15 Bible Verses About Identity

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One of the most important questions to answer accurately in your lifetime is “Who am I?” The world will compel you to rank yourself among others. You’ll also get subjective opinions from family, friends, acquaintances and even yourself. But what does the Bible say about identity? What bible verses about identity is there ?

The fundamental nature of who you are is objective and unchanging, rooted in the most solid foundation: who God is. 

Identity In The Bible

What Are Bible Verses About Identity?

Here are 3 important verses to start with.

1. “Your works are wonderful I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!” (Psalm 139:14-17).

Start from your own beginning. It’s easy to look at a majestic mountain range and see the beauty of God’s craftsmanship. But sometimes we forget that we, too, are among God’s beautiful works. And not just humanity in general, but you. Our God is not a distant God. He has intimate knowledge of you, has plans for you and knows everything that will happen in your life.

2. “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:4-8).

Have you ever felt disqualified from being loved by God? This verse tells us no amount of background, trauma, failure or sin is greater than God’s limitless grace. We are chosen, rescued, forgiven, eternally saved, changed and guaranteed a secure future in His family and Kingdom. You don’t have to do anything to earn your place—except to believe! In fact, you can’t take any credit because God does it all. Surrendering to this truth, your true identity in Christ, will bring you the greatest assurance and peace.

3. “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:18).

Throughout the New Testament, God is called our father and believers are referred to as his children, or adopted sons and daughters. What does that mean? For one, we’re meant to model our relationship to God after Jesus, the son, who exemplified the perfect relationship to God, the father. It’s a relationship of total trust, caring, closeness and devotion. And, secondly, we enjoy all the benefits of an “heir” of God (Romans 8, Galatians 4), receiving the inheritance of God’s love, grace and eternal life.

 

Bible Verses That Reveal Our Identity in Christ

Ready to dive deeper? Here are more bible verses about identity:

4. ” Created in God’s image and likeness ” (Genesis 1:26-27, 5:1-2).

5. ” Named and commissioned ” (Judges 6:12).

6. ” Jesus’ friend ” (John 15:15).

7. ” United with the Lord ” (1 Corinthians 6:17).

8. ” Purchased at a high price and God’s possession ” (1 Corinthians 12:27).

9. ” Credited with & made righteous with Jesus’ righteousness ” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

10.”  In direct connection with God ” (Ephesians 2:18).

11. ” Complete in Christ ” (Colossians 2:10).

12. ” Inseparable from God’s love ” (Romans 8:35-39).

13. ” Destined and guaranteed to be conformed to Christ’s Image ” (Romans 8:29).

14. ” A citizen of heaven ” (Philippians 3:20).

15. ” An ambassador for Christ ” (2 Corinthians 5:20).

 

In a world that often pressures us to define ourselves by fleeting standards and shifting opinions, the Bible offers a grounding and unchanging truth about our identity. They remind us that God defines our worth as infinite and that our purpose is of cosmic importance. As you read study these bible verses about identity, let their truths replace any misconceptions about yourself or God and give you the courage to be real with your wife, your friends and yourself.

 

Want to unlock deep friendship? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today. 

 

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Understanding What is Gods Will for My Life

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One of the most profound questions Christians often ask is, “What is Gods will for my life?” This question reflects a deep desire to align one’s life with God’s purpose and to make decisions that honor Him. Understanding God’s will can sometimes seem overwhelming, but the Bible provides clear guidance on how we can discern His plan for our lives.

By seeking God’s purpose, following biblical principles, and living in alignment with His will, we can navigate life’s decisions with confidence and peace.

Gods Will For My Life

Finding God’s Purpose

Finding God’s purpose for your life begins with a heart that is open and willing to seek His guidance. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) offers foundational advice: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” This passage encourages believers to place their trust in God rather than relying solely on their own judgment. By surrendering our plans to God, we invite Him to reveal His purpose for our lives.

To find God’s purpose, consider these steps:

  • Prayer: Regularly communicate with God, asking for clarity and direction in your life.
  • Scripture Study: Immerse yourself in God’s Word, where He reveals His character and will for His people.
  • Reflection: Take time to reflect on your passions, talents, and the opportunities God has placed before you. Often, God’s purpose aligns with the unique gifts and desires He has given you.

By following these steps, you can begin to uncover God’s purpose and direction for your life, leading to a more intentional and fulfilling journey.

Biblical Guidance for Life Decisions

The Bible is a valuable resource for making life decisions that align with God’s will. It offers timeless wisdom and practical advice that can guide us through various circumstances. Psalm 119:105 (NLT) reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” This verse highlights the role of Scripture in illuminating the path God wants us to take.

When faced with decisions, it’s important to seek biblical guidance and allow the Holy Spirit to lead. James 1:5 (NLT) encourages us, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” God is eager to provide wisdom to those who seek it, helping us make choices that are in line with His will.

Additionally, seeking counsel from mature Christians can be beneficial. Proverbs 15:22 (NLT) states, “Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.” By surrounding yourself with godly mentors and friends, you can gain insight and support as you navigate life’s decisions and figure out the question ” What is Gods Will for My Life? “.

Living in God’s Will

Living in God’s will involves more than just making the right decisions—it’s about cultivating a lifestyle that consistently honors Him. This means aligning your actions, attitudes, and desires with God’s commands and purposes. Romans 12:2 (NLT) urges us, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Living in God’s will requires a continual renewal of the mind, where we allow God’s truth to shape our thoughts and guide our actions. It’s a daily commitment to seek His kingdom first and to trust that His plans for us are good.

By embracing this mindset, you can experience the peace and fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with God’s will. His plans may not always be easy, but they are always purposeful, leading us to a life that glorifies Him.

 

Ready to discover God’s will for your life? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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Key Traits of Christian Leaders

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Christian leadership is more than just holding a position of authority; it’s about embodying the qualities and principles that reflect Christ’s example. True Christian leaders are called to lead with faith, integrity, and a heart for service, guiding others in a way that honors God and promotes spiritual growth. But what are the key traits that define a Christian leader?

By exploring biblical leadership qualities and principles, we can gain a deeper understanding of what it means to lead effectively in a way that aligns with God’s will.

Key Traits Of Christian Leaders

Biblical Leadership Qualities

The Bible provides a clear framework for what it means to be a godly leader. Among the most important qualities are humility, wisdom, and a servant’s heart. In Philippians 2:3-4 (NLT), Paul instructs us, “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” Humility is essential for leaders who wish to guide others with a spirit of service rather than self-promotion.

Another key quality is wisdom, which allows leaders to make decisions that are just and aligned with God’s truth. James 1:5 (NLT) encourages leaders to seek wisdom from God: “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” A wise leader discerns God’s will and acts accordingly, leading others with clarity and conviction.

Finally, a servant’s heart is perhaps the most defining trait of a Christian leader. Jesus Himself modeled this when He washed His disciples’ feet, demonstrating that true leadership is about serving others. Mark 10:45 (NLT) reminds us, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This principle of servant leadership is central to the Christian approach to leading others.

Christian Leadership Principles

Building on these qualities, Christian leadership is guided by several core principles that reflect the teachings of Christ. These principles include:

  • Leading by Example: Christian leaders are called to live out the values they preach, setting a positive example for others to follow. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NLT), “And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.”
  • Encouraging and Uplifting Others: A Christian leader supports and encourages their followers, helping them to grow in their faith and fulfill their potential. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NLT) advises, “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
  • Maintaining Integrity: Integrity is crucial for Christian leaders, as it reflects their commitment to living a life that honors God. Proverbs 10:9 (NLT) states, “People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed.”

These principles guide Christian leaders in their daily actions, ensuring that their leadership is rooted in faith and aligned with biblical teachings.

Leading with Faith and Integrity

Leading with faith and integrity means prioritizing God’s will above all else. A Christian leader does not rely solely on their own strength or wisdom but seeks God’s guidance in every decision. This approach to leadership ensures that their actions and decisions are consistent with the teachings of Scripture and reflect the character of Christ.

Faithful leadership also involves a deep commitment to integrity. This means being honest, transparent, and trustworthy in all dealings, both in public and in private. When leaders maintain integrity, they build trust with those they lead and create an environment where others feel safe and valued.

Moreover, leading with faith requires a constant connection to God through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture. It’s through these spiritual disciplines that leaders can remain grounded in their faith and receive the strength they need to guide others effectively.

 

Want to cultivate these leadership qualities in your life? Discover practical tools for Christian leadership with the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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Directed Passion For Christ

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Passion is a powerful force that drives us to pursue our goals with determination and enthusiasm. But when directed towards Christ, passion becomes a purposeful pursuit that aligns our desires with God’s will. Directed passion for Christ means living a life that is fully committed to glorifying God, using our energy, talents, and resources to further His kingdom. It’s about channeling our zeal into actions that reflect our faith and love for God.

Directed Passion For Christ

Purposeful Passion in Faith

Having a directed passion for Christ involves more than just enthusiasm; it’s about purposefully aligning our passions with God’s will. This kind of passion is rooted in faith, where our desire to serve and honor God becomes the driving force behind our actions. When our passion is grounded in faith, it leads us to live out our purpose as followers of Christ, impacting the world around us.

Romans 12:11 encourages believers to “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” This verse highlights the importance of maintaining a passionate commitment to God’s work. Passion that is directed by faith compels us to serve others, spread the Gospel, and live out our calling with dedication and joy.

Biblical Passion and Purpose

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals whose passion for God led them to fulfill their divine purpose. One of the most notable examples is the Apostle Paul, whose fervor for spreading the Gospel took him on missionary journeys across the ancient world. Paul’s passion was not driven by personal ambition but by a deep commitment to Christ and a desire to see others come to faith.

In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul writes, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Paul’s directed passion for Christ propelled him to press on toward his God-given purpose, despite challenges and setbacks.

Similarly, when our passion is directed toward Christ, it gives us the strength and motivation to pursue our God-given purpose with perseverance. This purposeful passion enables us to overcome obstacles, stay focused on our spiritual goals, and ultimately fulfill the calling that God has placed on our lives.

Passion for God

A directed passion for Christ is deeply intertwined with our love for God. When we are passionate about God, it reflects in our actions, our relationships, and our everyday lives. This passion drives us to seek God more earnestly, to worship Him with all our hearts, and to live in a way that honors Him.

Psalm 63:1 expresses the psalmist’s deep longing for God: “You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.” This verse captures the essence of directed passion—a longing for God that consumes our thoughts and actions, compelling us to pursue Him above all else.

Living with directed passion for Christ means allowing our love for God to shape every aspect of our lives. It’s about being intentional in our faith, consistently choosing to prioritize our relationship with God, and letting that passion guide our decisions and actions.

 

Want to channel your passion for Christ effectively? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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10 Questions that Foster Spiritual Growth

Deep down, every guy who follows Jesus wants to have meaningful conversations with their friends that bring up the spiritual aspects of our lives. But it can be hard to work past some of the defenses we put up as men. We don’t want to appear vulnerable or that we don’t know something. Over the years of helping guys strengthen their relationship with God, I’ve found that spiritual questions can also be practical and straightforward. These are the best entries into deep conversations that inspire real reflection and catalyze spiritual growth.

Before I get into specific spiritual questions to ask a guy, I want to note that the best ones are open-ended, meaning you’re not expecting a certain answer. They can take it anywhere they like, which helps you get to know them and their spiritual journeys.

10 Questions Spiritual Growth

1. Who is the first person who told you about God?

This is a great question to start with because it gets the ball rolling with a question that’s easy to answer, like “Mom,” “Dad,” or “my school friend.” But it’s something that many people don’t think of too often. It can also be helpful for someone with father wounds to start to detach his mom or dad’s version of God from who He really is. 

2. What does your spiritual journey look like?

Everyone has a unique journey to God. Each guy’s story gives you the context for his spiritual growth, whether it touches on childhood experiences, rock bottoms or other pivotal moments that made them reach out to God. It’s also a great chance to learn from his struggles, triumphs and the lessons he’s had along the way.

3. Do you think God has revealed your calling to you yet?

This is a great way to get guys thinking about God’s will for their life, as well as our greater sense of purpose. Plus, it allows you to learn about their passions, goals and dreams, giving you the opportunity to give them insight into ways they can use them to glorify God. We learn these things through asking questions for spiritual growth.

4. Is there anything you feel is blocking your spiritual growth?

Dealing with an apparent obstacle in someone’s spiritual journey can lead to the most transformational experiences. It could be something the guy wants to get off his chest or something that’s confusing him. Whatever it is, talking it out can help everyone in the conversation find new ways to grow spiritually.

5. What do you do consistently that helps you stay close to God?

Habits are the unsung heroes of a spiritual journey. Whether it’s prayer, scripture, worship, or little reminders, sharing these practices can inspire all parties to maintain their discipline and improve their spiritual growth.

6. How are you growing spiritually in your work or daily life?

It can be hard to conceptualize our spiritual growth in our everyday lives. This is a great invitation to see every aspect of life as an opportunity to get closer to God. 

7. Do you feel the presence of God in your life?

Feeling God’s presence is a profound experience. This question can help a guy gauge his awareness of God’s closeness or remind him of moments when he’s felt particularly connected to God, which can help him keep going faithfully if He hasn’t felt God’s presence lately. 

8. What is your prayer life like?

God wants us to communicate with Him as openly and often as possible. Whether the guy you’re talking to has a prayer routine or more spontaneous conversations with God, understanding his approach can deepen the conversation about connecting with God.

9. How do you think God feels about you?

It’s an important reminder of how God really feels about us, as well as His grace and forgiveness. It can be a powerful moment to affirm God’s unconditional love and challenge any misconceptions he might hold.

10. Why do you think that is?

This can be a compelling way to follow up on any one of the questions above, inviting guys to dig into what they really think. It encourages deeper reflection and can help us put things together we’ve never realized before. This can lead to healing conversations and a more profound understanding of our relationship with God.

These questions for spiritual growth provide a framework for exploring faith in a way that’s both insightful and supportive. By creating an open and honest dialogue, we can help each other grow closer to God and strengthen our spiritual journeys. Don’t shy away from these conversations. They have the power to transform lives and deepen your connection with your friends!

 

Ready to have these meaningful conversations? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship now.

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How To Live Like Jesus Everyday

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What would Jesus do? It’s one of the most memorized and important questions a person can ask themselves when faced with a difficult situation. But as Christians mature in their spiritual journey, they realize that doing what Jesus would do starts with learning how to live like Jesus.

The answers will teach you the wisdom for the challenges that face you and unlock the meaning of life. Asking yourself how to live like Jesus everyday is a life-long journey. Here are five things that men like you can do to follow Jesus’s perfect example.

How to Live Like Jesus Everyday—5 Steps You Can Take Today

1. Receive from God

After Jesus was baptized, God said, “This is my son, who I love, with him I am well pleased.” Jesus relied on this proclamation to ignore Satan’s temptations, heal the sick, face and defeat death. 

It begins the same for us. To live like Jesus, we make a radical, liberating change. We start to let go of our ego and shift the leadership of life from us to Father God. We stop assuming we are the brightest or the smartest. We remind ourselves that God loves us, likes us and desires better for us than we can craft for ourselves.

My friend Pat Lencioni, a foremost business teamwork expert, told me, “Roll out of bed, land on your knees and talk to God first thing every morning. I thank Him and acknowledge Him as Lord before I do anything else.”

 

2. Reject the ways of the world

His message was so radical that the religious leaders teamed up with the regime of the oppressive Romans to have him killed. 

Jesus challenged the cultural norms and laws. In Mark 2:23-27, Jesus and His disciples showed the Pharisees that feeding those “hungry and in need” was more important than following the law. Later in Mark, He drove out the merchants and flipped the tables of money changers in the temple. He told the rich man who valued His earthly possessions that He had to give away everything to follow Jesus. 

We, too, must stand up to the injustices we see around us and pursue treasure—in heaven, not in life.  

 

3. Face challenges head-on

Jesus came down, knowing he’d be arrested, falsely accused, falsely tried, beaten, whipped and crucified. When He was, Jesus asked God to forgive the soldiers crucifying Him and the religious leaders who orchestrated it. He made the ultimate sacrifice to save humanity. 

When we learn how to live like Jesus, we put our pride and selfish ways to death, so we can solve conflicts and heal divisions. We find the courage to find a solution to the challenge, instead of being a victim or accuser. We apologize and forgive first. We’re humble and strong enough to sacrifice our time, energy and resources for others.

 

4. Stick up for the weak

Jesus loved to look for, find and rescue the lost sheep, the lost coin, the lost son. He said the last shall be first, the humble will be honored and those forgiven will love much.

He applied it in real life, too. When a couple dozen religious lawyers and moralistic men shoved a woman caught in adultery in front of Jesus to stone her. They were ready to apply the Jewish Law’s death penalty for her sin (what about the man’s?). Jesus scribbled in the dirt and threw them the question that sent them packing. “If anyone has never sinned, feel free to throw the first stone.”

Let’s leave the judging to God and look at the logs in our own eyes. As men, we should live like Jesus, protecting the weak and setting them free to live better. 

5. Intentionally gather and serve your family and friends

Jesus built deep friendships, setting up meals, walks, silent times in the hills and a special farewell dinner the evening before his arrest. Before eating, Jesus shocked His friends with a radical move. He stepped back from His spot at the center of the table and took a bowl of water and towel to wash their dirty feet. 

He loved and led in the most true and full way. He served. Men who are real and good, authentic and intimate. They make efforts to gather, serve and bless their family. They make friendship a priority with sacrifice, service and memorable demonstrations of love. 

Make dinner and gatherings a priority in your family and community. Be an intentional, committed friend. Plan a meal. Step down to serve. Share a toast. Pray a prayer. 

 

Want to meet with a group of guys and learn how to live like Jesus everyday? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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How To Surrender To God

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We all strive for certainty in our lives. Beginning with aspirations, we chart our course, seeking command over our destinies. And guys especially don’t like to admit we’re lost and need help. That stereotype of the man who doesn’t ask for directions exists for a reason. (I, for one, am glad we have GPS on our phones now). Men are also trained never to give up. Never surrender. Of course, persistence and bravery are important traits, but that masculine emphasis works against us when surrendering to God. 

With God, surrendering is good. Learn how to surrender your life to God, through knowing Him, committing yourself to Him and making room for Him in your life. 

Learn How to Surrender to God

1. Realize that God has a better way

It’s not easy to surrender your identity, dreams, ambitions and control of your life. The world would tell you that this is all you have. As Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” 

If you’re a Christian, you’ve realized that God has given you a better way. Your self-worth doesn’t have to be tied to whether you achieve everything you dreamt up. You don’t have to worry about dying because Jesus sacrificed Himself to give you everlasting life. 

2. Commit your life to Christ

Jesus doesn’t sugarcoat it. If you want to follow His better way, you have to surrender to Him. In Luke 9:23, He says, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?”

If you haven’t committed yourself to Christ yet, I encourage you to do that today. It will change your life. But the surrendering isn’t over for us believers, just because we’ve committed ourselves to Christ. We must remember to “deny ourselves” daily, surrendering what we want for what really matters. 

3. Ask God what you need to surrender to Him

This is a really practical exercise to regularly bring into your prayer time with Jesus—because it’s easy to say and think you’ve surrendered yourself to God without realizing there are things you’re holding onto. Here’s a totally, non-exhaustive list of things that you (and I) might need help surrendering to God. 

  • Identity and ego
  • Bitterness, jealousy, grudges or regret
  • Your dreams
  • Trust in yourself
  • The lies you tell yourself 
  • Need for control 
  • Your sin 
  • You pride

Take this list and pray to God, asking Him to fill you with the Holy Spirit, whose transformative power will help you let go. You’ll be amazed. Sometimes what seems to be the most trivial things can be the clues to pride and need for control.

4. Receive blessings from God

Surrender is not about losing. It’s giving up everything to make room for God to make your life full of meaning and joy. As Paul explains in Galatians 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

When you surrender, God can work through you, bringing the fruits of the spirit to your life—better relationships and peace. You receive your true identity as a son of God, eliminating the pressure to achieve dreams or be successful. You realize that surrendering is not a vulnerable act. It’s the safest thing you can do. 

5. Look to Jesus who surrendered everything to God

Whenever you need support, you can look at the perfect example that Jesus laid out for us during His time as a man on earth. Jesus surrendered His status to God as Philippians 2:6-7 describes: “Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant being made in human likeness.” 

In the end, He surrendered everything. As verse 8 concludes. “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” You know the best part? You don’t have to simply study His life and hope. You can pray to Jesus every day and He offers guidance and wisdom as you surrender to God. 

 

Start finding your identity in Christ. It can start with you and a 2-3 deep friends. Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship to learn how.

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How to Know God’s Will for Your Life

When I was a senior in college, I thought I had it all figured out. I was the starting quarterback, I was popular, and I had a chance of making an NFL team. In the weeks before graduating, I was partying and drinking. I became aware that I was lost and didn’t know God’s will yet. I didn’t even know how to know God’s will for your life. But God did. 

5 Steps: How to Know God’s Will for Your Life

1. Surrender to God’s Plan

All my life, I had been focused on my own success because I thought it determined my worth. If I made it into the league, then I would be successful. But I heard God telling me He had a better plan for my life. In an effort to grow spiritually, I surrendered and made a commitment to follow His direction.

 

2. Deepen Your Relationship with God As Your Father

After you hear God’s call and surrender to Him, you have to know Him before you can learn how to know God’s will for your life. Many have to unlearn the things people tell them about God that are clouding their understanding of Him. Like any true friendship, you have to spend time with them to truly know who they are. And once you get to know God, you understand that this is your purpose, ultimately, and all the ambitions you dreamed up don’t have any effect on who you are as God’s son. Realizing this makes it possible to learn how to know God’s will for your life. 

 

3. Listen to God’s Direction

As you begin to know God and Jesus as your father, you are able to hear His voice. Give yourself time every day to ask God what His will is for your life. Sometimes, it will come to you clearly. Other times, it will come from wise and pertinent advice from a friend. Stay open and vigilant to receive God’s call for your life.

 

4. Use Your God-Given Strengths and Talents For Him

Don’t be surprised if the calling that God has laid out for your life doesn’t match others. He doesn’t call everyone to be pastors or missionaries. Usually, God finds a way to use your strengths for His will. Think about what you’re good at and look for how you can apply it to serve others, serve a need in your community or furthering the Kingdom of God.

 

5. Trust in God and His timing

Do you ever feel like you are just banging your head against the wall, waiting for a breakthrough on how to know God’s will for your life? Remember His assurances for you. In Jeremiah 29:11, he says, “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I also recommend keeping a journal. Sometimes, you’ll realize that God has been showing you His will for your life in ways that you hadn’t understood until looking back. 

Seek God

I’ve found that having deep friends and a tight group of guys who all follow Jesus and are committed to getting close to Him together is so important in learning how to know God’s will for your life. I’ve received countless insights that helped me know where my strengths fit in God’s plan while helping others do the same.

 

Download the Playbook For Level 5 Friendship to invite 2-3 friends into deeper friendship and seek God’s Will for each of your lives.

 

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Why Men Need Friendship With Jesus

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The Bible tells us the many ways God relates to us. Some emphasize God as a Creator, others as a protector or a heavenly Father. God also wants to be your friend. Men need friendship with Jesus in order to become the men, fathers and husbands He created them to be.

 

First, I want to paint to paint a picture of a friend. It might seem a little silly, but the Merriam-Webster definition feels a little flat to me. It calls a friend “a person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.”

 

Sure, that might be some “friends,” but it doesn’t get to the heart of what I’m talking about, or what God wants. I’m talking about a true friend. Someone you can be yourself around, someone who’s always there for you, someone who you share everything with as you go through life together. 

 

3 Reasons Why You Need Friendship with Jesus

1. God desires friendship with you.

How much does God want a friendship with you? He did the unthinkable to make it happen. He sent his son Jesus to earth as a man who sacrificed His life to restore humanity’s personal relationship with God—no longer needing a sacrifice or priest to speak on our behalf. We please God when we do what He desires and pursue a friendship with Jesus. 

 

2. Friendship with Jesus creates accountability.

A great friend will help you raise your standard of manhood by telling when you’re out of line and supporting you to become a better person. It’s the same for friends of Jesus. In John 15:4, Jesus tells his disciples, “You are my friends if you do what I command you.” To be a true friend of Jesus, we have to raise our game and follow the example He set—and apologize when we don’t meet it. When we do, Jesus is there to forgive, instruct and support. Think of Peter. Even after he forsook Jesus three times, he was reconciled with Him and was “the rock” Jesus built the church on. 

 

3. Friendship with Jesus adds SO much to our lives.

It’s impossible to overstate its effects. Jesus is the perfect friend, providing love, comfort, assurances and encouragement. He treats us like a friend by teaching and showing us things about spiritual life. In John 15:15, He says, “I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.” When you are friends with Jesus, your earthly ambitions fall away. You’ll start to feel secure and at peace, while Jesus shows you how to use your talents and abilities to further His Kingdom. 

 

How to Build Friendship With Jesus

  • Spend time with Jesus one-on-one. Just like the best friendships, you need to have time with together to build a personal, intimate friendship. Set aside time every day to speak and, importantly, listen to Jesus.
  • Study His Word. Read the Bible so you know what Jesus expects of us, so you can obey Him. 
  • Spend time with Jesus with your friends. Invite Jesus to spend time with you and your close friends. Let Him bring you closer than ever before as you follow His perfect example. Not sure how to start? Download the Playbook For Level 5 Friendship.

 

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Will God Forgive Me? Finding Peace with His Forgiveness

Sometimes we really mess up and feel bad for what we’ve done. Wondering if God will forgive you can weigh heavily on one’s heart. It’s an important question, and its answer has a huge impact on every individual’s life on earth and the more important, eternal one.

 

What is Guilt?

We all fall short of God’s perfect example and act selfishly. If it’s particularly hurtful to others or ourselves, we feel guilt about what we’ve done. And sometimes, that guilt turns to shame. We feel bad about ourselves, even dirty or unlovable. 

 

Will God Forgive Me? Shame Tells Us No

Shame is one of the devil’s big weapons. It’s the language and the feelings he uses when he tries to convince you that you are bad and always will be bad. He wants you to think that you are worthless, unforgivable and beyond changing. 

 

People who experience shame about themselves, rather than just remorse over their actions, are more likely to fall into the sinful behavior again. Psychology reinforces the negative effects of shame, too. According to a recent study, when guilt turns into shame, people are more likely to experience depression and anxiety disorders.

 

Shame makes us hide ourselves. And, in this darkness, we’re more likely to relapse. But forgiveness brings us into the light, where we’re accountable for what we’ve done and can receive the help we need to change. One of the reasons I wrote RECEIVE was because I believe manhood is a quest to receive your identity and live from it rather than for it. When you receive what God says about your identity, and yes, his forgiveness, you’re able to find your purpose, to become secure in who you are as a man/husband/dad/leader. You can live in a responsible way that makes a positive impact and live for God rather than yourself or others.

 

Forgive is Available and Free!

The first thing to do is acknowledge your wrongdoings. As 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” When you pray to God, confess and ask for forgiveness, He will purify your soul. 

 

His Forgiveness is More Powerful Than Any Sin

God’s forgiveness is a huge reassurance for us as believers. Just like humans, human forgiveness is not perfect. We often let previous “forgiven” wrongdoings fester and tear down our relationships over time. 

 

You might ask, “Will God forgive me but think differently of me?” But God gives you a clean slate and nothing could change his unconditional love. He takes away your sins forever. As Psalms 103:12 says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”

 

Do you want to bless your friends and let God deepen your relationships? Get my free gift and download my Playbook for Level 5 Friendship. 

 

Why God’s Forgiveness is Important in Your Life

God doesn’t just forgive us. He sent down his son, Jesus, who sacrificed Himself for our sins. By believing in Him, God grants you salvation. What does that mean? That means we get to spend the rest of eternity with a perfect God even though we are imperfect. It means that a perfectly just God is also merciful. It means that God forgives you and wants to have a relationship with you, no matter what you have done. 

 

Huddle Up

It can be really helpful to have a close friend or two to help you through these feelings of guilt. Overcome your fear of being judged or falling short. If they are true friends, they will share their own shortcomings with you to lighten your burden and help you from falling into shame. They will keep you accountable and help you receive the transformative power of God’s forgiveness in your life. 

 

What does this kind of Huddle look like? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship.

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