Are you dusty from His sandals?

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Joshua 1:9

Toxic?

The biblical call to manhood is timeless. It’s as old as the garden. But it is not a political stance, cultural trend, or agenda for self-improvement. It is not measured by hours in the gym, a balance in your bank account, what’s parked in your garage, or the achievements hanging on your wall. It is a divine plan of redemption that yields humility, courage, and sacrifice. Contrary to popular belief, masculinity is not toxic; sin is.

Sent to Declare

Difficulty defining what a woman is highlights the lengths we have drifted away from the Word and into Satan’s territory. Confusion over genders, abortion on demand, self-affirming care, and a lack of biblical alignment creates the chaos of a devilish playground. A.W. Tozer states, “The Christian is not sent to argue or persuade, nor is he sent to prove or demonstrate; he is sent to declare.” When we do this, God is responsible for the outcome.

Pray vs. Procrastinate

Let’s be clear: some things don’t need prayer; they need discipline. God has plainly instructed us what to do—we’re just procrastinating. MD5 underscores this viewpoint.

Points to consider: Be strong and of good courage! Unforsaken.org reminds us, “Strength without submission is rebellion. Obedience without courage is cowardice. But when both combine, a man stands unshakable.”

Redeemed Masculinity

Proving yourself as a man is more about devotion and maturing in the faith and less about dominance, pride, and power. How are we doing with fearing God more than failure? The definition of biblical manhood hasn’t changed. Redeemed masculinity has always followed the template of Christ.

Are we Intentional?

In a culture that is decaying at record speed, do our neighbors, coworkers, or huntin’ buddies observe any differences in our lifestyle choices? Are we intentional in looking for ways to model what we say we believe? Do our wives and kids observe and experience the transformation in our lives that puts protection, devotion, and leadership at the centerpiece of our families? Our charge is clear. Do those we influence see in us the markers for biblical manhood? (Power in submission and devotion in obedience, to name a few.)

Are you Getting Dusty?

Godly men are secure in their devotion to the Father’s mission and active in demonstrating who gets the glory… Jesus! They forgive, promote unity, practice patience, seek wise counsel, fulfill responsibilities, and provide calmness in their leading. They choose to be men who follow Jesus so closely that the dust from His sandals lands on them.

A Better Aspiration

The journey is bumpy, confusing, and challenging. Satan’s game plan is to shift us not to evil, but to self-rule, where we intend to reign. Garden lessons are still in play. To be effective and consistent, we must be spiritually alert, prayed up, and led by the Spirit.

The love that Christ exhibited for the church was sacrificial, loyal, and proven. Success in biblical manhood is a direct command, not a vague suggestion.

Let us be bold and steadfast in meeting the challenge. We simply can’t rest in being a better version of ourselves; we must aspire to be a reflection of Him.

Mark Stitch

MD5 Facilitator