(Photo by Selma Komisky)

Guy Talk: Steps to Rise Up in Battle – Part 1

By Mike Komisky

“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.”

– Proverbs 14:15 (NIV)

One thing I love to do with my wife and daughter is dance. Yes, I’m learning how to dance. It takes one to lead and the other to follow. Believe me, I’m no Toby Mac or Justin Timberlake. But I’ve learned that you can’t learn if you’re afraid to take the first step.

Presently, we live in a society and world that challenges everything a godly Christian man is supposed to be. Chaos and confusion are rampant everywhere. Social injustice and lies of the world are all over our news channels and social media. The Prince of this world (the Enemy) is trying to cause men to shrink back in fear and be intimidated. Many men are stuck and looking for answers. How are we as Christian men supposed to respond? Do we fold up our arms and quit? Do we succumb to frustration and impulsiveness? The answers to these questions are obvious – never! We are in a spiritual war for our homes and relationships. I agree that Romans 13 talks about obeying those who are in authority. Yet, to me, when people try to shut our mouths from worshiping our King and Savior, they have crossed the line! The Bible says, even if we don’t, the very rocks will cry out to glorify God! King Jesus is sounding the trumpet from heaven calling out His men of valor for the Kingdom.

I understand times are stressful and difficult. Many of you have lost jobs with no sure promise of getting them back. Husbands and wives are getting impatient with each other and communication my break down. Men are struggling with porn, alcohol, anger, etc. Many have lost loved ones during this pandemic. The world is tugging at our hearts to follow their agenda. What do we do?

Hopefully, the following guidelines and scriptures will give insight as to how to get out of the pit and take steps to get into the battle.

1. First, we need to examine ourselves (II Corinthians 13: 5). Are we walking the middle ground? Are we trying to live the best of both worlds? There are so many distractions all around us. Each day we need to see if we have an intimate relationship with Jesus or are we just religious? Have we truly surrendered to His will or are we afraid to commit? What’s hindering you? Is it shame, guilt, pride, or mistrust? We must never serve Jesus because we need to prove ourselves to him. That’s religion. True Christianity is being totally in love with a God who always has your best interest at heart. He can be trusted. Lay down and confess your pain and hurts to him.
2. Stop relying on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6). You can’t step out in faith when you are trying to figure everything around you out. Let God have control –   It’s not easy, but trials have a way of either bringing doubt or strengthening your faith. Don’t listen to the lies of the enemy. God is not punishing you or trying to ruin your life. That’s the enemy. Bring your concerns to Jesus. He can handle them. Just don’t look back. God’s promises assure us that He is always for us (Romans 8:31) whether we feel like it or not. He will provide for you.
3. Meditate on God’s word (Psalm 119:97). This is the only offensive weapon of God’s armor. Ask Jesus daily to reveal His truth to you. God’s word transforms the mind, soul, and heart. Get to know Jesus more. We have no excuse not to. His word has wisdom for every situation. That will be how you will learn to hear God’s voice (John 10:27) as He speaks to you in His word.
4. Make a stand! Have moral convictions and live them. Let your life reflect your integrity. Live by what you say. Our family looks to us for consistency in our words and actions. This takes discipline and daily prayer. Don’t let anyone sway you from speaking the truth in love. Just like Joshua 24:15 says, “As for me in my house, we will serve the Lord.” Right now, we are required to wear masks for protection against the COVID-19 virus. But there is a mask we should never wear; it’s one of hypocrisy. Be real! Don’t be a people pleaser…always be a God pleaser instead.

In conclusion, many of us grew up with the world picture of what a man should be. Whether it was “Braveheart,” “Rocky,” etc. we wanted to be like them yet, there is only one example of manhood we should always follow and imitate. That is Jesus Christ. He loved unconditionally and reached out to a dying world. He is still doing it. He was humble, kind, angry at what was truly wrong, served willingly and lived a life of sacrifice. He was a great listener, communicator and full of compassion. My prayer is that we would rise up and get  in the battle. Letting Jesus rule in our lives take steps of faith. Lean on His strength, not your own. Being weak is not wimpy. It’s a blessing in disguise because then Jesus can shine through you. Let’s make our legacy in Christ, not in the world. One day, men, the war will be over. The battle will be worth it spiritually. The pain of hurt and  abuse in your life will be gone. All tears will be wiped away. Until then, like Paul said,  “Leaving the past behind, let’s press forward for the goal of the prize of  the upward call of God in Christ (Philippians 3:14). Be men of courage and glory in the cross of Jesus Christ. God’s doing a great work, so do not miss out! Commitment is total and never partial. Pray for revival in our hearts and the holy spirit to reach the hard hearts of the lost and make them hearts of flesh.