As men and women of God, we are a team, a body.
The Lord is restoring so many things about what a NOBLE Man that clothes himself in the armor of God truly is. Redeeming stories of how some have been treated negatively in the past and those posing stories of rejection, heartache + how we should be treated daily by a Man of God's character.
The TRUTH about REAL Men…
Men of God are men who take responsibility for themselves and those in their care. They are men who care more about pleasing God rather than anyone else around them. These are men who lead with courage and don't wait for someone else to take the first step. They’ve sat on porches with me watching a sunset over the horizon. They protected us in the streets. They’ve let our voices be heard and they’ve listened to us, ((every last word.)) They are quick to speak with words of great encouragement and words that the Father wants us to hear and be reminded of. They desire to hear our stories and enable the father’s love to FLOW from us. They genuinely care.
They’ve sought to show us that the Lord has something sweet in his love for us as women. That He loves to echo his love in radical ways through us. That its ok for us to sing and dance, rejoicing in this divine romance.
I’ve been taken under a star-lit sky to stargaze (one of my favorite things in the whole entire world). I’ve gotten hand picked flowers. I’ve gotten encouraging notes. I’ve gotten words of affirmation. I’ve gotten constructive feedback that has pointed me further in a relationship with Christ & has pulled out some of the best things about me & who God has created me to be. They push us forward in being joyful women of the Lord exuding the beauty and presence of the Lord. Holding to the fact that the Lord is romancing us all in a love so remarkable.
These Men honor & respect us– treating us as dignified women worthy of love, attention and affection. They see us as their sisters in Christ. They’ve spoken into the fact that we’re worth MUCH more than high heels + aprons + a homemade dinner. And that the Lord has a much more adventuresome and enthralling life for each of us. That the God of love loves us SO much. That we’re a handiwork of the Lord. That we are a lily among thorns (Song of Solomon 2:2). These men are willing to pursue and fight for what they believe in. They fight for time with God. They fight for time soaking in scripture. They pursue time in worship and its reflected in their lifestyle. These men value and uphold themselves with dignity and honor. These men seek after the heart of God. They are humble. They enjoy being in one another’s presence. They enjoy a good laugh. These Men who don't have to prove to anyone that they are men. They just are.
Solid Men. The Lord RADIATES inside of them. They are uplifting & encouraging. And they effectively radiate the character of God.
We spent 2 weeks with RADIANT CHANGE, a team from U-Squad, finishing up their last month on the Race in Moldova. They spoke out and called out the greatness of the Lord in each of us and taught us how to love our team well.
I received a short letter from one of the Radiant Changers and thought I would share some of the thoughts with you.
“… You release the joy of the Lord in everything you do. You have a gentle spirit & such a peaceful presence about you. I always leave you feeling encouraged & upbeat, due largely to all your sweetness & care. You are a lover & care for others so well & when you do, you are loving your Father & He delights in you. As hard as the year may get for you, or when satan attacks your identity, remain in the Father’s love and strictly abide in Him. Remain cheerful, joyful, smile and know that you are bringing nations and people an eternal hope by showing them a side of the Father’s heart and character. I also want to encourage you to become fearless & mighty. Get bold & become unafraid to risk for the Kingdom & to step out in faith of who you want to become. Let God & His spirit take you to new heights, new depths & further than you could ever imagine. ..”
THANK YOU, for calling out greatness and challenging me.
That’s quite possibly the most encouraging note I’ve ever received from a Man of God and I’m thankful for the challenge and wisdom.
This is the truth I hope to walk in this year.
Kyle & Jake—you are appreciated more than you will ever know. You are my friends, my brothers & encouragers. Thank you for continuously showing me the noble characteristics of a Godly Man.
Christian, Burton, Phillip, Wes, Charles, Mike— I truly enjoyed working with you this month. To you + our A Squad Men + other men of noble character that live this life out–Thank YOU!! You are incredibly encouraging. We will continue to offer you grace and love. You are SO valued & appreciated! Never give up. Keep pushing forward.
