Empowered Manhood

Send us a textDoes God want you to be wealthy? If you are struggling financially, is that a sign that you are out of favor with God or lack sufficient faith in God? Or is being wealthy sinful?The writings of one of the richest men ever, Solomon, provide answers. This week's Bible passage: Luke 12:13-21Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a textHow important is it for a Christian to have sound theology? Isn't it enough simply to demonstrate Christ-like love to others? This week's Bible passage: 2 Timothy 3:12-17 Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a textThe term “social justice” has become a politically charged term that divides Christians, especially Protestants.Evangelicals accuse mainline Protestants of sacrificing bedrock biblical beliefs to achieve cultural goals; mainline Protestants respond that the best way to demonstrate Christ's love is to meet people's physical and social needs.In the middle of this debate stands The Salvation Army.This week's Bible passage: Micah 6:6-8video: "The Salvation Army: Then and Now"Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a textIn two years, he's gone from virtually obscurity to having 450,000 followers, collaborating with major universities, and being featured on ESPN and CBS Sports.All because his videos – most of which poke fun at the college football powerhouses and their fanbases – make people laugh.Wanting to make people laugh is what persuaded Josh Mancuso to go from behind the camera to in front of it. He sees humor as a high calling, because God wants everyone to laugh . . . especially those who know Him best.Our interview with Josh will encourage you to follow God's calling on your life. And it will make you laugh. Because that's what Josh does.You can follow Josh on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, his website, and . . . what, you need other places, too? Seriously?Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a textIn the days of Jesus, Jews hated Samaritans. And the feeling was mutual.Animosity between the two groups had existed for centuries.But why?How did Jesus deal with it? And what does that mean for us today?This week's Bible passage: 1 Peter 2:4-12Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.Christian men of all ages are struggling, and fewer than 10 percent of American churches offer an effective ministry for their men.But a men's discipleship ministry called CLC – Christ Led Communities – is thriving in churches across the U.S. and in pockets around the world, including China.What's behind CLC's success?Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.Is pride good or bad? Many would argue that, pride – especially healthy pride – is good.In a radio address, C.S. Lewis expressed a different opinion.This week's Bible passage: Luke 18:9-14Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.Effective men's discipleship is critical to the health of every church, whatever its size.Travis Edgar leads a small, Free Methodist church in a rural Pennsylvania town. Ronnie Cordrey leads men's ministry at one of the largest churches in America. While their approaches are very different, both men have learned that men's discipleship goes nowhere without authentic brotherhood bonds between leaders and the men they are discipling.Their insights will inspire you to think differently about your role in developing godly men in your church and your other spheres of influence.full interviews: Episode 42, “Incarnational Men's Discipleship with Pastor Travis Edgar” Episode 126, “Creating a Disciple-Making Culture with Men's Pastor, Ronnie Cordrey”Follow Travis on Facebook and Instagram, and check out his church's website and Facebook page. Contact Ronnie via email.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.To make the world a better place, many people turn to politics. That's because the decisions and actions of government leaders can have a significant impact on some things that can improve the lives of some people.As Christians, however, we need to be careful that our political involvement does not overshadow our primary mission.This week's Bible passage: 1 Peter 2:9-17Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.Luke Broyles talks with me about the redemptive value of Bitcoin mining and the significance of self-custody through the Bitcoin Advisors.#BitcoinAdvisors:https://content.thebitcoinadviser.com/lukebroyles#BlockWare Solutions #BitcoinMining:https://www.blockwaresolutions.com/Learn more about #RedemptiveEconomics here...https://redemptiveeconomics.com/Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.Jesus was not only the perfect man but also the perfect model of manhood. To translate the example of Jesus to their own lives, men need help from their Christian brothers.The problem is that most men don't have any Christian brothers. Today's Christian men are attempting to follow Jesus without a single man to walk beside them on the journey.This week's Bible passage: Job 40:1-14Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.I marvel at the integrity of the early Christians. But I also have good examples of integrity in my own life.One man who demonstrated integrity throughout his life was my dad. I learned many things from his example, including these two: (1) play by the rules and (2) honor your commitments.This week's Bible passage: Proverbs 2:1-8Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.Brett Baker was on a self-destructive path until he joined the military, which gave him discipline, structure, and goals. It wasn't until he was medically retired from the military, however, that Brett discovered his true purpose: serving others.In this interview, Brett explains how putting other people first and maximizing their success has had a tremendous positive impact on his business, his relationship with his wife, and his faith.With his wife Mary Elaine, Brett co-founded and runs VA USA, which enables military spouses to become virtual assistants for businesses and other organizations.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.Byner took a handoff, powered past the Broncos' line, and headed for the goal line to tie the game. But he was stripped of the ball at the two-yard line, and the Browns lost.Byner's name is forever linked with that play, known simply as “The Fumble.” Browns fans couldn't forgive Byner, and after one more season Cleveland traded him to Washington.But that's not the end of Earnest Byner's story.This week's Bible passage: Psalm 73:21-28Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.The Hebrew word "shalom" appears 237 times in the Old Testament. The usual translation is "peace", but the word also means completeness or wholeness.Both the Old Testament and the New Testament make it clear that true peace -- true wholeness -- comes only from God.In the second part of our two-part interview with Joel Hanson, he draws from the Bible and from his own experiences to explain how each of us can enjoy the wholeness that God offers. Joel is a singer, songwriter, and musician who has won a Dove Award and been nominated for a Grammy. His years fronting the band PFR brought much critical acclaim, and after three decades he is back in the studio with that band. He also has recorded several solo records and produced and assisted with records for other bands and artists. For nearly two decades Joel was the worship pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota; in summer 2022 he left that role to begin the next chapter of his life.Joel and Kathy have been married for 34 years and have two adult daughters. Connect with Joel on Instagram and Patreon.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.In Jesus's time, there was no concept of equality in the Roman Empire or in Jewish society.So where did Jesus stand on the issue of equality? How did he instruct his followers? How do his words and actions apply to us today, nearly 2,000 years later?This week's Bible passage: Galatians 3:26-29Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.When a Christian leader sins, we expect him to step down and, essentially, disappear.In his letter to the Galatians, Paul instructs us to restore those caught in sin, using a spirit of gentleness. Does restoration mean restoring one to leadership? To the same leadership role?Joel Hanson experienced that type of restoration. Hear his amazing story in the first half of our interview with him. Joel is a singer, songwriter, and musician who has won a Dove Award and been nominated for a Grammy. His years fronting the band PFR brought much critical acclaim, and after three decades he is back in the studio with that band. He also has recorded several solo records and produced and assisted with records for other bands and artists. For nearly two decades Joel was the worship pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota; in summer 2022 he left that role to begin the next chapter of his life.Joel and Kathy have been married for 34 years and have two adult daughters. Connect with Joel on Instagram and Patreon.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.Most Christian churches face a shortage of men, with women accounting for 60 percent or more of typical worship attendance. So why do churches seem to go out of their way to alienate men who are divorced?Church leaders respond that they simply are following and applying biblical principles. But are they?This week's Bible passage: Matthew 19:3-9Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.After 17 years of successful youth ministry in Texas and South Carolina, Warren Mainard heard a call from God. His wife heard it, too. The call was to take their two children, move to Seattle, and plant a church there.It took Warren three years to get church attendance to 100. Then came 2016, and political turmoil tore apart the small church. Two years later, with his family suffering, Warren had to step away from the church that he had planted.Had God called Warren to Seattle to fail?With nearly 30 years of ministry and leadership experience, Warren Mainard brings enthusiasm, vision, and catalytic energy wherever he goes. In addition to serving as the National Director of IMPACT Players -- which inspires men to be great husbands, fathers, and leaders -- Warren is a coach, consultant, speaker, and prolific writer. Warren has been married to Leah, the love of his life, for over 26 years and has two children, daughter Krista and son Micah.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.Jesus knew that, in a few minutes, he was going to raise Lazarus from the dead.And yet, when Jesus saw Mary weeping for her dead brother, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. And when he arrived at the tomb, he wept.Jesus wept.Why?Billy Graham had an answer.This week's Bible passage: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Send us a Text Message.In 1960, Martin Luther King, Jr. called 11 a.m. on Sunday morning the most segregated hour in Christian America. Today, the issue of race continues to polarize and divide American Christians.How is God calling us, as men, to engage with this issue?We sat down with David Bowens, an African-American worship leader at a predominantly white church in Pittsburgh, to get his take. Our conversation was on the heels of Bowens helping to lead two campuses of that church through a series of face-to-face discussions on how racial differences affect our relationships and our faith.In these highlights from that interview, Bowens explains how the experience changed his perspective and that of many who participated.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Send us a Text Message.Restore Addiction Recovery not only helps men defeat their addictions but also equips them for full-time employment and prepares them to thrive in the real world.That's the world where they have failed so many times in the past.But then again, so have we.This week's Bible passage: Matthew 11:25-30Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

When a man goes through a divorce, it's like a bomb has exploded in his life. Everything is affected, including his identity, his dreams and plans, his relationships, his finances, and his physical, emotional, and spiritual health.If he is a Christian, then he expects to find support and help from other men in his church. Instead, he often finds a cold shoulder. As a result, most Christian men who go through a divorce leave their church, and 30% of them walk away from their faith altogether.This episode provides practical ways that you can provide support and encouragement to your divorced Christian brother.Check out Chris Bolinger's article “9 Ways Men Can Support Christian Brothers through Divorce.”Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

God is not bound by the constraints of time. But we are. We wish we weren't. That's why manipulating time is a recurring theme in films.But our time on earth, as short as it may be, is just the beginning . . . because we live forever.This week's Bible passage: 2 Corinthians 4:13-18Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

He got his first job when he was 10. At 14, he took his 12-year-old brother to Beijing for six weeks to attend a conference. He graduated high school early, left home, and at age 17 started running a retail store. At 19, he went to Turkey to “find himself” and came back a Christian. Since then, he's done restaurant management, started and run non-profits, served as a pastor, and helped The Bible Project (website, YouTube channel) reach people around the world.All while fighting against a core belief that he's not good enough and doesn't have what it takes.In these highlights from our September 2023 interview with Mike McDonald, he shares that “getting in the mud” – stepping outside your comfort zone to follow God's call – is a key part of understanding your true identity in Christ.Mike leads The Bible Project's global focus team, which is localizing nearly 200 videos into 56 different languages. Before The Bible Project, Mike spent 11 years leading a global development organization and served on boards for international compassion and justice organizations. To learn more about The Bible Project, read this article penned by podcast co-host Chris Bolinger.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

In life, you often team up with your closest friends. In a crisis, however, a team may be formed from total strangers.When one of the Apollo 13 spacecraft's oxygen tanks exploded, the lives of three astronauts suddenly were in the hands of their teammates: flight controllers and engineers 200,000 miles away.  This week's Bible passage: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

A key part of Christian leadership is managing our finances in a way that honors God. But God calls us to more than just sound money management, says Mike Hatch. In fact, God challenges us to ensure that all our economic activities -- at work, at home, at the store, and everywhere else -- contribute to God's redemptive purposes.In this interview, Mike gives the whys and hows behind pursuing redemptive economic activities.For more information, check out the Mises Institute website and Gary North's website.A graduate of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Mike started his ministry career in Young Life before becoming the men's pastor at a large church in the Pittsburgh area. Currently he serves Christian small business owners as a Chapter President for Truth At Work in Pittsburgh, where he lives with his beautiful bride and beloved son.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Research shows that past adversity can help you persevere in the face of current stress. And that makes sense, because perseverance requires strength, and adversity makes you stronger.Just ask anyone who lifts weights.This week's Bible passage: Psalm 46Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Even if you're reading the Bible every day, you may be missing -- or misunderstanding -- some of what it says.Bible expert David Instone-Brewer recommends putting yourself in the place of the first Christians. By reading the Bible through the eyes of the people for whom it was first written, you'll better understand the meaning of the text. How do you do that? In highlights from this 2022 interview with David, he offers practical tips for mining more gold from the pages of God's Word.Here is an article based on the interview.After serving as a Baptist minister, David spent over two decades as a research fellow at Tyndale House, a research library in biblical studies located in Cambridge, England. His books include Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible, Divorce and Remarriage in the Church, and three books in the  Scripture in Context Series. Check out his Step Bible resource.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

At the end of Field of Dreams, Ray finally loses his cool. He has sacrificed a great deal and wants to know how he'll be rewarded.Is it wrong for a Christian to ask about reward? You know that you'll have eternal life in heaven. But what about here on earth?How did Jesus answer that question?This week's Bible passage: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Mike Hatch is launching a new Pittsburgh-focused podcast this fall and we wanted to take a moment to share the introductory episode with you. Since many of you (our listeners) are from Pittsburgh, we would love to get your feedback and input about this new endeavor.The purpose of this new podcast is to promote a more sustainable, kingdom-focused approach to revitalize the Pittsburgh region through entrepreneurship. Our economic activity is being used for God's redemptive purposes, no matter what that is. Consequently, our role in that economic choreography either conflicts with or contributes to God's redemptive purposes.Redemptive Economics means participating in productive economic activities that... Add value and contribute to human flourishing.Reflect the materiality of God's kingdom.Promote God's redemptive purposes.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@truthatwork.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

What's your favorite Bible translation? Does it really matter which one you choose?Sometimes it does. In fact, the translation – or mistranslation – of a single word of the Bible can make a big difference. It may even skew your view of God in a critical area, such as restoration.This week's Bible passage: Job 42:10-17Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

One of every 10 American adults struggles with an addiction to drugs or alcohol.Dan Gregory isn't one of them. But his son was, so Dan learned all he could about addiction treatment. What he found was a broken system with few options other than short-term outpatient programs that have a poor track record of keeping addicts clean.So Dan created Restore Addiction Recovery, which provides a holistic, Christ-centered, year-long program that's free of charge.Restore opened its doors in January 2021. What's happened since, and what's next at this innovative treatment center?Watch this moving video introduction to Restore.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com Resources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

If Jesus is the Good Shepherd, then what are we?That's right: we're the sheep.And like real sheep, we have a tendency to wander . . . even when we're in the perfect environment, the green pasture to which our shepherd has led us. This week's Bible passage: Luke 15:1-10Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

If you glance at the homepage for the ministry he co-founded, you may think it's just another men's study.You'd be wrong.When the COVID pandemic isolated men in the heart of Pittsburgh, Donnie Gray co-founded Digging Deep Ministries to provide a place where men could meet, be open, and be vulnerable to discuss real-life issues such as pain, hurt, and rejection. Four years later, DDM is a vibrant community of men – young and old, black and white – who meet together regularly to worship, eat, pray, talk, and learn how to walk with Christ on a daily basis. Hear Donnie's story, and the story of DDM, in this inspiring interview.A Pittsburgh native, Donald (Donnie) Gray III emerged from a 2012 prison stint with a determination to transform his own life and the lives of others in the heart of his hometown. Today, Donnie relies on his faith in Christ to balance his ministry work, his passion for being a good husband and father, and his pursuit of a new business venture, RnD Strategies, a personal concierge/consulting company that seeks to “love and serve our customers/neighbors like Jesus Christ.”Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Faced with a choice between something that is urgent and something that is important, you're likely to do the urgent one. When you make that same choice over and over, you find that you rarely, if ever, have time for what's truly important.The problem isn't a lack of time or even a lack of effort. The problem is priorities. By setting the right priorities, you'll pursue what's truly important. But how do you know what that is?This week's Bible passage: Philippians 3:12-16Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

The key to sustained church growth is reaching and discipling men, says David Murrow. His first book, Why Men Hate Going to Church, has sold over 200,000 copies because it "calls the church back to men" and provides practical steps on attracting and retaining men. David's latest initiative, the Online Preaching Coach, trains pastors on providing compelling online content, which is critical to  reaching young adults, especially young men.This episode is highlights from two previous interviews with David:#3 Why Men Hate Going to Church#141 Your Online Preaching CoachAfter you hear the highlights, be sure to check out the complete interviews. And visit DavidMurrow.com for a wealth of resources on growing your church by growing your men.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

When they reached Emmaus, Cleopas and his friend asked Jesus to stay with them. But Jesus left.40 days later, Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving all his followers behind, staring at the sky.His leaving was the best thing for them. And for us.It forced all of us to pursue a new mission.This week's Bible passage: Isaiah 40:1-11Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

He's leading missions trips to deliver humanitarian aid and provide trauma medical training in some of the world's most challenging environments, including Iraq, Ghana, and Nepal. In The States, he's taking on the absence of young men (ages 18-35) in the church.His headquarters: a fight club eight miles from Hershey, Pennsylvania.At 5 Stones Fight Club – which offers boxing, mixed martial arts, wrestling, and strength training – Shane Manney uses a team atmosphere to grow trust and build a sense of belonging. Once friendships are established, relational evangelism and discipleship flow naturally.In this interview, Shane explains why he started 5 Stones, why it's effective, and what's coming next.Shane has over 20 years of experience coaching and instructing wrestling, boxing, submission grappling, and strength training. He has been an infantry machine gunner in the United States Marine Corps, a police officer, and a private security contractor and has worked in the field of drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Shane is married with three children and has a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College. Learn more at 5stonesfightclub.org.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

The Bible tells us that hope, real hope, never disappoints. But what if you're in prison, and you've lost all hope?Eric Genuis has visited 1,000 prisons. To every one of them, he's brought hope . . . in a surprising way.This week's Bible passage: Psalm 33:16-22Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

At first, he dragged his feet. Minister to guys in prison? He wasn't trained for that. God should tap someone else, someone with special skills and experience.But God changed David Derry's attitude by changing his heart.After all, God sent his Son to die for everyone. Including thieves. And murderers. And other guys in prison. Ministering to the incarcerated doesn't take special skills or training. It just takes saying “yes” to God. Once you do that, says Derry, there's no limit to what God can do.Once you hear our interview with David, you might reconsider how God is calling you.David and his wife Laurel  spearhead, organize, and lead marriage events in prison, and David also works with incarcerated youth and young adults. Email David at davidderry@cru.org and get details on the Derrys' ministry at their Cru webpage. And catch our first interview with David in Episode 10 of this podcast.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Why should you forgive other people?Jesus gave us a very clear reason: if you don't, then God won't forgive you.But there's another good reason: it sets a prisoner free. That prisoner is you.This week's Bible passage: Colossians 3:11-14Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

A little over a decade ago, as he was struggling with a crisis in his faith, Richard Ramsey was given the opportunity to write and direct a feature film that presented the life of Solomon in a modern-day context. He threw himself into the project and delivered what he thought was a solid film, The Song.When it lasted only two weeks in theaters, Richard felt like a failure. And he spent the next seven years in a wilderness of projects that never came to fruition.Then came the chance to co-write and co-direct Unsung Hero, which opens on April 26. As Richard shares in this interview, putting your life together in the aftermath of failure is a main theme in this film . . . just as it has been in Richard's life.With a BA in Theatre from the University of Houston, Richard spent his early career impacting the independent film world in Texas. His feature film debut, The Song, was released in 2014 in theaters nationwide. He is the co-director and writer of the upcoming feature film, Unsung Hero. After a six-year tenure as Artistic Director of the award-winning City on a Hill Studio in Louisville, Kentucky, Richard relocated to Nashville where he served four years on the creative staff of Kingdom Story Company. He and his wife live in Tennessee and have five children all named after Beatles songs.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Jesus said that, if you have a tiny amount of faith -- faith like a grain of mustard seed -- then you can tell a mountain to throw itself into the sea, and it will happen.So, why aren't you moving mountains in your own life? Do you lack the faith?This week's Bible passage: Hebrews 12:1-3Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

What are you doing to take care of your soul?After 14 years as a Navy Chaplain and stints as a pastor in an addiction recovery program and local church settings, Greg Woodard has found that caring for your soul is the key to long-term effectiveness. Soul care involves not just having a healthy spiritual life but also developing consistent rhythms, or practices, to boost your physical health, your emotional health, and your relationships.Get Greg's insights on how to take your leadership to the next level with some disciplined soul care.Greg has a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership Renewal and Coaching from Regent University. He is writing a book entitled Living the Connected Life: Soul Rhythms for Purposeful Leadership. Email him at greg@gregwoodard.com or visit his website. Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Evil can be difficult to recognize and even tougher to fight. A big part of the battle occurs in the spiritual realm, and most of us are not intimately familiar with that place.Fortunately, we have powerful allies, and God has equipped us for battle alongside them.This week's Bible passage: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

For nearly two decades, David Dusek has been speaking to and speaking with men around the world. Men want and need authentic friendships with other men, says David, but most men are afraid to open up about what's really going on in their lives.In these highlights from a 2022 interview with David, he explains that, to build trust with men, you need to be real about your own life, including your struggles and failures. Then you can point them to Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith . . . and theirs.David started Rough Cut Men Ministries to encourage and equip men to live their lives for Christ. He utilizes his life experiences — and a strategic combination of action movie sequences, real-world current events, Biblical truth, and fireteam-sized discussion groups — to get men talking about what's really going on in their lives.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

40 days after Jesus rose from the dead, he gave his disciples a radical mission that would be opposed by nearly everyone. Then Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving his closest followers -- a ragtag group of ordinary young men -- without a leader.How would these followers gain the courage to fulfill their mission?This week's Bible passage: Joshua 1:5-9Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

Tim Brown has worked with many successful men. Men who are movers and shakers in their communities. Men with power and platforms and influence.These men are in positions of leadership, but most of them are not leading – or, at least, not leading well. They have few or no close friends and no real accountability. And they are miserable.Why? They don't know who they are, outside of their accomplishments and status. They have no identity.Tim started the REUP Men's Movement to help men discover their identity in Christ and encourage, equip, and empower them to be who God made them to be in their leadership of their families, churches, and communities. In this episode, he shares what he's learned in working with men.Email Tim at tim@reupmen.com.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.orgChris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.comResources:Mike's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel (paperback, audiobook)Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook GroupDaily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional52 Weeks of Strength for MenCLC: https://www.clchq.org/BiblicalLeadership.com

Every time we say the Lord's Prayer, we ask for God's will to be done, on earth as it is in heaven.So what is God's will? Specifically, what is His will for you?This week's Bible passage: 2 Peter 3:8-10Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)Other resources:Chris Bolinger's other devotional: Daily Strength for MenMike Hatch's book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the GospelRelational men's discipleship programs: CLC

When you experience a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one, you may try to replace your grief and guilt with something that provides meaning and purpose. But replacement isn't healing. And you need healing.After Tim Tucker's wife Laura died, he wrote a book, Grief and Grace, to chronicle the six months of deep pain, loss, and grief that he experienced. He then remarried, welcomed a new child to join his three children from his first marriage, and took on a new job. But he felt God calling him to write another book on grief. In that book, Finding Life after Death, Tim shares more lessons he's learned and provides more support to others who are struggling with loss.You'll find healing and hope in our discussion with Tim.In 2013 Tim joined The Message Trust, founding the first international hub of The Message in Cape Town, South Africa, to reach urban youth through Gospel-centred and holistic discipleship programs. Recently, Tim joined The Message's global development team to guide operations across Africa.Tim is passionate about Africa and, in particular, investing in African leaders. His books include The Pace Setter, Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and his latest, Finding Life after Death.Tim is married to Christina. The couple and their four children reside in Cape Town. A wealth of resources from Tim are available at the Grab a Towel site. Connect with Timon Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.