The highest goal of a man’s life is to foster a deeper connection with God. And based on that connection, we want our lives to reflect His love and grace in our marriages, families, jobs, and communities.
But let’s be honest; pursuing spiritual growth can be daunting. Especially for those of us growing up who did not have father figures. Where do I start? How can I determine if I am making progress? What am I missing? What can I do if I feel spiritually dry? These questions are especially difficult to answer when you try to go it alone.
Man in the Mirror is founded on the idea that friendship is not a crutch or backstop to your spiritual journey, but a crucial element of genuine spiritual growth. To help you on your path, here are some practical steps we think will help you deepen your spiritual life through community based on our years of experience and trials.
Step 1: Start with a Willing Heart
Transformation begins with willingness — a willingness to be open, to show up, and to invest in others. In Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, we’re reminded, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” God designed us for relationships — not just with Him, but with each other. A willing heart makes space for those connections to flourish.
Step 2: Prioritize Authentic Relationships
Authentic relationships require us to invest both time and effort in one another. When you surround yourself with godly men who truly know you, you’ll find a wellspring of encouragement, accountability, and wisdom. Take a step toward building these relationships by joining or starting a men’s small group at your church. If you’re unsure where to begin, there are many resources that can help. For example, our No Man Left Behind model is just one resource that equips churches to create sustainable men’s ministries, and these ministries are great ways to build authentic relationships with other Christian men.
Step 3: Embrace Mentorship
One of the most powerful ways to grow spiritually is through mentorship. Whether you’re learning from an older believer or pouring your own wisdom and care into someone younger, these relationships reflect God’s heart for discipleship. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Mentorship isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about walking alongside a fellow believer as you both grow “sharper,” more effective, in Christ.
Step 4: Serve Together
Something amazing happens when we serve others in community. Whether participating in a mission trip, doing local outreach, or simply helping a neighbor in need, serving together strengthens our bonds and grows our faith. Look for opportunities to serve alongside the men in your church. Not only will you make a difference to those you serve, but you’ll also grow closer to God and each other in the process.
Step 5: Be Honest About Struggles
Spiritual growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and it’s not always easy. Being honest about our struggles is a crucial step in building community. When we open up about our challenges — whether in our marriages, at work, or in our walk with God — we create space for others to speak truth and encouragement into our lives. James 5:16 reminds us, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Vulnerability invites healing and strengthens our faith. By being humble, we open the door wider for God to work in our lives.
Step 6: Stay Committed
Finally, community requires commitment. It’s tempting to pull back from people when life gets busy or when relationships feel challenging. But staying committed to your brothers in Christ is essential to spiritual growth. Show up consistently, pray for one another, and lean into the messiness of real life together. You’ll find that as you invest in others, God will deepen your faith and use you to impact their lives, too.
An Invitation to Grow Together
Man in the Mirror is passionate about equipping men to grow in Christ through community. If you’re ready to take the next step, you are welcome to explore the resources on our website. Whether you long to build a stronger men’s ministry at your church, find a mentor, or start a small group, we would love to help.
