Whether we like to admit it or not men need each other. It is in the community of men that we learn what it means to be a man and how to function in society. While this looks different in each culture and generation, it is still true that masculinity bestows masculinity. In every society it takes a company of men raise up other men.
Unfortunately, a meaningful masculine community is rare in today’s society. This is true even among Christians. While there are many reasons for this, the result is that many men are left on their own to figure out their manhood. It is not good for man to be alone!
In a community of men who unconditionally support each other, a man is able to discover his true self and be empowered to live and love more freely. It is here he can bring his deepest questions, questions regarding his identity and purpose, his marriage and sexuality, his spirituality and his role in God’s larger story.
The need for this community does not take away from the importance of marriage and the bond between man and wife. In fact, it can add to it. A man is able to offer more to his marriage when he is refined in the fellowship of a few good men. Men can speak into each other’s lives in a way that women simply cannot. While we still need to hear the voice of Eve, this does not replace the need to hear from other men.
This company of men will have to be fought for time and time again. It will take fierce intentionality to forge these relationships and to deepen the ones we already have. However, the life we gain from these soul fellowships is worth every effort and inconvenience we might endure. We must not go alone!
Men, how are you making these relationships a priority in your life?
