One of the primary keys to living well is to focus on finishing well.  Far too many men live for today, not really thinking or planning about the end of life.  

As men of God and people who are known by our faith and trust in a God who provides and meets all of our needs, we still need to take time to prepare for the last season of our lives. Looking back on my 40 years of ministry, with the last 15 having been in the area of Hospice care as a Chaplain, I have seen firsthand those who are prepared for the final season of their life and many who are inadequately prepared.

I want to share 4 observations to overcome the common obstacles we all face as we plan.

1. The first thing that I want to mention is that there are always going to be legal matters that need to be addressed. Do not think for one moment that everything in your estate will be handled in accordance with your wishes without taking some time to prepare legal documents that give direction and authority for those you trust most to carry out your wishes, whether at the end of your life or after your death. There are always things like tax implications and ownership issues that can be thwarted by laws that have changed through the years. I would suggest that an estate attorney can help provide guidance and direction to cover the things that God has placed in your stewardship through your life as you transfer them to others.  I have seen how parents who have planned their end of life well leave an additional blessing for their children, alleviating the uncertainties that come at the time of grief and loss.  Detail your intentions and provide directions because your planning in this area is equivalent to a blessing for your heirs.   
2. A second key area is that of medical concerns. Most people fail to recognize that you need to name someone as your medical durable power of attorney, which allows them to make decisions for your health if or when you are unable to make them. I have seen many families confused at the end of a parent's life when they have to go to court or have a medical doctor put in place a proxy or other legal document to have input on health decisions.  Without naming someone you trust to serve on your behalf, the ability to make decisions in alignment with your wishes is greatly diminished. It is important to give careful thought to a person that you trust and value to speak for you when you are unable to confirm the direction of your care.  

3. Third, don't forget that insurance plays a part in finishing well. There's a reason why long-term care insurance costs less if you pay for it early in your working years. The average cost for a basic assisted living facility, all the way up to a skilled nursing facility, can range from $6,000 to $15,000 a month for care. That's a high cost for anyone, but it can be devastating for those who have no accumulated funds or insurance to cover it.  Life insurance also plays a significant role in providing for those we love as well.  So it is well worth the time to investigate options for all insurance products that will address the financial goals and objectives that you have.

4. There is much more that can be said about these legal and medical things that need to be in place, but certainly, let's not overlook the spiritual component that we as husbands and fathers are charged with passing on to our families. Some of the sweetest moments in ministry I have had through the years have been with families who celebrate communion together, knowing that someone's life may end in the next few weeks or months.  I've watched fathers who realized their time was short, as they served communion to their family, and as that father laid his hands on each family member during a time of blessing to make sure that they knew their great love for them.

Conversations with MMC Leadership   

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

We are recording our 100th podcast for Men’s Ministry Catalyst.  We have covered a wide variety of topics related to biblical manhood, including marriage and parenting, discipleship, and spiritual growth.  We have covered some difficult subjects, such as abuse, and have heard from many ministry leaders to help the leaders of men stay informed and prepared with a biblical approach to all areas of a man’s life.

This is a historic episode and very much a celebration of the milestone.  It contains reflections on the past 100 episodes and gives insight into the future.  Several Things are in play here:  1) The 100th Episode. When you only record two episodes a month, it takes quite a while to get to those numbers.  What an exciting time for MMC, given our consistency with our Podcasts.  2)  Men’s Ministry Catalyst is now under the umbrella of the Relational Discipleship Network, which coaches churches on how to make disciples who make disciples.  We talked about this several episodes ago.  This change gives MMC a much larger platform and the ability to more effectively impact the ministry to men within these local churches.   3)  We are changing up some of the personnel that we have had since our Podcast began.   Dale Eudy has been our Co-host since the beginning.  In Episode #101, Dale Eudy will be our guest.   4) Eddie Bateman, as the director of MMC, will be joining me as we co-host this podcast together going forward.  

So let me bring in Eddie Bateman, who is the director of MMC going forward.  Eddie joined MMC in March, and we are thrilled to have him lead this ministry into the future.    Eddie – Welcome to the podcast.    

So, enjoy the conversation and celebration between Wendell Morton, Eddie Bateman, and Dale Eudy, and their conversation about the 100 Episodes and our experience with ministry to men.   

For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Avoiding Sin or Pursuing God:

A Biblical Perspective

Think about this: how valuable is your soul for Satan to pursue it tirelessly, and for the King of Kings to lay down His own life for you?  

Welcome to the Podcast:  

Dale – the age-old conflict: how do I love God and yet overcome sin?  Is it about gritting my teeth and being determined to overcome sin, or is it the focus on my relationship with God and being focused on loving Him that allows me to have victory over sin? 

Overall General Thoughts:  

As believers, we know that sin is what separates us from God  (Romans 3:23).

Let’s be clear: I have given Jesus Christ countless reasons not to love me, but none of them changed His mind.  

What God creates – Satan Corrupts 

Decide what kind of life you want, who you want to please, and say no to everything else that does not fit into this desire.  

Thoughts on Pursuing God:

1. Seek God through His Word – Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”  What does this mean, and how do we do it?  Does it really make a difference – if so, why does it make a difference? 

2. Rely on Prayer and God’s Presence – Matthew 26:41: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.”

What does prayer and practicing God’s presence mean?  How do I do this?  How it help me overcome temptation?    

3.      Walk in the Spirit – This seems a little weird for men specifically.  What might this mean, and more importantly, how do we do it? 

• Galatians 5:16: “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

•      Hebrews 12:2: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith”.  

• Pursuing God means yielding to the Spirit’s guidance.

4. Fellowship with Believers

• Hebrews 10:24–25: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds… not giving up meeting together.”

• Community helps us stay accountable and encouraged.

Conclusion

Avoiding sin isn’t about willpower alone, but about actively pursuing God through Scripture, prayer, Spirit-led living, fellowship, and Christ-centered focus.  It is a focus and a love thing.  One of the pastors at my church said it this way: There is a major distinction between living to please God, rather than living to appease God.  Danny Erbaugh 

Be encouraged: God provides the way out of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).

As a reminder, our podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Highlighting Youth For Christ Ministry

Guest: Ken Allen      

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Our guest on this episode is Ken Allen.  He is the Executive Director of Youth for Christ for the Denver area. When Youth for Christ started, it was with rallies, meaning the youth came to a centralized location for the ministry experience.  Now the ministry goes to the youth, in their schools,  in juvenile justice, which is inside the juvenile detention centers.  Whatever and wherever the ministry, Ken and his team focus on impacting a generation of young men and women to share with them that God loves them and they have a purpose.  

Youth For Christ has just opened a Youth Center in the most violent zip codes in the Denver area.  They are providing a safe place with activity, learning, and mentors.   Today’s youth (Alpha generation) does not have an opinion of God or of the church. They have no experience with either, so it is a blank slate.  A loving consistent

We are a ministry to men – we see the impact of fathers, or lack of fathers, in walking with their children in their walk of faith. What are you seeing in your ministry regarding this?   The very sad statistic is that 85 to 90% of the majority of the youth who are being mentored in some manner do not have a dad in their life.   Men they need us to be thein their lives who can provide what only a man can provide.   Again, it is not about qualification, it is about availability, consistency, and having a deep love for our youth. 

What are the needs of any YFC?  For all Youth For Christ ministries around the country, they need the support of the local church, volunteers who will become mentors for a young man or woman who has no mentor in their life.   It is not about qualification, it is about availability, consistency, and having a deep love for the youth we are working with.  

To reach Ken or Youth for Christ, go to:  

National Website:  https://yfc.net 

Denver Area:  https://yfcdenver.org 

As a reminder, our podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Dr. Chuck Stecker     

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Dr. Stecker has given his ministry life focusing on intergenerational ministry.  This involves bringing multiple groups together to impact each other spiritually, as well as assisting young people to move into Spiritual adulthood.   A key understanding is that grandparents are some of the most influential people in the lives of their grandchildren. 

In this episode, Dr. Stecker focuses on some key roles and some key skills to be intentional in impacting your grandkids.  

A couple of the Key Roles: 

You can connect their past to their future through your stories

Provide a safe place to talk about their challenges 

Teach your grandchildren to dream  

A couple of the Key Skills: 

Honor their parents above all 

Look for special opportunities to be with your grandchildren

If you are a grandparent, you have been given a golden opportunity you did not even have as a parent.   Parents have to deal with the day-to-day.  Grandparents have the opportunity to deal with their future.    

You can reach Dr. Stecker at:  info@achosengeneration.org  

Visit the website to learn more: https://achosengeneration.org

As a reminder, our podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Sean Rodriguez     

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

This is a podcast you will not want to pass over.   This will inspire you to grab your dream and let God bring it to reality.  Be prepared to grow through the process.  

Sean says:  God gave us purpose, so we have to LIVE on purpose.”

Few artists embody the intersection of faith, family, and purpose-driven artistry quite like Sean Rodriguez. A next-generation pastor-turned-singer-songwriter, Sean and his young family took a leap of faith in 2022, leaving behind the familiar landscapes of Colorado to plant new roots in Nashville, TN. The calling? To create Christ-centered music that not only inspires but ignites hope in the hearts of today’s generations as they journey toward God.

“I want this music and its message to encourage as many families as possible right now,” Sean shares earnestly. “But even more than that, it’s our prayer that the seeds planted today will lead to incredible growth tomorrow. How incredible it is to think that God could use music to play a part in someone’s greater story?”

That vision is resonating powerfully. Sean’s late 2024 single, "It Is Finished" (feat. Disciple), has spent ten non-consecutive weeks at #1 on the CMW Rock Chart, while the title track of his WieRok Records album debut Jesus Will EP (2025)has amassed over 2M streams on Spotify and Pandora alone within its first six months of release. Compared to all of 2024, Sean’s growing catalogue has reached over 8 million streams combined on the top five global digital streaming platforms—an undeniable testament to the impact of his music and current audience expansion.

Sean gave us several key points that any of us can use to pursue our God given dream and be in a position where God can use our lives to make an impact.    

1. You need a close advocate who has your back.  Listen to what his wife said when he told her he believed God had called them to move.  Immediate response:  “I’ll start packing”!
2. You need someone who sees your future.  He was visiting with his grandma when she said,  “You need to pray for what you are asking God for, then you need to turn around and tell God, if it does not happen, I will serve you faithfully wherever you have me”.  At that point, Sean had moved to Nashville, but was not recording or even using his music for ministry – he was just serving, waiting for God to open doors.  
   
   
   
3. Know there will be disappointments, betrayals, and very low times.  Sean’s word was that you have got to give up the pride of performance and the humility of serving.  

This podcast is full of encouragement, biblical truth, and a focus on service.   

To find Sean's music, type in any browser:  Sean Rodriguez Music, and his music will pop up.  

As a reminder, our podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Ron (Hoss) Hostetler   

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Ron (Hoss) Hostetler is our guest today.  You will enjoy this discussion.  He is a great storyteller and instills biblical and practical wisdom in his messages.  

Hoss went to college in Happy Valley, also known as Penn State, with the intention of playing quarterback.  Coach Paterno had brought in 7 freshman quarterbacks that year.  Having played linebacker before, he converted to this position.  After his time in Happy Valley, he was drafted by the Rams.  

Since football, Hoss has spent a great deal of time talking to and working with men, sharing many of the lessons he has learned from his time in football.   His coach (Joe Paterno) focused on Getting Better Today!  There is a lot to be learned from this.  To be able to focus intentionally on just getting better today makes a difference.   How much different could each of these areas be if we focus on intentionally being better in each of these areas: our marriage, our parenting, our job, our neighborhood, and most of all, our relationship with God?

What are some areas that you need to focus on to become better?  Think of how you would improve if you joined a team of men – a small group at church – and built the group on principles of building your faith in Jesus Christ, accountability, encouragement, honest dialogue, non-defensive discussion, and included Biblical wisdom. 

You can find Ron Hostetler at hossusa@msn.com.   His website is:  www.bettermenbetterworld.com   

As a reminder, our podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Ron Cool   

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Years ago, there was a book that became popular, was about a Long Obedience.  Today we are going to see “A Quick Obedience in the Right Direction”.  While it is not a book(yet), it is an encouraging story of faith and a quick “yes”, once the direction is abundantly clear.  All I can say as we listen today is – let that be true of me.    

Our guest today was working with very recognizable clients and bringing in a lot of money, providing an awesome service for them.  Let me be really clear – There is nothing wrong with making a lot of money.  In this case, for our guest today, he believed beyond a shadow of a doubt that God was telling him to walk away from it, as it had become his god.  And in a matter of minutes, he talked with his wife, and they did just that. 

Ron tells us that God shared three things with him that he needed to do.  The great news for Ron and his family is that he was obedient.   How about us?  If God tells us to do something that seems to us as dramatic as He told Ron, how would we respond?   I pray for me and you, that we be “a quick obedience in the right direction”.  

For Ron, it took a serious conversation with his wife, where she was clear that the marriage was dead and she had moved on.  His life was about work, work, work, and work.  Her life was about kids, kids, kids, and kids.  Thank God, Ron listened to God’s call on his life.   

When he finally listened to God, he believed God told him three things: 

1. Pause – stop the noise and the activity. 
2. Surrender – are we willing to give up the god we are worshipping? For Ron, it was work, work, work, and work.   Ron – obeyed the Lord and gave up his business immediately. 
3. Spend time with God – God is not a box to check, but a relationship to develop.  

Today, Ron is very effective in ministry with men, consulting, coaching, and mostly with his family.  He has also published a worship track that you will want to hear.   You will want to follow Ron and get connected with his tremendous, life-changing resources and coaching.  

You can find Ron Cool at:  www.newpathnewyou.com. This website will open up many ways to connect.   You will be blessed.   

As a reminder, our podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Aaron Bennett  

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Today, you are in for a major gift of encouragement.  When God transforms a life, He does not take shortcuts; He does not pick and choose whom He transforms; He is only looking for a surrendered heart that knows that without Him, we have no hope.   

I met Aaron the first time on video.  I am blessed to attend a church that celebrates the work that God is doing in the lives of people.  I watched a video that Aaron, the tech team, had put together.  

Today, you are going to meet Aaron Bennett.  God is blessing him and his wife, Deb, in so many ways.  Our local church is so blessed to have them “All In” with our church.  

Aaron Bennett has done many things in his career: a Professional Baseball player, a construction worker, a Club Manager, and now a Sales leader.  Ultimately, none of that is important.  Today, we are going to meet a man who was far from God – brought back to Father God – and now, as hard as he was running away from God, he and his wonderful Bride, Deb, are investing deeply in the cause of Christ.  Here is what Aaron would say: I can come to Christ and be transformed; anyone can!! 

Parents, if you have children far from God, be encouraged today.  God is working in their lives – pray that they will respond to Him. 

Spouses, if you have a spouse who has wandered from God, be encouraged today.  God is working in their lives to bring them back to themselves and to you.  Pray that they will respond to the working of God in their life.  

If you have a brother or sister who is far from God, never, ever give up.  God is working to bring them back to Himself. 

What did Aaron’s mother do?  Follow her example: Pray with passion and power to release the Holy Spirit into their lives.  Love them like their eternity depends on it, for it does.  Accept them back, like the father of the prodigal son did. 

“While we were sinners, Christ died for us”, Romans 5:8  

If you want to connect with Aaron Bennett directly,  reach out to bennett.aaron1@gmail.com   

As a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Don Paterson    

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

We have all heard of families whose Christian faith points back many generations.  We as men, fathers in our families, want this to extend to our kids, their kids, and keep going to even future generations.   Psalm 78:1-7, starting in verse 5, says this: “He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, so the next generation might know them, even the children yet to be born.” 

Our guest today will walk us through what he has done to do just this with his family.   He has 3 boys and 5 grandchildren.  All of whom are Christ followers.  

Creating a Spiritual legacy for your family starts with us as men.  The basic premise is that our wives want us to be the spiritual leaders of our family.  Our wives may be more biblically literate, spend more time in prayer and Bible reading than we do, and we may feel very insecure in our spiritual journey when it comes to Spiritual leadership.  Despite any reasons why you, as a man, are insecure in this process, it is our role to simply take initiative to ensure these processes are happening in your family.   It has the potential to change your family for generations to come.  

As we think about what we, as men, can do to initiate this process, let’s look at a few practical steps: 

1. Your personal relationship with God becomes a very high priority.  
2. You and your wife should find time and ways to pray and study the Word together.
3. It is important for your family to pray together, beyond the prayer at meal time.  
4. Ask your family questions around the dinner table, like “Where did you see God working today”?
5. Tribal stories – family stories where you have seen God intervene in a spiritual context.  Tell and retell these stories to future generations.   

If you want to connect with Don Paterson directly,  reach out via email:  donp0018@gmail.com   

As a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Rob Thorpe  

Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Rob Thorpe has spoken at dozens of ISI Men’s Conferences over the last decade, as well as the national ISI Marriage Conference. He has held dozens of marriage-related workshops, classes, and retreats for churches in multiple states.  Rob counts it his greatest privilege and honor that he and his wife Billie have been married almost 50 years and couldn’t be prouder of their three awesome adult sons and their thirteen amazing grandchildren.

Rob began this ministry by having couples who were younger than them mentor them in their relationship.  From there, it moved to a life group for young couples, which then moved to conferences and ultimately to several books.   

Rob has several key points:  

1. You cannot learn your way to a great marriage, which most of us try.  
   1. It starts with walking closer and closer with God.  The closer we get to God, the better we will honor and love our wives the way God intends for us to do.  
   2. Getting closer to God and His word helps us to understand that Spiritual Warfare is a part of your life as a believer and even more so as a married believer.   Satan attacked the first couple, and as we know, it had devastating consequences.   Nothing is more important to our enemy than to attack marriages and split us apart, which impacts our children and grandchildren.  
2. Marriage is God’s workshop for showing us how selfish we can be.  Men, we can all be selfish by making other things more important than our marriage, or even just not being engaged fully in our marriage.   Let’s make marriage the most important relationship in our lives, beyond our relationship with God.  
3. Love is a verb, meaning it requires action.   
   1. We need to do something to demonstrate our love for our wives every day.   
   2. We need to be proactive in meeting needs, heading off incoming problems.  
   3. We need to reach out for help early rather than bluff our way to divorce.  

Marriage is the primary institution that God created.  Men, let’s step into this and love and honor our wives and protect our marriages at all costs.   God’s heart will be pleased with us as we do just that.    Praying for you.  

Questions to consider about your marriage:  

1.  Ask your wife how you are doing as a husband.  What one thing can I do for you that you will appreciate and so I am able to demonstrate my love for you?
2. What challenge is in your marriage?  What one thing can you do today to take initiative to resolve this challenge?  Seek a marriage mentor for yourself,   

If you want to connect with Rob Thorpe directly, reach out via email: 

Marriagesthatmatter@gmail.com 

As a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Reza Zadeh   

Director, Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Great story from our guest today.  Originally from Iran,  he grew up as a Muslim in Southern California.  It was through sports and Athletes in Action (AIA) that Reza came to know Jesus.  Since Jesus impacted his life so deeply, he chose to answer the ministry call on his life to impact others through pastoring, Athletes in Action, sharing the Word in churches, camps, golf courses, and coaching.  

What do many men deal with in their process of coming to Christ and maturing in their faith?

Identity – Everyone wrestles with the idea of what their identity is.   We are conditioned in our society to create our own identity – after all, we are self-made men, correct?  As men of God, we do want to find our identity in Christ, but we often fail to understand that our identity is not something we achieve; it is something we receive from God.  

Father – How do we view our earthly father?  Often, we translate that view to our heavenly Father.  If we have had an absent, abusive, neglectful, or a father we were unable to please, we translate that to what we think about God our Father.  It is important to see God as He is presented in the Bible, not necessarily in our human experience.  Sometimes having a mentor, or close friend, that we can utilize to help build a positive and correct view of our Heavenly Father.   How you see God as your Father does make a massive impact on your life.  

Shame – someone said that shame is the language the enemy speaks.  Lying is what the enemy does.  Shame says I am bad because of what I have done.   It is not conviction that leads us to make changes, it is a condition that causes us to live under the impact of thinking we are bad…no hope, with no ability to be anything other than bad.    Guilt says I did something bad and is a motivator to help you make changes.  The truth is, I am a child of God.   I need to repent and make changes, but  God loves me, can forgive me, and place the identity of a man of God within me.   You are not your sin – you are a child of the living God.  

Men – today, replace lies with truth.  Our engagement with God and open dialogue with trusted men of God can make a massive impact in your life. 

Today, live your identity in Christ and pursue the truth of God about you, found in the Word of God.  YOU ARE A CHILD OF THE LIVING GOD!!  

If you want to connect with Reza Zadeh directly, visit  https://www.rezazadeh.co   

As a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Eddie Bateman  

Director, Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Our Founder and Board of Directors of Men’s Ministry Catalyst (MMC) are very excited to continue the conversation about the MMC Legacy we have discussed for years.  MMC is very excited to share that this continues to move forward.  One of the most important ingredients to help this move forward is the hiring of the right person. This is the person who can make this dream become a reality by leading MMC into the future.   

MMC is very excited to introduce you to Eddie Bateman, Director of MMC.   Let me say that it would be very beneficial for you to listen to this podcast to really get to know Eddie, his family, his background, and all that he brings to this role at this particular time.  What is so thrilling to hear is the connections only God could have orchestrated to bring this all together at this time in this way.  The relationships between our founder, Dr. Jim Grassi, the organization we are combining with, known as RDN (Relational Discipleship Network), as well as the local church out of which RDN was birthed and of which Dr. Grassi was and is involved.  

Please listen and then welcome Eddie Bateman to the organization.   

If you want to connect with Eddie Bateman directly: 

eddie@mensministrycatalyst.org     208.755.9863

Just a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Friend or Foe?

Guest: Tristan Johnson 

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Today, we hear so much about Artificial Intelligence.   There are strong opinions from both sides of the belief system regarding AI.   Today we are going to jump into the discussion:  AI – Friend or Foe??  

Tristan is a devout believer, a ministry to men ministry leader, an entrepreneur, and a business leader who uses AI not only in his business, but also in his local ministry.  In full disclosure, Tristan has blessed our ministry with taking some of the books that our Founder, Dr. Jim Grassi, has written, and is in the process of helping MMC create small group study guides that local churches will use with their men’s groups. 

We started the conversation with Tristan on the basics. Some will remember the great Vince Lombardi, Green Bay Football coach, who started every football camp with his professional football players holding up a football and simply said: “This is a football”.  

You will want to listen hear Tristan discuss what AI is and equally importantly, what AI is not.  He was also very clear on the advantages of using AI and some guardrails to keep in mind as you are moving forward.   

If you are considering using AI in either your business or your ministry, Tristan Johnson would certainly be someone who could help you sort through any of your questions or concerns.   

Please enjoy the conversation with Tristan. 

If you want to connect with Tristan Johnson directly:  tristan@tristanjohnson.org      

https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/ 

 Just a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest: Mike Young 

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

As the man goes, so goes the church. As the church goes, so goes the culture.

Our guest today is Mike Young.  He is the Founder of Noble Warriors, has a passion to see men grow, serve and lead as godly men… Noble Warriors even. He especially wants to see this in his three sons and the man that he hopes his daughter will someday marry.

He is a member of the National Coalition of Ministries to Men (and served as President for 3 years), as well as a member of the Iron Sharpens Iron Network and the Fatherhood CoMission.

Mike and his beautiful wife, Stacy, have three sons (Tim, who is married to Caroline, Zach, Ben) and a daughter (Hannah).

Mike has many tools on his website that you will want to check out.  We would also encourage you to review his video series on “5 Keys to Effective Discipleship” that he is making available to you at no cost. 

He mentions keys like Prayer and Building a team.  You will want to listen to these videos to get the details on these two and the other three keys.  

Mike is offering his “5 Keys to Effective Men’s Discipleship” to anyone who would like it:  5 Keys to Effective Men’s Discipleship

If you want to connect with Mike Young, or with Noble Warriors:  

https://noblewarriors.org 

 Just a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Jonny Benton

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Wild Warrior Adventure(WWA) was ​started in 2018 by ​men​ who love fly fishing and have a heart for the sacrifice and service of Combat Veterans.  Bonded by the significant life impact of The Wild Adventure, WWA founders give back to active-duty and retired Veterans, specifically those experiencing combat operational stress injuries. WWA Board Members are committed to the healing of emotional, moral, and spiritual wounds in combat veterans. 

An invisible epidemic is plaguing our nation. It affects our loved ones, co-workers, and neighbors, and sadly, it is not a new phenomenon. It has ravaged relationships and lives throughout the centuries, and before we even knew its name, it was referenced in literary works by Homer, Shakespeare, and Dickens. Over the years, it has been called many things. Following the Civil War, we called it “Soldier’s Heart.” After the First World War, it was referred to as “Combat Fatigue” or “Shell Shock.” Today, we call it post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, and it is still wreaking havoc.

PTSD affects 8 million Americans each year, and regrettably, too many of these individuals are suffering in silence. The reality of living with PTSD is a daily struggle for a growing number of veterans and service members. However, this condition is not confined to those who have served in our military. It is also an enduring burden for our police officers, sexual assault survivors, and many others who have experienced significant trauma. 

The inclusion of faith-based solutions to combating suicide and PTSD has been embraced by the highest echelons of the executive branch. In President Trump’s executive order on ending veteran suicide, he calls for the inclusion of faith-based organizations, and this acknowledgment should be lauded.

The title of this much longer article quoted prior is:  Faith-Based Treatment Should be Explored as an Option for Helping Solve PTSD.  (see Wild Warriors website)Rep. Vicky Hartzler R- MO

Listener, you will want to take the time to listen to this podcast.   Jonny’s personal story is enough to say Thank you for your service. More importantly, to see inside the mind and heart of a man who was willing to give his life for his family, and for you and me.  We also see that the residue that sticks with a man who has lived in an extended wartime environment is one that most of us will never understand.   Yet despite all of his trauma, deep struggles, and a desire to end his life multiple times, Jonny would say:  OUR GOD IS FAITHFUL, AND HE DOES HEAL.  

I am so proud to know Warrior Jonny and even more proud of him for taking his pain and turning it into a ministry to be an instrument of healing for many others.   Jonny  - Bless you, your family, and the men God brings into your life for hope and healing.   

To reach Jonny Benton and Wild Warrior Adventure, go to:  https://www.wildwarrioradventure.org.  

 Just a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

The first local Father's Day was in Spokane, WA, in 1907.  It took a long time and a lot of effort, but President Johnson recognized it in 1966.  However, it was in 1972 that it became a National Holiday.  Mother's Day was recognized as a National Holiday in 1915.  

Many fathers in the Bible teach us pieces of what it means to be a father.  

Adam: the first father – his job was to be the protector and provider for Eve and his family.  We see the consequences of poor choices, complexities of relationships, all of which mirror the dilemmas we all face as fathers.  Lesson: We as fathers will always be caught in a dilemma that we will need to confront.   If the first man struggled, let’s not give up when we struggle.  

Noah: Here was a righteous father who showed us unwavering faith in the goodness of God and complete dedication to his family in a very corrupt world, which we are facing today.   Lesson: Noah is an example of a father's role in protecting his family, no matter the circumstances or outcome.  Protect your family's being, trust God’s commands, and trust in the goodness of God.  

Father of the Prodigal Son: While this parable is not a true story, it has many lessons about fatherhood.  The son had left the family, he went wild, spent his portion of the father's inheritance, and then came crawling back, repentantly, to the father.  How many of us as fathers have had kids who went astray or are still astray from the family and God?  This is heartbreaking!  No other way to say it – heartbreaking!  Lesson:  What do we learn about God and about our role as a father from how this father responded to his child when he came back?  

Celebrating Fathers Today:  What do we celebrate about Fathers today?

1. No one has more long-term influence than a father in a child's life.   We have all sorts of negative examples, of course, but we have many positive examples.   If you are a dad who struggled with your dad, find a positive mentor who can help you parent in a way that you will be pleased.   None of us is perfect – we all need support.   
2. Every dad wants to succeed at being a good parent for his kids.   Do not be afraid to reach out for support, help, and guidance.   We can rarely do well what we have not experienced or witnessed in the “doing well” category. 
3. Do not give up on your children.  It can be very hard as kids get older, if they have fallen away from the family or God.   Trust that the Holy Spirit is working in their lives to bring them to Himself, which most often leads back to you as well.  

Men: what you are doing as a father is a good and Godly thing.  Our children learn so much about what they think of God through their relationship with you.  

1. Pray for your children every day.  Love them unconditionally with Godly standards.
2. Involve yourself in their life – they know they are important because you have put aside other things to involve yourself with them.  
3. Bring other Godly Men around your kids.  They see the love of God in other families who are connected with you, and they learn this is the way to live, under the power and love of God Almighty! 

Happy Father's Day – God has a great calling on your life, which is to represent Him to your children!! 

Guest:  Scott Haima

Act Like Men - Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes Founded in 1996 at the height of the Promise Keepers movement, The National Coalition of Ministries to Men (NCMM) was created and today brings together more than 200 organizations and independent ministers who share a single objective: to connect the men who disciple men. NCMM doesn’t minister directly to men – instead, we bring together the individuals and organizations that do this vital work. The goal is to help these organizations do what none of them can do on their own. Their intent is listed in three words: Together, Building Men.

Ministry Vision
Discipleship is at the core of the Great Commission and our vision is that the Body of Christ be fully equipped to mobilize men as disciples in Christ. To “mobilize” means to assemble and put in a state of readiness for immediate active service in time of war. Our members are committed to calling forth men (assembling) and equipping them (state of readiness) for service. NCMM simply provides the platform for the members’ networking to take place for the discipleship process.

The overall strategy of NCMM is focused on four distinct phrases: 

• Visibility: We will raise awareness on behalf of the members with the need to disciple and mobilize men and to develop the resources within the Body of Christ to meet that need.
• Networking / Connection: We will foster points of connection between members for leadership development, training, fellowship, and networking.
• Resources: We will facilitate faster access to member resources and sponsor the development of needed resources beyond the scope of any one member.
• Ministry Development / Incubation: We will serve as an incubation conduit to develop emerging ministries.

NCMM has several ways to support you as men’s leaders who are part of the NCMM network.

Free Resources.

Monthly Training and encouragement calls.

Books written by the leaders in the network, as well as sponsored by NCMM.

A collection of podcasts is available, including MMC podcasts being featured there.

NCMM National Conference (annual)

Leaders of Men:

1. You can go to the NCMM website to find numerous resources and speakers who are experts in areas where your men need support.
2. You can find a group of leaders who are walking through exactly the issues, challenges, and opportunities that you are also facing.
3. Know that you are not alone – reach out and get support and expertise.

For more information about the NCMM:  

Website:  https://ncmm.org/ 

To Reach Scott Haima, Executive Director:  scott@ncmm.org 

Just a reminder, these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Beyond Your Divorce 

Guest:  Dr. Dale Brown

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Every week there are 15,000 divorces in America. Divorce affects everyone in the equation. Since more than 70% of divorces are filed by the wives, it affects men differently. This statistic tells us divorce is an epidemic today, in and out of the church. Culturally we see that relationships are throw away and the impact has generational consequences. If there was ever a time to support men going through and following a divorce, the time is now.

While divorce is not God’s design for marriage, given the statistics today, supporting men going through or learning to live after a divorce is critical. That is where ministries like the one our guest leads today come into play.  It is also very important that our local churches step into this and provide support and direction for the men of the church.

Our guest today is Dr. Dale Brown. He is the founder of Men’s Divorce Recovery: https://www.mensdivorcerecovery.org

As you will hear when you listen, Dr. Brown has some tremendous insights that are both practical and thoughts we may not be able to think of at the time.

Here are just a handful of things to consider in the divorce:

1. Know that this too shall pass – you will get through this.
2. Don’t give in to what you are feeling – lasting impacts come from foolish decisions when you are trying to avoid the pain.  It is easy to medicate, react, and blame.  None of that has any long-term benefit and in most cases has negative short and long-term impacts.
3. Build a healthy team around you – a counselor, an attorney, financial advisor, medical doctor, and a couple of impartial friends whose only job is to be present.
4. Protect the kids – they will automatically believe it is their fault. Do not speak ill of your spouse (their mother).  They cannot get caught in the middle.
5. Don’t give up – Back to #1 – you will come out on the other side.  Do what you have to do to come out healthy and able to move forward.

Men – you are not alone, but you will have to take the initiative to reach out and ensure you are getting the support and help you need to work through this while protecting children who may be caught in the middle.

God loves you and will not leave you during this challenge. No matter what you have done or not done to create what you are walking through – He will not leave you.

Dr. Brown has a devotional book that you can order from his website listed below:  The Daily Survival Guide for Divorced Men. We encourage you to order one for yourself, perhaps several to give out to men who are experiencing divorce in your local church.

To reach out to our guest, Dr. Dale Brown you can:

1. Reach Dale or his team directly:  hello@mensdivorcerecovery.org
2. Find resources and help on his website, as well as order his devotional book:  Daily Survival Guide for Divorced Men https://www.mensdivorcerecovery.org 

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

A Call to Discipling Men 

Guest:  Dr. Jim Grassi 

Our guest today is Dr. Jim Grassi.  Jim is a Hall of Fame fisherman, a top 10 record bow hunter, as well as the Founder and President of Men’s Ministry Catalyst.  He has been married for 60 years, two adult boys (men) who are in full-time ministry. Those men are married with children and grandchildren.  

Spiritual Mentoring, or discipleship, is a relational process that requires people to become actively involved in their faith.  Authentic discipleship is about developing a caring concern and a genuine love for others through modeling Christlike attitudes and behavior in the context of relationships.  

Our guest today, Dr. Jim Grassi, founded this ministry in 1981 and has been actively focused on impacting men through a discipleship process since it began.  In addition, all of the resources that he has produced since the beginning are focused on either discipling those who read it, as well as those who are focused on using these materials to disciple others.  

Peter Marshall, a long-time chaplain of the US Senate, says this:  fishing for fish is pulling fish from life to death while fishing for men is pulling men from death to life.  What a great focus as we are thinking about sharing our faith story with others.  

BTW:  8 of the 12 Apostles, were fishermen.  Jesus has so many stories on the water, by the water, or from a boat.  He recognized how the fishermen brought life and existence to the villages they supported.  How much more for us to fish for men, who unlike the fish are not alive spiritually without God in their life.   

In Chapter 5, Jim talks about the formula he used in fishing.  It is F + L + P = Fishing Success.  What does that stand for and how does it apply to fishing for men?   “Fish + Location + Presentation = Fishing Success”   For us to catch men, we have to understand deeply and be involved with who it is we are trying to impact.  In addition, we are focused on the environment where these men are and what is the best way to connect with these men in genuine love. The third element is what is the best way to approach these men we are trying to impact.  Every man is unique and responds differently to various people and various situations.   In genuine love and desire to impact men for Christ, it is important to understand how God may want to use your life.    

Many of you may be asking yourself, what characteristics make a great fisher of men?   In chapter 8, Jim speaks to this with four great characteristics we can all strive to achieve.   1. Attitude – this is a genuine focused desire to make a difference. 2.  Perseverance – this is the highest calling I can have to impact others, and I will never give up. 3. Passion – this is what fuels our focus and perseverance.  4.  Patience – working with people is not a project.  It is knowing God wants to impact these men and He works in their timing to bring them to Himself.  God’s timing matters – not ours.    

Jim makes it clear that “it all starts with individual relationships.  We must see one-on-one discipleship as the primary object to begin another spiritual revolution.   

We pray you will join Jim, MMC, Dale, and me to pray for and work towards this spiritual revolution.  

To order one More Than a Fisherman, or any of Dr. Grassi’s books or resources, go to:     Home - Men's Ministry Catalyst

To read Dr. Jim Grassi or invite him to speak to your group, please email: Contact@mensministrycatalyst.org. 

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

EASTER – The most important Christian truth – also known as the Super Bowl for Christians.  It does not get bigger, more important, and more meaningful for Christians.  This is the event that Jesus chose to do for us, which not only gives us forgiveness for sin by his death but also gives us hope as it provides proof that we will live eternally - There is life after death!! 

Please take the time to read the Easter Story for yourself:  Luke 24:1-9

What did Jesus say about Himself: 

I am the resurrection and the life.  The one who believes in me will live, even though they did.  And whoever lives by believing in me will never die.  John 11:25-26. 

Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me.  Because I live, you also will live  John 14:19

What did the Apostle Paul Say: 

And God raised Jesus  and will also raise us by His power:  I Corinthians 6:14

What does all this mean?  Some thoughts. What are your thoughts?

1. The Ultimate Hope of Life After death is found in the resurrection of Jesus. 
2. Eternal Life – Not just making the most of this life, but we are really living for the next one. 
3. The biggest impact on our family is our example as men.  How am I using my example to show the impact of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead? 
4. The greatest gift we can give our wives, children, and friends is to lead them in confidence to Jesus so they will have eternal life. 
5. The Bible is clear that the mantel falls on us as men to be the spiritual leader of our home.  That only means we take initiative in spiritual things with our family.   

Questions: 

1. Where can I get help in learning how to love and lead my family in understanding this highest of all priorities?  The local church, Men’s small group, 1/1 discipling – take initiative and make it happen. 
2. What is one thing I can do to show intentionality as Easter Approaches?  

Make sure you are talking about the Easter Story, take them to church, and talk about it afterward

1. Who can I partner with to help me in my accountability in representing Easter as the highest of all opportunities?  Find a mentor 

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

A Man of God is a Good Steward 

Guest:  Dan Lagerborg 

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Today is an invaluable topic that too many men are not effectively dealing with.   God calls us to be good managers/stewards of what He gives us.   A steward is a responsible manager of the “things” entrusted to us by God.  Titus 1:7 tells us an overseer (steward) must be above reproach, self-controlled, and disciplined.   The Bible has at least 148 verses on Stewardship.  That same Bible has over 2,000 verses on money.

Our guest today started his financial planning/investment company more than 20 years ago and has some key  learnings. 

Some men feel they are too young to start planning for their financial future.  Some men feel they are too old, and it is too late.  Dan uses the story of:  When is the best time to plant a tree – 20 years ago. When is the second best time to plant a tree – right now?  This means that no matter where you are in your financial planning and investing journey, now is the time to get help to ensure you get where you want to go. Even pilots of sophisticated aircraft lean on air traffic controllers to land their planes correctly and safely.  

If you are a business owner, Dan has developed a clear and concise journey to be able to pass your business and your wealth onto your heirs and their heirs.   Only 7% of generational wealth passes to the following generations.   Dan has laid it out clearly in his book:  Perennial Wealth, available on Amazon.  

Men – one of the greatest opportunities we have is to be stewards of what God has given to us.  Your family depends on your faithfulness in this area.  If you are 20 or 60, it is never too late to start.  

Start today:  Reach out to Dan and his team to help you.  

To check out Dan’s website go to:   https://www.lagerbordandassociates.com 

To reach Dan, his email is: daniel.lagerborg@nm.com 

Phone #: 303.209.5238

 Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Steve Graves

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Men’s Ministry Catalyst (MMC) is honored to have Dr. Steve Graves with us today.  He was also here on Episode 64, where he focused on making 41 Deposits into his son as a young man.  I loved what he did for him as a good model for all of us as dads.

Today we are focused on making an impact for Christ in the Workplace.   Steve outlines some great processes for our responsibility and privilege as a man of God to utilize the calling we have from Christ to make an impact on our workplace.   

He talks about our baseline also called the foundation, which is where we start: 

1. Evidence of Your Calling – proof in your life that you are a man of God.  
2. Display Character – Your character needs to stand out so your words match your behavior.   
3. Deliver Skill – Develop your craft and do your work with excellence. 
4. Model Serving – Serving is surrendering to another's agenda.  Most of us do not do this naturally, however, we can have an impact in our workplace when we are willing to do this. 

When we hear what God has called us to in Luke 3, we may think for some reason we are disqualified for any number of reasons.  Steve helps us remove our “disqualifications”:  

No Exceptions for the Gospel Going to Work 

1. It is never too early, and it is never too late to take the gospel to work. 
2. You are never too young, and you are never too old to take the gospel to work.
3. Your work is never too simple, and never too complicated to take the gospel to work.  
4. Your organization is never too small, or never too big to take the gospel to work. 
5. Your work setting is never too religious, and never too secular to take the gospel to work.  

Chuck Coleson said Christians are called to redeem entire cultures, not just individuals.  This is a Biblical premise – a humbling honor – a challenge to bring your best every day – and to realize your workplace is a missionary setting.  While you are there to make money to provide for your family, to bring a profit to the company, to find and release your God-given gifts, the higher calling is to create a relational environment where you have earned the right to share your God-given story and invite them to take the journey with you.  

Questions: 

1. It is Sunday evening.  How are you feeling – dread, excitement, already looking for Friday? How do your feelings line up with God’s calling on you to impact your workplace for Christ?
2. What one thing can you do today to begin to see your workplace as a place of making an impact for Christ?   Who can help hold you accountable to learn to approach your workplace in this manner?  

For a FREE download of Steve’s book:  The Gospel Goes to Work, go to:  https://www.stephenrgraves.com/gotowork

You can reach Dr. Steve Graves at https://www.Stephenrgraves.com    Enjoy a lot of free resources and of course a listing of all of his books.  

To reach his consulting business:  https://www.connerstoneco.com    Steve consults business leaders from CEOs of major corporations to business owners from around the globe.  Sign up for his monthly Blog.  

 Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Rod Handley 

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Someone once said that Talent will get you only so far.  Character is what will take you home.  We are blessed today to have a man who has been focused on his character for decades.   Thank you for being open to sharing your story, which will inspire others to follow the pattern you shared.   

Rod Handley is the Founder & President of Character that Counts (CTC). Rod speaks nationwide to men, women, and teenagers about character, integrity, and accountability issues. He has written more than 35 books including "Character Counts: Who's Counting Yours?"  He served on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes staff, including 11 years as the COO/CFO. He has also spoken at many chapel services for several NFL, NBA, and MLB teams, including serving as team chaplain for the Kansas City Royals, and the Seattle SuperSonics, now Oklahoma City Thunder. Rod and his wife Janna live in Lee's Summit, MO and they have four children (ages 24-31) and three grandchildren.

In sharing his story, Rod talks about overcoming destructive and sinful habits and allowing God’s character to lead you.  He highlighted a word that can cause way too many of us to live life carefully, tentatively, or in shame.  That word is “secrets”. When we live life with secrets there is always the fear that at some point that secret will be revealed and it will change the direction of our life.  The truth is – it will.  We need to deal with our secrets and allow God to heal us and move us forward.   

Rod uses three words to show the path to help and wholeness in Christ. Those words are:  Character, Integrity, and Accountability.   These are great words.  While we will let Rod’s ministry define each one within their context, most of us immediately relate to them and know they are foundational to living a life of meaning in our relationships, our marketplace, and of course our life with God.  

Today: 

1.  How would you in your honest moments define your character?  What area needs to be improved?
2. How would you define your integrity?  Who are you when no one is looking?  
3. How would you define your accountability?  Many are thrilled to be accountable for our strengths.  What about those things in our life that weaken or destroy our character, or integrity?   What about those things that would destroy those closest to us?  

Find someone in your life you trust with your life and build a path towards, Godly Character, personal integrity, and deep levels of accountability.  You and everyone around you will be better for it.  

To reach out to Character That Counts:   https://characterthatcounts.org    

To reach out to Rod Handley directly:   Rodhandley@gmail.com

   Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Brant Hansen

Brant Hansen is a syndicated radio host (over 200 stations), an advocate for healing children with correctible disabilities through Project Cure, and the author of numerous books including Unoffendable, Blessed Are the Misfits, The Truth About Us, The Men We Need, and The Young Men We Need. In addition to speaking on the subject of “The Men We Need”, he frequently speaks at churches, conferences, and corporations on the topics of forgiveness, faith, the autism spectrum, and the kingdom of God. Brant is also a musician and occasional stand-up comedian. He and his wife, Carolyn, live in South Florida.

I (Wendell Morton)have a library of books written to men, about men, how to reach men, etc:  Brant Hansen’s book The Men We Need will be a classic book for men, men’s leaders, and pastors, for the foreseeable future. It should be in seminaries, bible colleges, and in every church in America…

What was the reason you wrote this book?  Hansen says: We have a major problem and that is that guys have no clue what masculinity is. We have some vague sense, but we do not have a coherent, beautiful, specific vision.  We may throw around the term “man up”, but other than picking yourself up by your bootstraps, be a Rambo,  or some other outdoorsy, sports dude, what does it mean?  This cannot be the essence of masculinity as many men do not fit that model and was it what God had commissioned for Adam. 

Your opening section is titled:  Keeper of the Garden: What do you mean by this and what does it involve? From the very beginning, even before sin, God had given Adam the job of keeping the garden… ultimately God had given man (us) the job of being responsible. There are humans inside your home, outside your window, and in your workplace who may come to harm (in the world and the world to come) because you are not taking the responsibility God had given you. 

Brant lists Six Decisions that we need to make: 

1. Forsake the Fake and Relish the Real – the fake is the dopamine hits that come from being involved in many things that are not real, or not core to the responsibility that God has given to us.   
2. Protect the Vulnerable – part of Adam’s was to protect the vulnerable, which was Eve, the animals, and plants in the Garden.  We see how that worked out.   
3. Be ambitious about the Right Things – ambition is a very good quality.  However, we might be pulled into ambition for things that are not core to which God has called us.   
4. Make Women and Children Feel Safe – nothing is more appealing than a man who is committed to always protecting his family.  That is of course physical, but also it is emotional, relational, and spiritual.   
5. Choose Today who you will become tomorrow – this is anti-cultural.  Who we are tomorrow is what we paid attention to today.  Be ambitious and focus attitudes, and actions, and focus on who God has called you to be tomorrow.   
6. Take Responsibility for your spiritual life – no one else is responsible for your relationship with God other than you.   Know that God loves you and will do things for you.  No one else is accountable before God for your spiritual life.

ask yourself:

1. What is your concept of masculinity?  Where did it come from?  
2. Where do you need to align your concept of masculinity with Biblical teaching?  
3. Who can come around to help you with areas in which you need to become accountable?   

To order any of his books go to Amazon and type in Books by Brant Hansen.  

  https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Dr. Chuck Stecker

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

The New England Journal of Medicine published a research article:  The most productive generations are people in the 70’s – you heard that correctly. People in their seventies have the opportunity to make the biggest impact on our world – specifically, those with whom they are in a relationship.  The second greatest generation to make an impact on our world – people in their sixties. The question is why these two generations, with whom do they have the biggest impact, and how can the local church utilize this research and engage these generations to impact their community through their generations within their local church? 

Many churches struggle to find ways to utilize specifically the Encore man with meaningful service.  Just because a man has time does not mean you just plug him into an empty slot and let it go.  Ultimately, for long-term fulfillment for the man and impact in the church, this connection needs to be in line with his Spiritual gifting and within his personality.  Most men can do anything for a while,  but long-term impact and fulfillment come when I am operating in my gifting and within my personality.  

With families now living all over the US and even abroad, for us to think that we as parents can impact and support our children and their families as we would like, is a myth.  We need the Encore generation to step into active roles both in the church and in the neighborhood to ministry where there are gaps in the Encore generation and young to middle-aged families.  

Dr. Stecker leads a ministry called A Chosen Generation.  There are two seminars that he leads that are powerful in the local church.   One is called:  If You Passed Your Baton Take It Back.  The other one is: Never Just Babysit Your Grandkids.  If your church is looking for a way to positively engage your senior population (Encore Generation), then reach out to Dr. Stecker at:  

Chuck@achosengeneration.org

Many Encore Men do not naturally know how to connect after their careers.   Men often leave sometime when they retire, rather than retire to something that has meaning a value for years to come.  

Pastors and church leaders – we urge you to intentionally connect your Encore generation in the work of the ministry that is fulfilling to them and beneficial to the local church.  Use their time and resources to impact the kingdom, by impacting your local community for Christ.  

To reach Chuck directly for seminars or consultation:  church@achosengeneration.org

To connect with the resources he mentioned at Men’s Ministry Catalyst, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/store/

Questions to Ask Yourself: 

1. If you are in the Encore generation – what are my spiritual gifts, and how does my personality impact what I am doing for God today?
2. What is my local church doing to utilize our generation to impact the younger ones in our church?
3. Who do I know that does not have parents or grandparents living close enough to make an impact on their family?  What can I do to make a difference in their lives?  

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Podcast Show Notes 

Once a year, the calendar moves from December 31 to January 1, a brand-new year full of new opportunities.  What is new for you in 2025?  What good thing have you carried forward from last year?  What challenge is lingering into 2025 that needs to be cleaned up, so it does not create a drag on you this year?  

While the weather can be dreary, a new year always has such optimism and hope attached to it.  It includes everything from the physical – losing weight and exercise; to the relational – new commitments to wives, children, and friends;   to the occupational – pursuing a new position or excelling at your current one;   to the spiritual – spending more time with God and reading and meditating on His Word.  

Wherever you are in your journey – the opportunities are yours right now.  In this episode, we will list a few simple steps to move forward and several Bible Verses that promote the promises of God to encourage you and provide direction right from God through His Word. 

• Determine to make this year count – live on mission- Isaiah 43:18-19: God declares that He is doing a new thing and making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
  • Keep it simple – too much will be too much over time.   What is your priority for this year? Take very small sustainable steps to get there.  
  • Take something off of your plate – you cannot do it all and sometimes we sacrifice the important for the urgent – which may not matter at all. 
  • Find someone to hold you accountable – report your simple progress to this person consistently – with no excuses   
• Relish small beginnings - Job 8:7: Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.  
  • Think of small next steps – many of us think of big opportunities.  
  • Enjoy the journey
  • Track your progress –
• Know that your life is not an accident or without purpose - Jer 29:11  For I know the plans I have for you – for a future, and a hope
  • How can this verse impact your sense of purpose?  
  • Some of us are born out of wedlock, family marriages fell apart, and lost jobs or health  - how can this verse provide some hope, encouragement, and perspective? 
  • Remove Toxic people from your inner circle – they want to pull you down, not lift you up. 
• New Beginnings only come through Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:17: Paul affirms that anyone who is in Christ is a new creation and the old has gone and the new has come.
  • All of us need new beginnings and new understanding at some point in our lives – all of us reach the end of ourselves 
  • Pause daily on purpose to be grateful for new beginnings 
  • Forgive yourself – if God has forgiven you, why would we not forgive ourselves
• Final Thought:  Romans 8:31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things?  If God is for us, who can be against us?  

Questions to consider: 

1. What new thing might you be jumping into this year?  Be specific and outline small steps 
2. What old thing is holding on from last year that needs your attention to resolve?  You are aware that if you do not resolve it, it will be around a year from now.  
3. What are the needs of those closest to you that you can encourage them or help them this year?  Reach out today

podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. 
additional podcasts: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Showing us the Reason for the Season

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Christmas is one of the most exciting, meaningful holidays of the year. However, for some, it can also be the most depressing, lonely time of the year.  It all depends on your experience, broken or lost relationships.   Because of all the emotions surrounding Christmas, highs and lows, it is important to prepare for the holiday.  

I know in many families, the wife tends to lead the way in actual preparation for Christmas.  While I was involved in the lead-up to Christmas, it was a bit awkward for me.  Even so men, get as involved as you can to ensure the family feels your involvement, which ultimately communicates your love.    

Christmas is the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.  For the next 33 years, Jesus lived on this earth: with no sin, establishing his authority among mankind as the Son of God, and ultimately he paid the price for our sins, He rose again… and that is why we celebrate Easter when we do.    

Powerful Life-Changing Verses about the baby Jesus!! 

1. Isaiah 7:14  Therefore God himself will give you a sign – a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call His name Immanuel (God with us).  

This verse establishes the foundation of our faith in the birth of Jesus. 

1. Luke 1:35:  And the Angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called Holy, the Son of God. 

This verse demonstrates the God part of Jesus -conceived by the Holy Spirit.  

1. Matthew 1:21  She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins. 

This verse establishes the purpose for Jesus coming.  He paid a debt He did not owe, for us who had a debt we could not pay.  

1. John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us… 

This verse establishes the fact that Jesus was fully human and lived among the people of His day.  

1. John 3:16;  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  

The most popular verse of the Bible.  This shows the motivation behind God sending His son to give to us a gift we could never earn.  Without God’s gift, we are all bound for an eternity without God.   

1. John 1:5 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.  

This verse indicates that through the person and work of Jesus, we will have eternal life with Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit.   

1. Romans 15:13  May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace in faith so that you overflow with hope, by the power of the Holy Spirit

This verse gives us a reason for hope no matter the circumstances in which we find ourselves.   This life is short, even though it feels long at times.  Our hope is in Jesus, the life He lived, and the work He did on the cross.  Because of that we can hope every day and find a way to live in victory this Holiday Season!! 

Questions to consider: 

1. If you have a family, as the husband and/or father, how will you intentionally insert yourself into the process this year to make this the best Christmas yet?
2. How do you prayerfully need to prepare yourself, so you can lead your family this year?  

https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Act Like Men- Men’s Leadership Podcast

Do you consider yourself a Thankful Person?  This is the time of the year when all of the conversation is about being Thankful. The history of Thanksgiving did not come out of tremendous blessings.  It came out of challenging circumstances, and the pilgrims believed they should be thankful regardless and the Native Americans and the Pilgrims shared a wonderful time together after coming through a difficult season.   

Regardless of where you find yourself this time of the year, the spirit and the act of being thankful can change your entire perspective on your life.   This is not only a great suggestion, but the Bible also tells us to focus on being thankful always, not just at the end of November.   

Often I am reminded of teaching children to say thank you when someone gave them something.  Do yo you remember saying to your children, “What do you say?”  At that time we were teaching our children to respond kindly to the generosity of another person.  But as our children got older, we did not have to prompt them as much for their words.  In fact, as parents, we are pleased when our children demonstrate that they have been paying attention and applying what they have been taught.  Sometimes we as adults need to take a lesson from our children and remember to be thankful in every aspect of our life.  

Let’s look briefly at what the Bible says about being thankful.  

1. The Lack of Thanksgiving is the Source of All Kinds of Sin

For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. (Romans 1:21, ESV)

2. Giving Thanks is Commanded for Believers

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul writes: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 

When you examine the Greek of this verse, you discover that the verb “give thanks” is both an imperative (you must do it) and present tense (you must keep doing it continually). We should never stop expressing our gratitude.

Let’s End With a Challenge: 

1. Start every conversation with God with a list of Thank You to God- not necessarily for the good things in your life, but the gifts God has given to mankind in general – His Son to pay for our sins, the joy of a new day that is challenging or not, the certainly of Heaven as a follower of Christ, “all things working together for good for those who love Him and are called according to his purpose”.
2. Be intentional in looking your fellowman in the eye and telling them an intentional Thank you for any consideration they provide – an open door, to coffee served, to food served, to work done on your behalf. People feel loved and valued when you look them in the eye and intentionally tell them you appreciate what they did.  
3. Look for the good in everything that is happening in your life. While we all want this life to be like heaven – always bright and cheery – this is not heaven and we need to search to find good in some of the very difficult times that come our way and the way of those whom we love.   

 https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Pastor Lee Hall 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

What is a generational curse and how do you know if you have one? With the advent of popular psychology, we often have labels for behaviors and attitudes that generations before we may have called, what the bible would call what is passed from one generation to the next, without breaking that curse.  The definition today is they are repeating patterns of misfortune that affect parents, their children, and beyond.   They can manifest in several ways:  disobedience, violence, idolatry, or bad habits. 

Pastor Lee Hall talks about a generational curse that he was under until God opened his eyes and delivered him from this curse.  There were many things that Pastor Hall mentioned as helping give him victory:

1. Awareness of the behaviors and attitudes he was manifesting that he had seen in his father. 
2. Decision to be different. 
3. Asking God to deliver him from the direction he was heading.  
4. Asking his father to forgive him for his attitude towards his father.   You heard that right – he believed it was on him to seek forgiveness.  Most of us would wait until our father came to us and asked for forgiveness – and would go to our grave with bitterness and anger towards him within us.   

This is the critical step in getting released from all the “stuff” that is in our heads, our hearts, and our spirits towards God and others.       

1. Live in victory daily and REFUSE to submit again to the curse from which you have been delivered. 

 Pastor Hall has hung onto II Corinthians 5:17 – If any man is in Christ, he is a new creation.   These verses were extremely valuable to Pastor Hall.  He states: “if God is not changing my situation, then God is about to change me”.  You can only live that when you engage in a faith walk, not walking by sight.   

Be encouraged today – trust God for your future – allow Him to change you and walk by faith every day!   

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. Do I feel stuck, repeating the attitudes and behaviors I saw in my dad?  Which one(s) specifically?   
2. Are you willing to allow God to change you and will you walk by faith, not by sight according to what is around you? 
3. Who do I know who can become a prayer partner and accountability partner to help me walk out of these “curses”?  Ensure this man could be or is a mentor for you. 

To contact Pastor Lee Hall for a discussion or prayer:   

leehallsr81@gmail.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Ray Hilbert 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Our guest today is passionate about helping high-capacity Christian Business leaders as they address balancing the demands of personal, professional, and spiritual lives while building successful companies and organizations. 

Ray Hilbert helps business owners and other coaches through a company called Kingdom Factor: Out of Psalm 78:72:  1)David – flawed leader:  Ray and his coaches work with flawed business leaders who want to follow Christ and run a Biblically-based business.  2) Integrity of Heart:  Doing the right things; handling your business with Christlike Biblically based principles and practices.  3) With Skillful hands he led them;  doing the right things to be profitable and sustain for God’s glory.  

Kingdom Factor leadership brings over 60 years of combined experience helping Christian business leaders become who and what God has called them to be. Our calling is building God’s Kingdom in and through the marketplace. Our passion is developing godly business leaders whom Christ is transforming. Our model is focused on developing Coaches who are equipped to be a leader of leaders.

Work is not the result of sin in the world.  Works is what God gave Adam to do tending the garden,  it was fun, enjoyable, and rewarding following the plan God had for him.  It was after sin, that that same work became difficult, and man would then sweat and toil as a result of sin.    However, we still work and the work we do is for God’s glory and our good. How do we flip the script and see our work as a missionary endeavor and choose to be able to share our faith, love, and encourage our coworkers or employees, and by doing so bring God the Glory and God gives us the benefit? 

Today, challenge yourself to embrace work.   God has you where are for a reason – for now fully embrace where you are so He gets the glory, and you receive the benefit.   God has something special for you – enjoy the work God has given you!! 

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. As a Christian employee, how do I approach work?   Is it because I have to be there with no other opportunities, or is it because I have an opportunity to share Jesus with my peers and my bosses, through my Christlike attitude, excellent work, and refusal to participate in gossip?   
2. As a business owner, how do I approach this business?  Is this God’s calling on my life?  How can I use the joys and struggles of owning a business to share my faith with others and have them bloom at work?  How can I use my business for God’s glory? 
3. If you would like to have coaching or just to have a conversation with a coach, please reach out to Ray Hilbert and Kingdom Factor at the contact info below. 

To learn more about  Kingdom Factor or to reach Ray Hilbert directly please go to:

https://kingdomfactor.us/ 

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Candice Crear   

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Whether your father has walked away, is in jail, has passed away, or is emotionally unavailable in the next room, this leader and her organization are here to help you. You matter, and you are seen, says the founder. She goes on to say we understand your journey because this founder, and our guest today, Candice Crear, had a challenging road of being fatherless at the age of 2, molested at 14, kicked out of college due to a lack of financial stability at 18, and laid off multiple times throughout adulthood. She was constantly hitting the brick wall of life and just wanted the pain to go away. She’s fought courageously to take back her life. You can too and they are ready to help you.  Whether you're a fatherless daughter or a mother trying to understand your child's pain, we’ll empower and equip you on your journey to healing and wholeness. Every day is a day worth fighting for.  

This ministry organization focuses on girls ages 13 to 19 in the greater Cincinnati area.  It varies slightly depending on how this organization gets connected with the girls.  They currently focus on being in schools and juvenile detention centers. It is important to connect with the girls in the environment where they are.  

To refresh from the last time Candice was on our podcast (Episode 29), “From Fatherless to Fearless” primarily uses a methodology called “B.R.I.D.G.E.”   This program is designed to help them set boundaries and exercise accountability; build healthy relationships and learn to express their feelings in a healthy way; grow to the next level while pursuing financial health; and live a greater tomorrow by embracing and facing their fearless journey. 

Fatherless to Fearless has been around for three years.  Since we met them 18 months ago, they have served 3x the number of young ladies, and their revenue has increased 5x.   This says that Candice and her team are clear on the vision, able to execute their planning, and have expanded the number of schools and detention centers that are willing to utilize their services.  

I will say that we need more people like Candice Crear who will take the pain of their life and put it into reaching those who are experiencing the same pain she has.  Too few of us know how to take intense pain and turn it into a ministry that will reach generations yet to be born.   

We are MMC are praying for Candice and others like her in this country who are selflessly pursuing the calling God has placed on their life to make a difference.  

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. Who do you know who is fatherless?  Start by praying for them and determine what your involvement might be.   Women work with young girls and men work with young boys.   They need a spiritual parent in their life.  
2. Does your church have a ministry for those who are fatherless?   If you have a burden for this, perhaps God is calling you to start it in your church.  

To learn more about “From Fatherless to Fearless” please go to:

https://www.fromfatherlesstofearless.org/

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

The same can also be said of us in many areas of our lives.  The topic today is sexual purity and our guest makes many comparisons between the journey across the desert and our journey to purity.   

Mike leads his men to victory with four modules, and 10 videos on each module.   He is also available for one-on-one coaching and conversations. 

The Modules are: 

• Identity – to live in victory a man’s identity needs to reflect that.   Many who struggle also struggle with who they believe they are during this stage especially.  
• Habits – you have no doubt heard the statement – show me your habits and I will show you your future.   I applaud Mike and his process for making this a very high priority.  
• Overcoming Obstacles – everything worthwhile has significant challenges to them.   Purity is a high calling for Christian men – out of the “overcoming” we add to our identity, changing our habits, and moving towards living in victory from sexual sin.     
• Freedom is Not Free –in this country, many have gone before us and paid a great price for our freedom.   Many have created a path so we know we can live in victorious purity.   Just as others paved the path to victory, so we have a responsibility to pave the path for those who are coming behind us.  The privilege and the responsibility are ours.  

At MMC we pray for you and your path toward entering into the promised land and possessing it.   It will change your life and the lives of those around you and those who follow you.  Psalm 78 talks about impacting the generations yet to be born.   We pray that is you.  

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. Are you willing to admit to having a purity problem and are you willing to get help?  
2. Are others aware of and supporting you in your journey to purity?   It is only an empty closet that can no longer have power over you.   
3. How are you doing in identifying the four areas as anchor points in your life to keep you from falling back down the mountain?    

Our prayer is that God will give you hope so you know you are not alone and that there is an answer and a direction, no matter where you find yourself.  

To get involved in the Exodus Freedom Journey, please go to:

https://menrestored.com 

To put time on Mike’s calendar to speak with him, go to: 

https://menrestored.com/chat

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Comedian Nazareth   

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

The Bible says “Laughter is good for the soul, spirit, and body”, Proverbs 17:22. Our guest today, Comedian Nazareth is a top-tier comedian, who was born in Nazareth, moved to Kuwait, and then to the US. He has been on tour for comedy along with appearing with the likes of Tim Conway, B.B. King, The Righteous Brothers, The Temptations, and many other notables. He has appeared in over 200 prisons and death row facilities.

While comedy may be the way he communicates to audiences, he is passionate about helping remove the defenses of people to be able to share a message of hope and encouragement. He is a strong proponent of family, Christian, and humanitarian causes.

MMC encourages you today to enjoy Nazareth and hear his story of grace. What we have enjoyed the most is that Nazareth is all about sharing the gospel of hope. His life changed dramatically thanks to Jesus and now he wants to use comedy to share the gospel with those who do not know Christ and to encourage those who do know Christ.

The topic that caught our attention was the idea of using humor with our kids. It helps them enjoy us, and more importantly, it creates an opportunity for them to feel safe and secure within the context of the family. Dads who relax and enjoy the family, have an opportunity to impact their family tremendously.

To get your copy of the book, You Are So Funny Daddy, by comedian Nazareth, go to: nazarethusa.com/shop

To reach out to Comedian Nazareth:
Phone: 877–266–3392
Email: info@nazarethusa.com
Website: nazarethusa.com

Questions to ask yourself:

• How am I doing as a dad in my family? Am I always serious, or am I having fun with my kids?
• What dad joke did I hear lately that I can repeat to my kids?
• We are MMC are praying for you and your family. It is easy to get caught up in drama at work, challenges financially, and issues in the marriage, however, our kids need to see us as an anchor to make the family secure. Humor is a great way to help create that security.

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Blake Mattocks   

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Wouldn’t it be great if all Christian men would start their day sitting and reading God’s Word and contemplating God’s encouragement for each day?  The truth is many men do not typically begin the day sitting and reading.  Here is some very encouraging news.  Six years ago, 365 Christian Men started video recording ~7-minute stories of Hero of the Faith.  These are available free, through an app or the website.  

365 Christian Men is a project built on some basic truths about God and His character. God cares deeply about each man, and He has a specific purpose for every man’s life. God wants to tell His stories through the lives of His men.  These very short stories would be about men who have fought their battles, are overcoming their obstacles, and are using the lessons they’ve learned to help others.

For more than two years, the team has worked hard to see that vision come to life. To make that happen, they were committed to several foundational truths:

1.     History is shaped by how men live their lives.

2.     No man is perfect. Many of the great triumphs in life have come through trials, great fails, setbacks, and heartache.

3.     God can use real-life stories to demonstrate His power, His goodness, and His love for men. He can do tremendous things through a man who recognizes his need for God, is willing to submit to His plan, and will trust Him with his future.

The Executive Director of 365 Christian Men is our guest today.  He is passionate about getting these stories out for all men to be able to read.  In addition to the US, 365 Christian men are now in multiple countries reaching millions of men every week.  In the US it is listed in the Top 10 Podcasts, but far exceeds that internationally.  

Men, MMC highly recommends 365 Christian and encourages you to subscribe however you consume your podcasts.   With a short story every day, followed by a simple but clear challenge on what to do with what you just heard, this will impact your life.   You can listen on your way to work, while you walk or work out, or listen with a group of other men who are as serious about their faith as you are.  

Blessings to Blake Mattocks and 365 Christian Men as you impact men around the world.   

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. Where am I going for daily Biblical truth and Christian inspiration?  
2. When was the last time I heard a story of a Biblical or modern-day hero in the faith and applied truths of their life to my own?
3. How would my faith be different if I would take less than 10 minutes a day for biblical truth and encouragement?  

To connect with Blake or 365 Christian Men, go to:  https://www.365Christianmen.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

1. V. 1–2: Don’t worry about evil doers. They will disappear like grass. The world is in a difficult place. It is easy to spend our energy worrying and complaining about the wrong in the world that takes our focus and energy away from what God asks of us.
2. V. 3: Place your trust in God and do what you know to be right according to the Bible. Then he says to live like you are at home and continue in your faithfulness.
3. V. 4: Find your fulfillment in the things in God and He will give you what you desire.
4. V. 5–6: Be fully committed to the things of God — trust even in the darkness — and He will bring His justice upon the earth.
5. V. 7: Be quiet before God and peacefully wait on Him — no matter what circumstances are around you.
6. V. 8: Don’t give in to anger and let go of vengeance — in due time God promises we will inherit what he has promised for us.

All of us need to know there are anchor points in our lives that help us enjoy the times of sunshine and have victory when the clouds are dark and hang really low. The great news is that God desires His people to live in victory either way.

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

1. My Core
2. My Heart
3. My Relationships
4. My Work
5. My Future

I trust you can take time to enjoy this podcast as Steve is a deep thinker — the complex, simple, creative storyteller — who makes the point through the story and is very practical so you and I can pick up the book and have these much-needed conversations with our sons.

We pray that you are challenged to invest the time with your teenager or young adult sons. It is an investment that will touch the generations that follow.

To contact Steve Graves, go to stephenrgraves.com. He has free weekly articles that you may enjoy.

This podcast focuses on Michelle’s second book entitled:  Let’s Talk: Conversation Starters for Dads and Daughters.  This book came out of a several-month conversation with the dads of daughters who were seeing Michelle in her counseling practice.  What she gave them was terrific conversation tips and starters.  

Michelle starts the book by laying the groundwork – a lot of the value of why this is so important, giving confidence as men to engage, and giving us a roadmap to encourage our daughter to engage with us.  

The next section is a toolbox – Men I mean a BIG TOOLBOX:  this book has 60 (yep, you heard it right) conversation topics, with conversation starters in each topic.  These topics are sectioned into five areas: 

• Lead her to LAUGH
• Lead her to LOVE
• Lead her to LOOK
• Lead her to LAMENT
• Lead her to LISTEN

Keeping in mind all of these have been tested by the fathers of the daughters she met with for several months as they were working through it.  

Men – what if you are thinking it is too late for you?  You are estranged from your daughter, and you believe there is no possible way you can ever be reconciled.    She has a section in this book for you as well.  We are believing and praying that if this describes you, you will read carefully, pray fervently, love patiently, and give God time to work.  

Bless you men, on this extremely important journey.   

You can reach Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield and get all of her work, including many free resources, on her website: www.drmichellewatson.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Our guest today has authored a very practical guide for men to be able to understand the importance of our role in our daughter's life and packed it full of practical “how to’s” that will help us all be better at one of our most important roles in this life.

From Michelle’s past experiences, field of study, and years of clinical work with her clients, not to mention her being a woman, she speaks practical truth to us dads.    She offers Tools that we men can relate to that will help us know what topics we need to think about to be successful as a dad.  

Four main sections walk us men through this wonderful journey.  Things like the Why, the Toolbox, the Heart, and looking inside of ourselves.  

Just some of the tools found in the second section are: 

• Be an active listener
• Help her find her own voice 
• Give her quantity time 
• Lead with vulnerability 
• Learn to read her eyes
• Convince her she is worthy
• Put it in writing 
• And a whole lot more 

If your daughter is young or even if she is not, this is a tool that you will want to have in your tool belt.   Everything I heard from Michelle and see in her book has tremendous application to my relationship with my wife as well.   

Men, I encourage you to take this journey and like everything else you do, be willing to fully commit for the long run, and it will pay generational dividends.  

You can reach Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield and get all of her work, including many free resources, on her website: www.drmichellewatson.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Steve Etner   

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

This podcast is designed to be an encouragement.  While our topic is pornography and all that comes with it, our cure is not “You have got to do better – you know what you are doing is wrong”.   The cure – change your love – love God and worship him supremely, hide His Word in your heart, and have accountability as you are walking through this journey.    God loves you – gave His son to die for you so you could be free in this life and have life everlasting with Him.  

The statistics are that as many as 77% of men and 27% of women struggle with pornography consistently.  We know that when a man struggles with pornography, whether or not it is still a secret, it impacts his relationship with God, his self-image and identity, and of course, it impacts his wife and his children.  The impacts are devastating as some of you know.  Steve’s approach is different than many approaches one might normally hear.  Steve indicates that what one is experiencing is not a sexual problem – it is a worship problem.  Who are we worshipping?   Have we fallen in love with Jesus?  Do we hide His Word in our hearts?  

• The Bible tells us that we should “hide God’s Word in our hearts that we might not sin against Him”  Psalm 119:11   
• I John 5:17 says “All wrongdoing is sin”.  There is no distinction between kinds of sin.  God paid for and forgives them all.  
• Ecclesiastes 7:20 says “There is not a righteous man on the earth who does what is right and never sins”.
• Numbers 32:23 also says, “Be sure your sin will find you out”.   Eventually, every sin is discovered.  

You will be encouraged by Steve’s story.  He is open, honest, and real, and provides hope by sharing his path to victory.    His approach is non-judgmental, hopeful, and very clear on the path to victory.   

I close as Steve started – it is not a sexual addiction problem; it is a worship problem.  

Friend – today be encouraged!  There is hope, help, and direction to get you unstuck as you move forward in victory.  Do not do this alone!   Find the strength to move forward as you trade your struggle for Worship and the Word!! 

You can reach Steve Etner personally (his phone number is listed on his website), or any of his resources:  www.thepuritycoach.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Greg Mayo  

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Over 63 million abortions have been performed in the US alone since 1973. That’s a lot of dads who lost fatherhood.  Over 22 million men have said they regret their abortion part but have no idea where to go for help.  Greg’s passion is helping these men find hope, healing, and a restored relationship with God.   Greg carries this message to churches, pastors, mento health leaders, crisis pregnancy centers, and anywhere where the need for healing is recognized.  Restoring men who have lost fatherhood to abortion will change the church and the world.  

After the publication of Almost Daddy: the Forgotten Story to reach and help men who have lost fatherhood to abortion find hope, healing, and a restored relationship with God, Greg launched a ministry to reach and help men who have experienced his story.  Greg has published over 300 stories in newspapers and magazines and talked to thousands of people about recovery and healing.  Almost Daddy: The Forgotten Story now has a small group study guide.  Greg lives in Central Indiana with his wife of 32 years, Stacey.  Together they have four grown sons and three grandchildren.  

Let’s look at some data:  

• One in five men in this country experience the pain of abortion with their partner.  
• 83% of men in these situations would benefit from help.  
• 79% of these men will seek help if they know where to go for help.  
• The hard statistic is that only 7% of men say would go to a clergy for help.  

What is the message?   God loves each of us regardless of our background, mistakes, and things that may come our way from the choices of others.   There is no situation in which God cannot offer forgiveness.    If we ask for forgiveness – God forgives. Period!!  Many times the challenge is the shame that the enemy throws at us to keep us from living in victory and seeing ourselves as God sees us.   We need each other to help us move forward in victory.   If you find yourself in this situation – reach out for help.  If you do not know who to reach out to, then reach out to our guest: Greg Mayo.  

You can reach Greg and his valuable, caring resources at:  www.gregmayoauthor.com

To reach Greg Mayo to have him speak with you, your men, or for any of his books:   https://almostdaddy.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Jay Payleitner 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

This is one of the most encouraging podcasts we have been privileged to bring forward.  Our guest is very funny as he brings forward tremendous wisdom and truth about our marriage relationship.  You will laugh, poke fun at yourself, and be motivated to be the husband your wife needs.  I recommend his book on this topic and any of his books full of bite-size wisdom.  

About our guest:  

After a decade of writing advertising for airlines and beer, Jay Payleitner followed God’s clear call to serve as a freelance producer for thousands of radio broadcasts for Chuck Colson, Josh McDowell, Fathers.com, Heritage Foundation, and Voice of the Martyrs. Those relationships led to Jay becoming a national speaker and best-selling author of 30+ books including the bestselling 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad, Hooray for Grandparents!, What If God Wrote Your Bucket List? and 52 Things Wives Need from Their Husbands. Jay’s books have been translated into ten languages and sold more than 3/4 million copies. He has been a guest multiple times on The Harvest Show, Chris Fabry Live, and Focus on the Family. Jay and his wife, Rita, live near Chicago, where they raised great five kids, loved on ten foster babies, and are cherishing grandparenthood. 

Here are a few of the points we discuss in this episode: 

1. No one knows your wife better than you.  You know before you say something how she is going to react.  
2. You know what your wife likes.  If you give your wife what she likes, it gives me joy as well.  
3. Nagging Prevention:  Ask your wife if this is okay.  This applies to many situations. 
4. Plan for your entry into the house.  Give some updates on your day – ask if there is anything you need me to do.  
5. Pray you hit bottom – when you do your marriage has the opportunity to become more than it ever would be otherwise.  
6. I think we need to kiss more and kiss better.   Without sex in your mind.  

Men, we want to do well with our wives.   Knowing what they want, and diligently working to meet their needs at the same time has a magical way of meeting our own needs.    

Today – we pray for your marriage and for the generations who follow you well thanks to you men who make it a mission to understand what your wife wants and working to do just that.   

To reach Jay Payleitner to have him speak with your men, or any of his books, including the one we talked through today:  52 Things Wives Want From Their Husband, go to: jaypayleitner.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts, go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Guest:  Dr. Jeff Baxter 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Dr. Jeff Baxter is the NexGen Pastor at Mission Hills Church in Littleton, Colorado.  He is married, the father of three children, and on a mission to ensure his children know and follow Jesus.  He lives what he teaches by growing three adults who love Jesus as well as growing a legacy ministry in his role at Mission Hills Church.  

How do we grow the next generation to grow with Jesus?  We love Jeff’s open honest comment: 

“I share this content to let you know we have stumbled along the path of parenting.  We have not always seen things eye to eye as a couple, nor have we gotten it right with your kids, but we have worked it through and continue to do so.”   

That should make all of us feel better in terms of our mess-ups with our kids.  However, the comment that separates many of us from the others is:  But we have worked it through and continue to do so.  It is imperative as parents that we do not pull back but keep leaning until we somehow get it right.   Be encouraged and do not give up.  

The truth is parenting is hard.  It requires over-communication and creates levels of trust by being open and asking forgiveness when we mess up.   The long-term is the focus to build the foundation for the future, not just the now.  While parenting is difficult, being a kid is also very difficult.  Kids do want us to be their parents (the adults in the room) as they struggle with the emotional and anxiety challenges that our kids face.  It does mean we need to offer a lot of grace as we work through helping our kids move from childhood to adulthood.  

One of the challenges we face as parents is this.  Far too many men leave the parenting to the moms.  Early on the maternal instinct and influence is so critical.  As the kids get older they need our paternal instinct as men.  Yet with the drama that sometimes is a part of adolescence, we men can pull back to avoid being caught up in the drama.   That is the time that both girls and boys need our involvement.  It helps create their sense of identity as they now relate to the paternal parent, rather than the maternal.   Boys need to get their male identity from their fathers.  We dare not pull back in these times.   

Another key point is that we need to communicate love and acceptance for our children based on who they are – not based on their grades and their goals.  We often communicate how proud we are of them when they accomplish something – or make us parents look good.   It is all about the child and finding ways to love them as your child, not for their performance.  

Parents – we want to encourage you to stay strong in your process of raising Godly Adults.  Be real, be authentic, be the adult in the room and keep leaning in.  There is so many opportunities to model God’s kind of grace, while at the same time staying focused at helping our children become Godly adults.  We pray for you and your journey in helping not only impacting your kids, but their kids, and grandkids as well.    

Please reach out to Jeff and get his material to help you as you walk through the journey of moving your children to becoming Godly adults.  

To reach Dr. Jeff Baxter or any of his books, including the one we talked through today: Raising the Next Generation to Grow with Jesus, go to: jeffbaxter.org

For more: Vist https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

How do I get out of the Cage of Unforgiveness

Guest:  Jay Cookingham 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Jay Cookingham in his book entitled Uncaged – Living a Life of Freedom says “Forgiveness has enabled me to live the life God has intended for me, which is so much more than being “saved”. It is a calling to become someone. I can become the husband, the father, the brother, the son, and the man God designed to be because I am forgiven”.

Take time to listen to Jay’s story of God’s grace and man’s depravity.  The great news is that God’s grace is greater than any cage in which you may find yourself.    

Some key points are: 

• The most powerful cages are the ones where you don’t even know you are locked up.    
• The first one uncaged is always the one who forgives. 
• Forgiveness is necessary for freedom. 

What do we know about forgiveness?  Jay lists 14 things about forgiveness that show how important.   Here are just 5 of his key points: 

• Forgiveness is a decision of our will. 
• Forgiveness is not denial. 
• Forgiveness does not mean being a doormat.  
• Forgiveness does not require the one who hurt you to be involved.  
• Forgiveness is not a lack of anger.  
• And so many more… 

Where do we go from here?  

• If you are in denial about your cage – call it what it is so God can help you get out of the cage. 
• Recognize that any shame you carry is a trick of the enemy to keep you caged. 
• Who do I know who will have my back and help me walk through forgiveness? 
• This is not a one-and-done process.  Forgiveness from God to us is daily – forgiveness from us to others is also daily.  

To reach Jay Cookingham or any of his books, including the one we talked through today: Uncaged Living a Life of Freedom resources, go to:  https://jaycookingham.com/books/

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

How do I Handle it?

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Stress symptoms may affect your health, even though you might not know it. You may blame sickness for that annoying headache, sleeping troubles, general unwellness, or lack of focus at work. But stress may be the cause.

A close cousin to stress is worry.  Worry can easily stem from stress.  Stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts, feelings, relationships, and your behavior.  Unrecognized stress or stress not dealt with can lead to health problems as well.  

Let’s recognize that stress is a normal part of life and if managed well can have benefits for you and those around you.   In sports, stress can cause you to focus and become your best.   At work, a hard deadline which can create stress can cause you to put all other things aside to ensure you do your best work.  Financial stress can cause you to evaluate priorities, excess spending, or other ways to bring this back into balance.  Relationship stress can cause you to pause and evaluate what you can do to bring the relationship back into harmony.  

There is no life without stress.  The question is when does stress become unhealthy, out of balance, and create negative known or unknown consequences to which we need to pay attention and make some adjustments?   

Any Google search on stress websites shows you the physical, mental, and behavioral signs of stress, along with the impact on you if stress is left unabated.   As you can imagine, they are not good.   Today,  we want to focus on a few keys to dealing with stress.   

1. Regain your spiritual balance – stress can cause you to focus on the immediate and take you out of your spiritual focus.   Stress is one piece of your life – spend quality time with God, His Word, and His people to get a proper perspective on the stress with which you are dealing.  
2. Exercise – often stress causes us to cut off the healthy flow of exercise.  We simply tell ourselves we don't have time or energy.   Exercise has so many stress-relieving benefits, that it is too numerous to share.   Take time, even for a walk if you can do so. 
3. Eat healthy – Stress causes us to grab food, most of it not healthy – cookies, pastries, fast food, and candy.  Let’s be intentional about grabbing food that will help our mind and body counteract the stress we are experiencing. 
4. Take a respite – it may need to be momentary but some time to get out of the situation that is causing the stress.   A walk, massage, or dinner with a friend, are all things that can help you get some perspective on the stressor in your life.  
5. Get help – reach out to a friend, counselor, pastor, or doctor to ensure you are gaining the perspective and support you need to work your way out of or at least better manage this extreme stress. 

NOW WHAT 

I ask myself as a man of God, a few questions in response to this topic: 

1. How am I dealing with the stress of my life?  Is it healthy stress, or is it creating friction points in another area of my life?    
2. What does my family or a support person say about how I am managing my stress?  
3. To whom can I reach out to get much-needed support?  
4. Do I have the capacity to help a brother who is dealing with stress, knowing how helpful someone has been to me in the past? 

Two verses focus on the intent of our plan to be the men God created us to be: I Corinthians 16:13-14: “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.  Let all that you do, be done in love”. 

1. Be on the Alert:  another version of the Bible says to Be Watchful.  The point of this phrase is that we as men need to have our antennae up and be aware of what is going on around us, specifically looking for opportunities and also being aware of the dangers.   As Christians, we are in danger always, given that Satan desires to sift us.  Luke 22.31
2. Stand Firm in the Faith:  the original language refers to a military phrase that means “holding one's position”.  In the military when you are charged with holding a position – you only have one responsibility.  Hold the position, no matter what.   As a Christian man, we have also been given orders.  The Bible is our source of truth.  Anything that does not uphold these Biblical truths, must be rejected - strongly.  Some of the truths on who God is, who Jesus is, the pathway to heaven, sanctity of life,  marriage of one man and one woman, and responsibilities that God has entrusted to us as the head of our family. 
3. Act Like Men:  The original Greek language describes this phrase as being both mature AND courageous.  Both characteristics are important to spiritual responsibility and to manhood.  

Our role is very similar to the difference between cowboys and shepherds.   To move cattle on the open range you get behind them and drive them where you want to go.   To move sheep, however, to move them you need to have a relationship with them, so they trust you, then you lead them where you want them to go.   

1. Be Strong: Immediately we think of physical strength or maybe a runner who pushes through all of the walls to get to the end of the marathon.   Being strong means at least these two things;  taking responsibility for your actions/decisions and displaying bravery in the face of adversity.  Notice there is no discussion of how we feel in the face of adversity.  Jesus indicated we would face adversity just as He did, however, God will use these times to help strengthen us for the next time of adversity.  James 1:2-3.  
2. Let all You do be Done in Love:  Paul in his letter to the Church at Corinth, understood that in the middle of dynamic, diverse, and problematic situations, love is crucial.   Without Jesus' kind of sacrificial love for our family, friends, or co-workers,  we have not earned the right to share our faith or expect they will be responsive.   It is especially easy for too many men to want to lay down the law with rigid guidelines and simply expect that those around us will fall in line.   Paul said:  and now abide these three, faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Cor 13:13

I ask myself as a man of God, a few questions as response to these verses: 

1. Which one(s) of these five areas am I doing pretty well?  
2. Which one(s) of these five do I need to see improvement?  
3. To whom can I reach out to get much-needed support?  
4. What are other ways to position myself for growth and success in these five areas?   

1.  How do you see yourself in your marketplace? Can you imagine yourself as a missionary?
2. Knowing your character, and your respect in the Marketplace sets you up for an ability to impact your coworkers, what might you need to ask God to help you with so you can make an impact?
3. While we don’t seek it, are you prepared to stand up for Christ even if there is persecution? How will you respond if persecution comes your way?
   You are called to be the Watchman in your workplace. Allow the truth of God to lead you.
   
   Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1 st and 3 rd Thursdays of each month. For additional
   podcasts go to: www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts

Guest:  Jeff Kemp 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Depression is a mental state of low mood and aversion to activity.  It affects more than 280 million people of all ages or about 3.5% of the global population.  Many things can cause forms of depression – bereavement, neglect, abuse, and parenting treatment differing between the siblings.  It can also be the loss of an important chemical in your brain.  Men are vulnerable because men are supposed to be able to be “tough and solve our problems” without any help or admission that they need help.  That is a lie of the enemy and society. 

The great news today is that depression can be dealt with very effectively if you allow yourself to move forward and get the help you need medically, or through a friend or a counselor.  

In today’s episode, Jeff Kemp provides Six Strategies for Overcoming Depression that give you an anchor point to help get you started. 

1. Recognize the symptoms – many times we slip into low places and because it is either how we feel most of the time, or gradually sink, we do not often recognize where we are and how much we are struggling.    Ask a good friend how they think you are doing. Have them be honest. 
2. Overcome the stigma – many people believe they cannot admit or share with anyone how they are feeling due to a stigma they may believe is part of depression.  You would go to the doctor if you were sick and not be afraid to tell people – This can be viewed the same way.  
3. Be Kind to Yourself – many times one of the consequences of feeling this way is beating yourself up.  Have a friend or a professional help you with your inner talk.  This is a great starting place.  
4. Think about your health – the mind and the body are linked.   It will not be long until your body begins to suffer as well as the struggle with depression.   Many times some of the mental symptoms can be lifted by getting physically active.  Physical activity creates hormones that can help change the body's chemicals that lend themselves to a depressed state of mind.  
5. Schedule fun or pleasant activities – plan to do things you know you enjoy and will look forward to doing.  Take a friend and make it even more enjoyable.  
6. Focus on relationships that lift you– conversely, avoid relationships that bring you down. All of us need positive people in our lives that will lift us.  

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Jeremiah 29:11

Two Questions to ask yourself: 

1. What have I done in the past that has given me hope?   Do it again! 
2. What one idea was mentioned today that gives me the most encouragement?   Try it today

To read more of Jeff Kemp’s blogs: www.jeffkempteam.com/blog/

To reach Jeff Kemp:  www.jeffkempteam.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are leased on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts go to:  www.mensministrycatalyst.org

Guest:  Craig Kato 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

A compulsive behavior is an action that a person feels “compelled” or driven to do over and over again. While these compulsive actions may appear to be irrational or pointless, and may even result in negative consequences, the individual experiencing the compulsion feels unable to stop him or herself

In today’s episode, Craig Kato speaks to triggers for acting out on compulsive behaviors and three safeguards to help move forward. 

Triggers that happen before your compulsive behavior: 

1. Loneliness – when home alone or when traveling alone.   
2. Boredom – it is what I do when I have nothing else to do.   
3. Satan convinces men that porn is better than sex outside of marriage for single men or better than an affair for married men.  
4. Alcohol – reduces our ability to control urges.  
5. Stress – porn, and masturbation can reset the brain temporarily and reduce the feeling of stress, however, for a Christian man guilt and shame follow.  
6. Not controlling sexual thoughts.  Testosterone is a powerful hormone.  It is a short trip from thoughts to behavior resulting in habits. 

Way Forward: 

1. Set Boundaries – establish clear guidelines while you are not being tempted.  
2. Establish Hedges – these are barriers to actually going over the edge and stepping into a compulsive behavior.  
3. Create consequences – these are self-imposed consequences should you blow past your barriers and your hedges.  What happens to you when you give in to compulsive behavior?  This is not what happens when you get caught, but what happens when you step over the line.  

Three Questions to ask yourself: 

1. What compulsive behavior is in my life that impacts me negatively?  
2. What boundaries, hedges, and consequences do I need to put in place to get victory today?  
3. Who is in my life who can provide the accountability I need to move forward?  

To reach Craig Cato: CCato@reallifeministries.com

Just a reminder these podcasts are leased on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts go to:  www.mensministrycatalyst.org

As the New Year comes around, we realize we have been here before – just a year ago – and two years ago.  When we look back, for many of us, each year rolls around about the same year over year with very little intentional change.   On this episode, we want to encourage all listeners to determine that in 2025, we will have gotten out of our rut and made some lasting impacts on those important areas of our lives.      

 God put that desire within each of us and does expect that of us.  The Bible says: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” Ecclesiastes 9:10 

Let’s jump into a few principles that can help us stay focused.  

Four Principles to Guide Us Forward: 

1. Commit to the change – Research shows that those who fully commit to the change have much better chances of success than those who never fully commit, but only wish for something different.  
2. Go Public – this becomes positive self-pressure.   Most of us do not want to let people down or embarrass ourselves, so we are hesitant to go public.  The second piece that makes a big difference, is to ensure you have accountability in conjunction with this.  A trusted individual that will check in and see how you are doing.   Men, depending on the topic, it is most likely not you wife.  Men need to hold other men accountable.  
3. Focus on behavior rather than results – most of us who are results-oriented key right in on our results.  Early on in the goal pursuit, there are few results, and can become very discouraging.  Take the long view and stay focused on the daily behavior that moves you forward.  
4. Remove distractions –  What are some of these distractions that can sidetrack us:  busyness, discouragement,  interruptions, other priorities that crash in, perceived shortcuts,  

Now that we understand some of the key principles, what are safegards we will do well to put in place.  

1. Remove temptation – similar to distractions, temptation usually involves something very significant and will pull us off of the road altogether. It is so easy to fall back into behavior or thinking that can drag you back down and make you want to give up or give in.  Keep it clear away from you – have an accountability partner help you with this. 
2. Create a new routine that leads to success – most of us live the majority of our lives on our routines.  You all know the definition of insanity right?  Doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results.  
3. Track the progress – depending on the objective as to how you do that, but find a way to track your activity/progress.  Do not focus on the results, only the journey to your results. 
4. Reward progress – rewards give you the intermediate feeling of success on your way to your larger goal.  The reward is for consistent progress, not results.    
5. If you mess up – give yourself grace on the mess up and get moving again quickly.   Keep in mind that you will mess up – no process is flawless or without holes.   Be kind to yourself and get going again. 

Paul talks about our Christian life as if we are running a race – “Like a person running a race, I try hard to reach the line so that I will receive the prize.”   I would never put our human  goals in the realm with reaching the end of life having run an excellent race towards heaven, or even crawling across the line beaten and bruised, but having finished the Christian life in God’s favor.  Many of the goals we set are often subsets of completing the Christian life God has for us – because they are calling us to excellence in whatever we do.   

Guest: Dr. Austin Knuppe  

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

As Dr. Knuppe thinks about this event as an expert in the region and as a Christian, his prayer moves from politics to grief and lament – how do we mourn with those who mourn, love our neighbor well, whether they are Israeli Jews or Arab Palestinians.    

This is a conflict that is not 5,000 years old, as many think, but the roots of the current conflict are less than 75 years old.  Fundamentally this is not a religious conflict according to Dr. Knuppe, as important as our religious beliefs and identities are.  Dr. Knuppe walks us through many of the inner movements on what is a very small piece of land and strong beliefs and desires 

In reviewing these kinds of situations, Dr. Knuppe talks about three different individuals who are needed to fully understand a conflict process like this one: 

1. Interpreters:  help you understand and create the ability for conversation.  An interpreter is an intermediary between two or more parties.  

Beyond this situation, there are many times an interpreter is needed when any two parties are not connecting.  I have had times in my life when I needed an interpreter to help me navigate a delicate situation.  

1. Translators:  someone who creates text or language that others can read and understand in their language and context.   This one rings true as well even with the same language, but perhaps cultural differences that need to be translated correctly rather than assumed.   
2. Fixers:  This can be comparable to a tour guide, but one that is more directive to help you navigate difficult or misunderstood situations.  They give you insights into situations that you may not understand, help you avoid difficulty by being prepared, or even help get you out of trouble.   

How can pray for the Middle East at this time?  We can pray for the political aspects of the region.  Given what is going on, it is very important to learn how to grieve and lament what is going on as a major prayer supported in scripture is to mourn with those who mourn.  We should also pray for the oppressed, which was the heart of Jesus throughout much of the Gospels.  This is not only for their deliverance but to also pray for justice.   We see this throughout scripture.  

While we are not personally often in a Middle Eastern type of conflict, how can we take what we have learned today and apply the principles to our own lives to better serve our families, friends, or even adversaries to help advance the Kingdom of God?  

Let us consider these three roles that Dr. Knuppe discussed: 

1. Where in your life could you use an interpreter to help you advance the kingdom of God?  Home, marketplace, community, or even church to name a few places to consider.  
2. Where in your life could you use a translator, to help you understand context, culture, or even a more full understanding of what others are hearing from us?
3. Where in your life could you use a fixer to help you avoid deeper problems, understand better conflict on the horizon, or even guide you in a repair process?  
4. Who in your life could fill at least one of these roles to help you move forward in a delicate or difficult relationship today?  

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

The Holidays, specifically Christmas, is one of the great opportunities for you, your family, and friends to find new insight into the kind of love our Heavenly Father has for us.   Since God made Christmas, He then modeled for us by giving us the best gift possible, and without whom we would not have forgiveness of sins, nor eternal life. Given all of that, it only makes sense to do what we can to find new insights, get out of our routine, and see how God might want to refresh you with a new perspective during the holiday season this year.    

Let’s take a look at some ideas through which you can be intentional and see how God wants to Bless you, your family, and those around you.   

1. Give God a special gift just from you to Him.   That gift could be the forgiveness of someone who wronged you.  It could be to commit to spending time alone with God and focus on the Christmas story and what it might mean to you.  
2. Set time to read the Christmas story with your family or friends:  Luke 1:5-56 and includes 2:1-20.  Take time to discuss this story.   How does this story impact you, your family, and any friends you speak with?   
3. Find a group to go Christmas caroling – in your neighborhood, with your Life Group, in an Assisted Living Center,  or just a carol sign with your group.    I know – men caroling??  Whether you can sing or not, those to whom you sing will be blessed and it will in turn bless you and your family.  
4. Give a surprise gift of service to each member of your family, perhaps a neighbor, or members of your Life Group.    Jesus set a great example of service, especially when He washed the feet of His disciples. 
5. Attend a Christmas program together at church or a Christmas concert.  It is important to spend time discussing what you just experienced.  
6. Whatever you do, plan for it, and intentionally make the experience count for you, your family, or your friends.   Whether it is trying to add a new tradition to your holiday habits, focusing on being thankful during the season, taking time to slow down, or expanding your holiday options to enjoy the reason for the season, do it intentionally this year.  This season, like every other season, will be gone before you know it.   

Some things to think about as it pertains to the Holidays: 

1. As you think about your traditional holiday plans and processes, what one thing you are doing now that adds to the spiritual enjoyment of the holidays?  
2. As you review the list we just discussed, what one thing stands out to you that you want to incorporate into your holiday?
3. What is one of these areas that will not work for you this year, but an idea for next year?
4. The key to spiritually enjoying this Holiday season if you to start now.  

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Christian Service Brigade

Guest:  Scott Haima, President

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

“It is better to build strong children than it is to repair broken men.”
— Frederick Douglas

Today we are discussing ways to do just that. Our guest, Scott Haima, the president of Christian Service Brigade (CSB), has committed his life to being involved in helping boys on their journey to manhood. In doing so he also helps men be repaired through their commitment to volunteering to build strong boys.

CSB’s mission is Building Godly Men of Today and Tomorrow. It starts with an understanding that many boys are being left behind in society in general, and school in particular.

Boys think, learn, mature, and play differently than girls. Experts tell us boys require more space and have a shorter attention spans than most girls. The traditional classroom model has proven ineffective in impacting boys and young men and mentoring them toward genuine spiritual formation.

Robert Lewis, in his book called Raising a Modern-Day Knight, talks about not only is the value to the boys, but the men involved, he calls a community of men. As we have talked many times, a boy or a man cannot go through this world alone, but needs a strong community that can encourage, hold accountable and help with raising our sons to become Godly men.

We have spoken in previous episodes about the value of multiple, trusted, Godly adults in the lives of our children. They mature more, expand their horizons, and see the value of Christian values and shared relationships.

Boys need hands-on activity, a lot of fun, and earnest, honest men who keep showing up to make a difference in their lives through planned and direction activities — all the while showing how God is involved in every detail of our lives.

CSB can help your church create a community of men to help you transform your boys to become men. They have very clear roadmaps for the men to get involved to make it easy to volunteer and lead the boys. With all of the resources available, your men can focus on the boys rather than all of the prep. Please take advantage.

Resources:
Scott Haima – President, Christian Service Brigade
To reach Scott Haima: shaima@csbministries.org
To connect with the ministry: https://csbministries.org
Phone number for CSB: 800-815-5573
Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1 st and 3 rd Thursdays of
each month. For additional podcasts or resources go to:
https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

What is the antidote that is required to be able to receive a blessing? The term came from the Old Testament when we see Esau cry out that he also wanted what the eldest son had received from his father. In the Old Testament only the eldest son could receive a blessing.

Then we move to Jesus Christ in the New Testament and what is being said to Him as he rises up out of the water of baptism: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased”. Since we are co-heirs with Jesus, it is now available for all of God’s children. God the Father, through earthly father’s and spiritual fathers, are the conduit of the Heavenly Fathers Blessing. We bless our sons and daughters. We are doing what God does for us — He blesses us as His son, for who He has created us to be, not for what we do or contribute to this world or to the Kingdom.

It is our job in our life to understand what the wound is in our life that causes us to medicate in some manner. In almost every case, it can be tied back to our father’s lack of a blessing. Repeating the question from the first session: What did we have to do to gain our fathers approval? When did your father tell you he was proud of you? Was it what you did, or who they are? We see our earthly father is how we view our Heavenly Father. If our dad picked at us, then we see God as a picky God. If we felt loved for who we are, we can accept God’s love.

Understand the main step is to get to the issue, rather than treating the symptoms.

Smalley and Trent in their research project and resulting book, lay out Five Key Steps to a Meaningful Blessing:

1. Meaningful Touch – a touch that says I love you
2. Spoken Word – words that foster a relationship
3. Attach High Value – assign great value and belief in the person
4. Forsee a Special Future – paint a picture of a special future
5. Commitment to That Future – demonstrate your commitment to that future

Fathers remember you cannot give what you have not received. It is never too late for you and for your children. Even if you have never received it, God still wants to bless you either directly or through a spiritual father.

Resources:

• Dr. Chuck Stecker – Men of Honor, Women of Virtue
• Ralf Garborg – The Family Blessing
• Jay Cookingham – Sonship, Restoring a Man’s Identity
• Smalley and Trent – The Blessing

To reach Chuck Stecker – Chuck@achosengeneration.org    www.achosengeneration.org

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Book:  The Family Blessing  Rolf Garborg   

Sonship: Restoring a Man's Identity by Jay Cookingham | Goodreads

Biblical understanding – what this wound looks like and the impact of not having it.   Jacob stole the blessing of his father.  It says that when Esau heard his fathers word, that Jacob had already stolen the blessing, he cried out with a loud and bitter cry and asked his father to bless him as well.  In the Old Testament, that was not an option.  This was before Jesus comes and now all sons and daughters can be adopted in the family of God and receive not only their fathers blessing with multiple children, but also know they can have the blessing of their heavenly father.  

Even society has identified with the alarming fatherlessness in America, the gender dysphoria that has arisen,  One Ivy League university identifies that one of four students struggle with the sexual identity.  This can all be traced back to the removal of the father from the family and the inability to bless his children due to his own struggles.  The father is responsible for affirming the identity of their children of who you are, and whose you are.   

How do you know if you believe you have received your fathers blessing?  One simple question can help you with that:  What will it take to gain the approval of your father?   Is your value fully attached to what you do (always trying to earn approval) verses who you are (adding value to those around me out of an overflow of identity – not to seek their approval).  

The danger all of this creates is how we see and relate to our earthly father; is how we see and naturally relate to our Heavenly Father.   If we have a significant father wound it is difficult to relate to loving, forgiving and Holy God, who is much different than even the best earthly Father.   We assume that God must be a certain way because my earthly father was that way.  

In our world today we see so much that is anti-manhood and labeled as toxic masculinity.   When men step into our role as a Godly man, we have the opportunity to change the world in which we live.  

MMC encourages you as man, whether you are pastor, leader of men in your church, a businessman, or a man in any role who is considering how God is calling you and wants to use your life, and to commit to being part of a group of men, who will: 

1. Connect with a small group of men who will consistently meet and encourage one another in the faith 
2. Learn to trust these men and become vulnerable with your own version of a Father wound and allow their love for you to help heal this wound
3. Allow these men to unconditionally love you and help you reframe how you see your heavenly father and how you gain your identity by knowing and accepting that you are a love child of your Heavenly Father. 
4. Be accountable to these men as they are to you to not settle for the cultural norms, but be a man who makes a difference, starting with your family.   

Gordon Dalby – The Healing of the Masculine Soul 

To reach Chuck Stecker – Chuck@achosengeneration.org    www.achosengeneration.org

For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Book:  The Healing of the Masculine Soul   Gordon Dalby     Buy this on Amazon

Today we are continuing our conversation we started in the last episode - #42, The Watchman Part One – on some thoughts on solutions to a participant and not letting the vocal, loud, and angry minority group continue to have total freedom to the world around us.   God has called us to make a difference.   

Today we will look at just one area of the chapters and discuss seven things we can do to Stand in the Gap for our Family, that will transform our families towards the biblical family that God desires from us.  

Seven ways we can stand in the gap for our families: 

1. Take on spiritual leadership – take initiative to ensure we are the spiritual leaders of the family and make our family a safe place, a place of spiritual conversation, and a place of allowing God to work in them and for your faith to become their own faith.   
2. Be an encourager – find ways to bless your children with encouragement.  Encourage them for who they are, not just for what they do. 
3. Intercessory prayer – men are often intimidated by prayer.  Again, take initiative, and reach out to God, even if you are not sure exactly what to say or how to say it.  God looks at the heart and desires your passion to stay in the gap and cover them with your prayer.  
4. Model a servant's heart – show that you are not too big to serve, rather than be served.  One of the ways to do that is through being generous in many ways to your family so they know they are important.  Remember God was generous and gave His one and only son so we could have eternal life.  
5. Be transparent and honest – be vulnerable with those around you, especially when you mess up.   Boys can figure out that a man does not always have it together – they will know it even if we don’t admit it.  We become a more important man in their life when we open up and show them how we are wanting to grow. 
6. Problem solving and conflict resolution – it is important to take initiative to resolve issues at home.  In this process we are best to listen to help our family learn how to solve and resolve issues.  That is what we will do as adults – so let’s learn it as 
7. Family Devotions – it gives us the opportunity to discuss how the bible speaks to our daily living.   It is good for mom and dad to share with the kids how they might be applying the bible to their daily living.  Let your kids share how they might apply these principles in their daily lives.  

This is not a behavioral modification process.  This is a biblical transformation that God desires to deliver a transformation through Biblical  men, who step into the role that God has given to us that gets us to heaven and takes as many people with us as possible.   This world is not our home.  We are preparing eternal life.  We are playing for keeps here.  What a privilege we have been given to have an eternal impact.  

Resources: 

To order the book:  The Watchman, go to our website listed below, or go to Amazon and type in the name of the book by Dr. Jim Grassi.  

To connect Men’s Ministry Catalyst:  https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org

New Book Release 

Guest:  Dr. Jim Grassi, Founder, President

Men’s Ministry Catalyst 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

“Many people today are asking the question, “has our society gone mad?”  “Has our culture gone crazy?”  Many people are saying, “I never thought I would see a day like today?”

As a result of the questions above, Dr. Grassi has written a book out of his passion to address such questions, called The Watchman – referring to the Old Testament role outlined for leaders in the church of that day.   This is a clarion call for men to stand in the gap for their families, their pastors, their communities.  We need to keep intruders our of our life.  Begs the question:  Where are godly men today?   

How did a small group of people commander the overall agenda.  This has happened politically, socially, culturally,  in our schools, and in our businesses.  It seems as if you object as a majority against what is a few people with a strong and aggressive work, progressive, liberal agenda, we are labeled as haters, mad and angry group of people.  

This book has been written to speak to the root problem that needs to be addressed.  This book also provides strong, solid, biblical direction which we will address  the second episode of the two-part series.  

There are two things in culture that stand out.  The first is the failure of men to pursue and stand up for Godliness.  The second is that there is a small angry group of people whom we have allowed to define our modern culture.  

With so children growing up without a biological father, with so many children having all female teachers in elementary school, we see that ratio in many of our children’s ministries in churches – so where does a young man have a Christian male role model in their life  so they can see what biblical manhood(Kingdom Men – Tony Evans) is all about?  

We are facing a dangerous time in our culture today.  God has ordained men to be is spiritual leadership in our homes, community, workplace, and our church.   We are called to love those around us and to lead as Christ loved the church and ultimately gave his life to save us. 

In the next episode we will provide some clarity on how to move forward to be one who is active in restoring a prevailing Biblical culture in the world in which we live.   We will focus primarily on the family dynamics as that is where it has to begin.  

We pray that men will step into the God given opportunity to sound the clarion call to move back to biblical manhood and then lead the way.  

Resources: 

To order the book:  The Watchman, go to our website listed below, or go to Amazon and type in the name of the book by Dr. Jim Grassi.  

To reach Dr. Grassi:  lgfJim@frontier.com

To connect Men’s Ministry Catalyst:  https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

95 Network – Guest Dale Sellers   

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

With roughly 300,000 churches in America. Of those 95% have less than 500 attending, 87% have less than 200 attending and 75% of the churches in America have less than 100 attending, pre-pandemic numbers.  The small church is the backbone of America.   

Maybe I will never pastor a large church, but as a small church pastor I thought I might have grown my church by now.   The struggle is real, the challenges are personal, and the outcome essential.   How do we best come along side these wonderful pastors and provide the support they are not getting anywhere else.   

95 Network provides support in the following ways: 

1. Content – weekly podcast, 
2. Connections – resources that can support pastors in nearly every area. 
3. Coaching – 5 Different Coaching Track; leadership, how to advance your message digitally, Discipleship, and more 
4. Consulting – Vision day with the local church  
5. Conferences – all about how to build your local church in many ways, Including a Soul Care for your practical personal life.  

https://www.95Network.org    There are two pop up surveys to provide input an and also to assess where you mage get the greatest benefit from the resources available.    The two surveys are:  Soul Care Essentials and The Healthy Church Assessment.  

This website is so practical to help you as a pastor to help you as you work through the various aspects of your church.   Knowing there is no plan B, the work of the church needs to be effective at growing up believers and reaching those who are not yet part of it.    

We know so many pastors are at their wits end with trying to build a local church. Too many want to find something else to do.  That is why this network of resources is such a vital place to help you as a pastor to find the support, encouragement, and tools you can use to keep moving forward and fulfill your God given calling.  

We love you pastors and want you to find fulfillment in building and reaching the kingdom of God.  Know so many love you, believe in you, and want to encourage you to fulfill your calling.   God made you just you are for such a time as this.   Be encouraged and reach out for help so you can move forward. 

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/

Book:  Stalled: Hope and Help for Pastors who Thought They Would be There by Now,   Dale Sellers 

Item #01 - Stalled: Hope and Help for Pastors Who Thought They'd Be Th – 95Network

Guest: Dr. Sonny Castilleja

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Dr. Sonny Castilleja is a pastor in Longmont, Colorado.  He has been pastoring the same church since 1982.  He took over this church as pastor from his grandfather who started the church several years before him. His story cannot be reasonably put into Show Notes and be effective to guide you through this topic.  Please be sure to listen to his story:  https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/  or wherever you consume your podcasts.     

In 2000, he was involved in a car accident that completely wiped out his memory, both short-term and long-term. Can you imagine having something so important completely taken away from you in an instant?  Add to it that it was not his fault – nothing he did to make this happen.  At that point, you do not know if it is ever coming back and what your future is like as a result.   What would be your reaction?  How would you process this having no idea of the future?   

Added to it, now someone close to you becomes your caretaker and you are completely dependent on them to always do the right thing for you and still take care of themselves.  Talk about a trust journey whether you want to or not.  What is in your life right now, that becomes a complete step of faith for you and not necessarily because you want to take that step?  How are you dealing with it? 

Sonny and Nancy also lost their daughter.  First she turned her back on God, then her marriage, her family and her own body.   She had spent several years “violating” her body, as it has been described.  As a result, after several years, she found herself in the hospital and the doctor indicated she needed to have her complete stomach removed. Unfortunately, she died not too long after she hit that point.  As parents, we entrust our children to God, no matter what age they are.  How is your relationship with God impacted, when your children are in trouble, and there is nothing you can do for them? Do we take on fear, or do we choose faith, no matter the outcome. 

In the middle of all of this, Sonny’s brother had serious health issues and would not get help.  When it finally came to a crisis, and he was able to be committed to the hospital, it was too late and unfortunately he died within a few days. 

Devastating losses will come our way. How do we manage them? 

Pastor Sonny indicated that he developed a biblical belief that God is sovereign -in ultimate control.  Only God can give you peace in the middle of this kind of turmoil. Only God will reveal Himself to us in these devastating times if we let Him. If we know that this world is not all there is, and we are being prepared for Heaven, knowing Jesus came to die to pay for our sins so we can go there, it gives us hope on the toughest day and on the darkest day, to be encouraged in our faith that no matter what happens, God will work it all out.   

Job – the man of faith who had everyone turn on him said:  “The Lord giveth and the Lord takes away, Blessed be the name of the Lord”  Job 1:21 That is the kind of faith I want to have.  

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. Where are you in dealing with losses and disappointments in your life?  Are you blaming, bitter, medicating in some manner, or despondent?    
2. What one lesson did Sonny talk about that was encouraging to you as you are working through a tough spot in your journey?

Just a reminder these podcasts are leased on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

Guest: Pastor John Nunnally 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Welcome to Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast Notes.  You are the reason we exist.  Both Dale and I trust there is an inspirational truth today that will impact your life.   

John Nunnally has been the pastor of Legacy Christian Fellowship for the past eleven years.  Just over a year ago, he took up a new hobby that would allow him to get away from his “day job” for a while and provide some rest by focusing on something so creative and demanding of your complete attention as pottery.  

For simplicity:  we will list some of the steps you go through in the process and lay out some lessons learned.  This is a podcast to which you have to listen to get the full impact of the tremendous truths that Pastor John lays out in this journey.   

Key Verses

Isaiah 64:8 – you are the potter; we are the clay…we are all formed by Your hand. 

Jerimiah 18:2 – I went to the potter's house…and the pot he was shaping was marred in His hands, so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him.  

Philippians 3:13 – one thing I do, forgetting what is behind, and straining towards what is ahead…

Steps to Make Pottery

1. Wedging table – taking a hard block of mud and getting this block into a usable piece of clay.  Take out the memory by applying pressure so that it become moldable, and without hanging on the past shape. Am I willing to be pressed into a different form, not hanging onto the past?  
2. Thrown onto the Wheel – after your shape has changed, you are put into a ball and then thrown with force on the wheel so you can be shaped into the potter’s intended purpose.   When life throws you, you are not a failure nor a victim – let this be used by God to refine you into His intended purpose for you. The clay gets dry fast, so the potter uses a lot of water to keep the clay moldable and fresh. How do I view the tough experiences in my life?  Am I willing to stay yielded to the potter and trust Him with the outcome?  Do I let the water of refreshment from the Holy Spirit keep me in place so the potter can still mold me? 
3. Centering – If the clay is not centered and balanced, it cannot be shaped or formed as it is intended.  Am I centered or out of balance?  
4. Time on the shelf – after the shaping, there is time to cure, get leather hard, to be ready for the next step.   How do I view time on the shelf?  Do I get impatient, and frustrated, and expect that I can be cured on the run?  
5. Fired – the first round shrinks the porousness so it can hold water.   Are we willing to be in the fire so we can be used by God?  Before this first “firing”, we are still so porous we cannot even begin to be used by God.  
6. Fired again – This is the glazing that changes our form from raw clay to porcelain and something usable.   How patient are we to get to this phase?  It is here when people around us can see the work of God in our lives. Then we can start to be used by Him. 

Questions to ask yourself: 

1. Where are you in your “pottery journey”?  How are you adapting to the “the clay has no say in the outcome” journey?  
2. Who do you need around you to ensure you are fully committed to this long-term, character transformation journey that is designed for you?

Just a reminder these podcasts are leased on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.  

“Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast 

Show Notes 

This topic is especially subject to us being passive or active. The topic is ISOLATION.  Some men, slowly drift into isolation without realizing it.  For other men, they make a deliberate choice to isolate themselves and it is important to understand the emotional trap and consequences that isolation gives to us.

WHAT

In his book, Overcoming Barriers Men Face, Dr. Jim Grassi, the founder of Men’s Ministry Catalyst wrote about the barrier of isolation that each man may have to face at some point in his life.  In his book, Jim begins his challenge of overcoming the barrier of isolation by reminding us that throughout all civilizations, the worst level of incarceration for the punishment that you can give someone is solitary confinement, and yet when it happens in a man’s life we often fail to recognize the pending evil that isolation can bring.

Looking back over our lives, the most unproductive and difficult times in our lives are in isolation.  It can come when we may think we are doing the right thing but have moved away from the relationships that may be the most opportune times.

SO WHAT

Dr. Jim Grassi cautions that even though we may be surrounded by people in our roles in business or ministry, we can still be isolated by choosing to keep people at a distance.  He also concedes that solitude for a time is biblical in its practice and Jim mentioned Moses, though tending sheep mostly alone for 40 years before leading the children of Israel out of Egypt. Jesus too, sought solitude at times to prepare his heart for what was to come in his ministry.  So the discipline of solitude is not what Jim, or Scripture for that matter, warns us about. However, we are warned that when solitude turns into isolation it becomes a threat to our personal growth and our relationships with Christ and others.

NOW WHAT

We are reminded of the foundational point that we first must Recognize Who We Are In Christ. We must remember that we are part of God’s family, and individually and collectively we are the body of Christ.  This is where we are to serve others and use our unique gifts to build up the body of Christ.  Second, we must Actively Seek Regular Fellowship as found in Hebrew 10 where we are encouraged to spur one another on toward love and good deeds and not give up meeting together.

Third, Jim reminds men to Love Our Wives as Christ Loves His Church.  You can’t do that in isolation from your wife or the church.  You must be actively engaged to love at that level.  Fourth, we need to Seek Out a Christian mentor and find a Godly man of deep character and then give him access to speak into our life.  Last, we are challenged to Meet Regularly with a Spiritual Partner, someone who wants to grow in Christ.

These key points of application will not guarantee that we will not face the barrier of isolation, but when we do, we will have a way of overcoming isolation and neutralizing its threat in our lives.

Personal Application from this topic:

1. In what ways have you isolated in the past? What drove you to isolate?  What dangers did you experience in isolation?
2. Which of the strategies for preventing and breaking free from isolation spoke to you most in this podcast?  What will you do as a result?
3. Which three of those strategies will you implement to keep from isolating?

*Much of the information in this Podcast was taken from Dr. Jim Grassi’s book, Overcoming Barriers Men Face.  This and other resources can be found at: www.mensministrycatalyst.org/resources

• God uses these dark times to give us hidden treasures we would have

never received otherwise.

• We don’t have to rush out of the dark times because the darkness is

part of our journey.

•  The Almighty God – calls us by name – He knows where we are and

comes to us in these dark times.

• Ultimately: I don’t have to fake being fine. Hard for a man to admit

this to himself, let alone anyone else.

He also shares some basic steps to keep in mind in this darkness. Some of
them are:

• Admit where you are – you cannot go somewhere until you know

where you are.

• Reach back or reach out to those who can offer help.

• Keep going through your routines: church, family life, working out,

etc.

• Remember, you are not the only one – you are not alone.

Questions to ask yourself:

1. If you are going through a dark spot, have you admitted to yourself that
you are where? Only then will you accept the support you need.

2. Do you know someone who is in a dark spot that needs you to reach out
to help them start the walk forward?

3. Do I believe that God knows my name? Do I believe that it is okay to be
in a dark place for now?

To reach Dr. Clarence Shuler, or buy one of his books:
www.clarenceshuler.com For his latest book: Finding Hope in a Dark
Place, go to Amazon.com and type in Finding Hope in a Dark Place.

Just a reminder these podcasts are leased on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. For additional podcasts go to: www.mensministrycatalyst.org

Guest: Candice Crear, Award Winning Author,

Founder of From Fatherless to Fearless.

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes

Fatherlessness is one of the major problems if not the greatest problem in
our world today. Fatherless can be an absent father, neglectful father, or
abusive father. They don’t have to be absent in our life, just absent from
being a positive presence in our lives. They can be neglectful, or even
abusive and still be considered fatherless.

Often our mission in life comes from the pain we have experienced in our
past. Candice embodies this. She was a tremendous achiever in the world
around her to compensate for the hole in her life. God being God, he
allowed the pain of her past life to bring her to Himself that ultimately
resulting in a commitment to leave corporate America to give her life for
those who have similar wounds as she has experienced. Her message is that
our fathers give us our worth and value. As a result, they are extremely
critical in our lives. When our worth goes, our confidence goes, as do the
boundaries we set and what we do to try to fill that hole our entire life.

Candice has developed a tremendous program that works for churches, and
schools and is direct to women who have walked this journey. It is called
the BRIDGE program. The conversations during this 14-week process
become real, raw, and relevant so girls and women can move beyond the
fatherlessness in their life. It requires a hard look at ourselves, owning it,
and being willing to move forward in healing and ultimately freedom from
our past.

One message Candice has – fatherless girls need your support. It is not
adequate to focus on the fathers solely, but also to support those who did
not have a father. We see our Heavenly Father through the lens of how we
experienced our earthly father. Until that perception of a father is changed,

fatherless girls do not know how to fully relate to the perfect Father, God
Himself.

Two Questions to ask yourself:

1. How is your church ministering to the fatherless, specifically fatherless
girls?

2. Who do you know that was fatherless growing up? What might be your
role in their life?

To reach Candice, or buy one of her books:
Email her at: Info@fromfatherlesstofearless.org or go to her website:
https://fromfatherlesstofearless.org

Just a reminder these podcasts are leased on the 1 st and 3 rd Thursdays of each month. For additional podcasts go to: www.mensministrycatalyst.org


About Author Candice Crear:
While many choose to wallow in self-pity when life doesn’t deal them a full deck of
cards, Candice Crear chose to convert her pain into a greater purpose. This multi-award-winning and international best-selling author is committed to leading fatherless women and girls worldwide from the road of adversity to the highway of wholeness. As a coach and an advocate, she challenges them to confront their true story of power and strength, despite anger and rejection. She also gives them the tangible tools they need to move forward. In addition to being the creator of the B.R.I.D.G.E. ™ technique, which helps others turn their pain into purpose, she
works diligently to pour back into her community. Candice is the founder and CEO of From Fatherless to Fearless ® , an organization that empowers and equips fatherless women and girls to conquer their mental, physical, financial, and spiritual well-being. For more information about From Fatherless to Fearless, visit www.fromfatherlesstofearless.org.