Beyond Networking
by Bob DiGiorgio

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

(Proverbs 27:17)

Networking – Definition: the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.

Men typically have no problem “networking”. Most of us are comfortable interacting and exchanging information. We find it easy to talk about our jobs, our home teams, our hobbies, and sometimes even our families. We know how to make contacts that will benefit our personal lives and our careers. But moving beyond networking — well that is quite a challenge for us. Moving beyond just casual conversations to establish real relationships where we can talk about our struggles in life does not come easy for us.

A Barna Research Group study found that 95% of Christian men have no male best friend with whom they can share their spiritual battles. The study also revealed that only 5% have been, or are currently in, some sort of discipling relationship.

I find this information to be startling and sad. Yet I do see many signs of hope at SLPC as many men are gathering weekly, bi-weekly or monthly for Bible Study, prayer, support and encouragement. Meeting together is good, but it is not an end unto itself. These are wonderful opportunities to forge relationships where we can share our common struggles and spiritual battles and find encouragement in the process.

Christian men share many “common threads,” and our experiences -- though different -- are not unique. We also share a Savior. One who loves us deeply even though He knows the worst about us. Jesus is the One who knits us together so that we can support and encourage one another. HE is the One who helps us become better men, better husbands, fathers, grandfathers -- faithful servants of God and more loving neighbors in our communities.

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy – to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord – be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority – before all time and now and forever.  Amen.”

(Jude 24 & 25)

LOOK FORWARD TO THE MEN’S RETREAT
February 25 & 26, 2022 ~ Traber Center, Spring City, PA
Guest Speaker: Dr. Tim Witmer

For more information about Men’s Ministry opportunities, please contact Bob DiGiorgio at bobdigiorgio@gmail.com.

 

COMMON THREADS winter 2022