision. Becoming a man also involves developing skills, gaining an education and experiencing pain and hardship. Suffice it to say, we must take what life gives us and use it to become a man. We must develop character, gain understanding and wisdom, and most of all pursue Christ! Go after God with everything you’ve got.
Proverbs 4:26-27 (NLT) Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. 27 Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.
Prepare For Manhood. You are called to prepare for manhood. Life will present many challenges, but God did not put you on Earth to make people happy. He expects you to be a good man, rather than a nice man. It was not a NICE man who killed Goliath. It was a GOOD Man. You cannot do it alone, you need to maintain a strong relationship with Christ and other followers. You’ll never fly with the eagles if you hang with the turkeys.
Proverbs 5:7-9 (NLT) So now, my sons, listen to me. Never stray from what I am about to say: 8 Stay away from her! Don’t go near the door of her house! 9 If you do, you will lose your honor and will lose to merciless people all you have achieved.
Self-control Is Vital. David’s biggest downfall was an issue of self-control. After he had asserted himself as a Godly man and successful King, David let his guard down and gave into temptation. He saw the beautiful Bathsheba (married to Uriah), and despite being married to Michal, he began an affair. Both he and Bathsheba suffered for their transgressions for years to come. Many temptations present themselves in this mortal life, be it social media, pornography, drugs, alcohol or gambling. A man must resist these temptations and remain focused on God.
Proverbs 24:10-11 (NLT) If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small. 11 Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; save them as they stagger to their death.
Manhood Is About Victory. The man who has the most hope has the most influence. Learn to see what others cannot. Learn to believe what others will not. Victory does not come from mere “participation”, but rather from the diligent and intentional pursuit of the Lord.
1 John 5:4 (NLT) For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith.
Conclusion:
My hope is that men will stand up and bless the world. Are we Good men? Are we God’s Men? Accept the responsibility of manhood. Be a man of action; be courageous. Be the man who will teach and lead the next generation of men!
Talk About It…
- What are your first thoughts regarding today’s topic? Please share with the group.
- Discuss the phrase, “A real man”. What does that mean? What is a “real” man?
- What is “healthy” masculinity and how might it be a benefit to our society?
- Discuss 1 Samuel 16:6-7. Where does God place the priority of a person’s character? Why?
- Discuss David and Eliab’s exchange (1 Samuel 17:28-29). How could we bring hope when others are afraid?
- How did David’s smaller victories prepare him for his battle with Goliath?
- What might we do as mothers, fathers, grandparents, or friends to help young men become men? Is there anything intimidating in the rearing of boys to men?
- What attitudes and skills would prepare a young man for real victory?
- Is there anything in today’s topic that you would be excited to share with a friend?
- How did David’s smaller victories prepare him for his battle with Goliath
- What might we do as mothers, fathers, grandparents, or friends to help young men become men? Is there anything intimidating in the rearing of boys to men?
- What attitudes and skills would prepare a young man for real victory?
- Is there anything in today’s topic that you would be excited to share with a friend?