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For the last couple of weeks, I have been able to talk with several of the men in our church who are involved in men’s small study groups.
I talked to a wide range of men in these groups, from some of the leaders of the groups to guys who are just getting started in the men’s groups. I was able to talk with Pastor Dave who has been involved in men’s groups for over 35 years and I talked with Tyler Hardwick who has only been in a men’s group for a few weeks. Many of the men’s groups here at FBC have been going for about 2 years following a Men’s Ministry meeting put together by some of the men of our church a couple years ago.
Most all of the men’s groups are small in number, the largest being 10 men and the smallest, 2 men. They all meet on different days of the week in varying locations, from the church building to men’s homes and even Wendy’s at Pilot Travel Center. The time of day and frequency of meetings even vary to accommodate the men in each group.
There is also a men’s group lead by Pastor Manuel for those who prefer Spanish. The groups use a variety of study materials to help men grow in the Word and strengthen their faith. I was very encouraged in talking to the men in these groups.
The men I talked to all enjoyed the fellowship and friendships they were making in their groups. They also shared how they have enjoyed having other men with whom to share their troubles and praises. What a blessing it is to have men praying for one another.
The men also enjoy the confidentiality of what they share in their groups. Many of the men shared how the growth they have experienced has blessed their marriages and families.
In a couple cases, men have their sons, who are young men themselves, in the same group. These men get to enjoy studying, sharing, and growing in the Lord with their sons.
The leaders of these groups all have a genuine passion to reach men where they are and help them grow closer to the Lord.
They all enjoy teaching the word and sharing their experiences and encourage the men to share also. We can all help one another grow through the Word, our faith, and prayer.
I asked the men what they would say to encourage someone to join a men’s group. Here are a few of the responses. “Come and see who we are and what we are about. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose.” “Come as you are, grow in the Lord, and help each other.” “It has helped change me as a husband and a father.” “It is an investment in your faith.” “Jesus and Paul both enjoyed and needed time with men, and we can enjoy the benefits, also.”
In closing, I would like to encourage you to plug into a men’s group. Currently we are starting at least one new men’s group.
We are looking for men interested in joining a men’s group, and men interested in leading future groups. If you have any questions, contact Steve Leyba, Aaron Losolla, Pastor Gene, or Shawn Rodgers.
Matthew 18:20: For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.
