Being The Man God Called You To Be

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

1 Corinthians 16:13–14 “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.”

Paul here gives 4 commands for Godly men.

1. Watch — Be Spiritually Alert

A Godly man stays spiritually awake.

Jesus warned His disciples in Matthew 26:41 ““Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.””

“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”

Things that can slowly pull men away:

Busyness

Career obsession

Sexual temptation

Pride

Neglecting time with God- If this happens then the other will probably fall right behind.

A man does not drift into Godliness. He pursues it intentionally.

How many times have you heard someone say, they were tempted to read the bible, or they were tempted to pray.

No, you pursue Godliness intentionally, on purpose not by accident.

Discussion Question

What helps you stay spiritually alert?

2. Stand Fast in the Faith — Be Grounded

Culture constantly shifts, but truth does not.

Scripture reminds us in Ephesians 6:13 “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

“Having done all, to stand.”

A godly man stands firm in:

His faith in Christ

Biblical truth

His commitment to family

Integrity in work and life

Discussion Question

Where is it hardest for men today to stand firm in their faith?

3. Be Brave — Act Like Men

Even in the face of aversity, you will make the right decision.

Some translations say “act like men.”

This speaks of courage.

God told Joshua in Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.””

“Be strong and courageous.”

Real courage for men includes:

Leading spiritually at home

Saying no to temptation

Doing what is right even when it’s unpopular

Admitting when you are wrong

Discussion Question

Where do men need courage the most today?

4. Be Strong — Grow Spiritually

This strength comes from God.

Isaiah 40:31 “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

“Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.”

Spiritual strength grows through:

Prayer

Reading Scripture

Fellowship with other believers

Obedience to God

Discussion Question

What habits help you grow spiritually stronger?

The Balance: Strength with Love

Paul finishes with a critical reminder.

“Let all that you do be done with love.”

Strength without love becomes harsh.

Leadership without love becomes control.

Jesus modeled this perfectly in John 13, when He washed His disciples’ feet.

The strongest man who ever lived served others.

Personal Challenge

Ask yourself:

Am I spiritually alert?

Am I standing firm in my faith?

Am I leading with courage?

Am I growing spiritually stronger?

What examples do you have to prove the answers.

I don’t need your answers, this is for you.

Your family, church, and community need Godly men.

God doesn’t call perfect men.

He calls men who are willing to follow Him.

Follow me, Jesus says

Memory Verse

1 Corinthians 16:13–14

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.”