My heart was broken. Judas had betrayed Jesus. We saw the anger build as the priests incited the crowds to call for His death. A sense of evil permeated the area like a disease. The hatred stirred in the crowd as they called for His death. They held a trial, beat Him, and whipped Him. He was so torn apart that His bones were visible. He warned us when Mary, Lazarus’ sister, anointed His feet with oil, telling us it was for His burial . It didn’t make sense. He was supposed to bring life! He raised Lazarus from the dead after days in the tomb. Mary, Martha, and I were there. We saw Him call Lazarus out of the tomb. Who would be there to call Him out of His tomb? After the trial and having Jesus flogged, Pilate sent my Savior to the cross. He was made to carry His cross from the courtyard to Golgotha. I saw His blood pouring from His head, hands, and feet. I witnessed the mocking, the sorrow, and His mother’s grief. We could not rescue the One who had rescued me. I began following Him when He delivered me from demons. I was an enemy of God, yet He chose to save me from the affliction of the evil. I became a testament to His power and love. I was a new woman. I had to follow Him. Who could have delivered Him? At the end of Sabbath we went to anoint Him with spices. Though unsure who would roll the stone away, we felt compelled to go. The guards would not be likely to help us, but we would figure something out. As we approached there was a sense of foreboding. Something was wrong. The guards seemed dead, and the stone was already moved. Would we find that they had done some horrible thing to His body? Did they take Him away to hide what had been done to Him? We had to know. When we entered the tomb, the sight that greeted us left us amazed and in fear. A young man in a long white robe told us not to be afraid. He said that Jesus has risen. He invited us to look where He had been and He was not there. We ran out in fear. Could this be true or was this another trick…another mockery? We kept running until we reached the disciples. We told them what we had seen and they ran to see for themselves. I found myself back at the tomb. This was too much. My Lord, who had shown His love and power to so many, had been killed. Now the body was gone and I did not know what to do. I simply couldn’t take it. I stood by the tomb, overwhelmed by grief, and cried. After a while I just had to look again. I stooped to look into the tomb. My gaze was met by two angels. One was where His head had been and the other was at His feet. They asked why I was crying. I told them my fears and turned away. When I had turned I saw a man, his figure blurred by my tears, whom I mistook for a gardener. He asked me why I was crying and who I was looking for. I asked if he had moved the body, and said I would take Him. It was then that He called me by name and suddenly I knew who it was. My Rabbouni! It was Jesus! He was ALIVE! Mary Magdalene in the Garden with Jesus I will remember that for all eternity. The woman with demons was the one who saw the risen Christ first. I am not worthy to be anything to Him, and yet He loved me enough to reveal Himself to me! Jesus, who I saw die, was walking in the garden. He had done what He said! He conquered death. He is with me! Hallelujah, Christ arose! ———— Mary Magdalene was mentioned in the gospels more than many of the disciples. Mark 16:10 states that Jesus had driven seven demons out of her. She followed Christ, witnessed the crucifixion, and was at the tomb to be the one to see the risen Jesus first. What a privilege! I hope you enjoyed the three little stories this week. I attempted to remain true to the scripture, but imagine what must have been going on in the minds of those that followed Him through the joy of the triumphal entry, the desperation, fear, and grief of the cross, and the victory of the empty tomb. I serve a risen Savior!

I left my trade to follow this man. I gave up my profession and followed Him. I saw something amazing in Jesus. He shows people love in ways we have never seen before and knows more about the Law and Prophets than the rabbis. What He started talking about recently has me on edge. He started saying He was going to die. I won’t let that happen. He’s far too important. He saved us in the midst of the storm. I saw Him sleeping as we panicked and were afraid for our lives during a storm at sea. Walls of angry, churning water crashed around us. We woke Him, desperately pleading for His help to manage the boat. We needed all the help we could get if we were to survive. We were desperate. He got up and told us our faith was small and asked why we were afraid. Then he rebuked the wind and waves. All he did was speak... The seas immediately calmed. He has power over the wind, waves, and sea. How could He be talking about dying the way He has been? This week we went to Jerusalem. He had us get a young donkey to ride on the way into Jerusalem. It was a tremendous thrill. As we went into the city, the excited crowds, who had seen or heard of the miracles He had done, waved palm branches, celebrated, and sang to herald Him into the city. It was a party in the streets. The crowd energy was like nothing I’ve experienced before. There’s no way He’s headed for death. I believe in who He is. He is the Christ. He is the Son of the Most High. I saw Him walking on the waves in the Sea of Galilee. He was just out there as if the water was a firm, stone path. He inspired me. I yelled out to see if I could join Him. He told me to come to Him and I left the boat. I was out there with Him. I was taking steps on the water. I should have been sinking, but He was beckoning me, calling me to keep coming to Him. As I moved to Him, I noticed the waves. They seemed more menacing now that I was out of the boat. What I was doing just then was in defiance of nature. Man can’t walk on water…and I sank. I flailed and cried out as the firm place I stood gave way. I was left floating in the tumultuous water. Desperation would have taken hold, but He pulled me out of the water and brought me back to the boat. He defied all that we knew about what is possible. He cannot be killed like He is saying He will be. We will be in Jerusalem for the Passover. He is gaining such recognition here that we may witness great things. Perhaps we’ll see another blind man healed. Maybe He will make the lame walk. We passed some at the gates of the city. So many people need His healing. This whole nation needs His power. The establishment is corrupt. We need a change in our leadership. How incredible would it be if He led our nation? He could do it too. So many seem to want to follow Him. Why would He keep talking about His death? I won’t let Him be taken by the Pharisees; they need to be removed. I won’t turn away from Him. He’s too vital to me and the rest of us He chose. I’ll never forsake Him. He’s my leader, my ruler, my rabbi, and my Lord. He said He’s going to bring His kingdom to earth. He can’t die… Passion Week Stories The Bible speaks of Peter’s conviction. Jesus was Peter’s absolute ruler. He would do whatever Jesus asked. He had seen the miracles of Christ that broke the very laws of nature. Could Jesus really be preparing to die? Many of us know that Jesus did. If you don’t, I hope you’ll take some time to read or listen to John chapters 19 to 21. As we approach Easter Sunday, I want to share my imaginings of what the followers of Christ might have been going through as they headed to what would be the most trying time in their life. They were heading to the climax of the story of all mankind. They had given up any plans they had for their lives to follow Jesus. It was all about to change. He was going to die, but that was not the end of His story.

Devotionals are a great way to prompt deeper study. As I considered this it struck me that I could write some for myself. In my own journey with Christ, I felt lacking when it came to sacrifice. As I explored this idea I began to write about what the scriptures were sharing about ways I could apply to my own life. I examine some significant questions for myself as I explore what sacrifice means in practical terms. Am I willing to make sacrifices for Christ? Am I willing to give time or money, suffer discomfort or persecution, and am I giving up or sacrificing myself for the cause of Christ?  Sacrifice is central to faith—but it’s often misunderstood. We think of big, dramatic moments, but most of the time, real sacrifice is quieter. More personal. And much closer to home. David understood the cost of sacrifice. When offered a free gift to help him make an offering to God, he refused. “I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing” ( 2 Samuel 24:24 ). He knew that true worship isn’t about convenience. It costs something. Time. Pride. Comfort. Something that matters. If I’m being honest, it’s easy to give God what’s convenient—what doesn’t interfere too much. But the deeper stuff? That’s harder. Especially in seasons where everything already feels heavy. Right now in my life, it feels like any sacrifice—of time, energy, focus—just adds stress. But that’s where faith pushes me to trust that God isn’t trying to burden me. He’s trying to free me. The clearest picture of this is in Jesus’ prayer in the garden. “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done” ( Luke 22:42 ). He didn’t skip the struggle. He brought it to the Father and surrendered. That’s where sacrifice begins—with the surrender of our will. That kind of surrender isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about the small, intentional choices. Today, I can practice surrender by being more mindful of how I use my time—what I give my energy and attention to. And when I start my day with God, I find I’m far more likely to notice His direction. When I don’t, I tend to just plow ahead on my own. Romans 12:1 calls us to be “living sacrifices.” Not once-and-done, but daily. The challenge with a living sacrifice is that it can crawl off the altar. A dead offering stays put, but we have a tendency to get back up and take control again. We might surrender our plans to God in the morning, only to take them back by lunchtime. We say, “Your will be done,” but when things don’t go how we hoped, we start steering again. That’s why surrender isn’t a one-time event—it’s a posture we return to over and over. It’s a choice we make in the small things, not just the big ones. And it requires humility, honesty, and help from the Spirit to stay there.   Then there’s the sacrifice of praise. “Through Jesus… let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” ( Hebrews 13:15 ). Praise is easy when life is good. But when it costs something—when it’s a whispered hallelujah through stress or silence—it becomes powerful. That’s the kind of worship God honors. Not because it’s loud or polished, but because it’s real. Soldiers in battle choose to sacrifice every time they go on a mission. Their sacrifice could mean their life. With spiritual battles to wage, am I willing to be that devoted? Sacrifice isn’t about how much you give. It’s about what it costs. And it looks different every day. A surrendered will. A reclaimed moment. A faithful word. A small decision with eternal weight. That’s the kind of life I want to live. And that’s the kind of life we’re called to live. Andrew Miner is a father, worshiper, and fellow traveler in a fallen world. His writing flows from his own walk with Christ and a heart to build up men pursuing faith, family, and identity as disciples. A member of his church’s worship team, he shares stories and Scripture rooted in grace and spiritual endurance, hoping to strengthen brotherhood and unity among believers.

Starting off on a hike in the Snowy Range in Southern Wyoming We are often goal-driven. We have goals for our lives that include finance, health, family, and faith. I have a number of goals myself. I have written them down. I have created vision boards. I have kept a log. I have succeeded in reaching goals. I have failed as well. I recently read Atomic Habits  by James Clear, and he made a point about creating habits that help to reach longer-term goals. In the book, he said something that resonated with me in a way it had not before. As we work to break a bad habit or to create a new, healthy habit, we must begin to identify ourselves differently. My own experience was a testament to that concept. If someone struggling with weight loss wants to set a goal to lose those pounds that just won't come off, it may help for them to see themselves as "someone who eats healthy" rather than "someone struggling with weight loss." It may seem like semantics, but I believe there is strength in that concept. With this mindset, we aren't calling ourselves something we are not. We are simply putting emphasis on the identity that aligns with the goals. "I am making healthy choices," "I am a non-smoker," "I lift weights," and "I am a writer" are not prideful statements. They aren't really a stretch of reality. They are part of who I am. If we relate this to our faith, we have a great number of identity statements that are given to us by our Creator. The statements are sometimes hard to come to terms with. They can be a source of joy. They can change our eternity. The Bible provides a very early identity statement we can all claim. In Genesis, as God is creating man, he sets up our identity. Genesis 1:26  starts, "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness...'" We are made in the image of God. That's an amazing identity statement. As we deal with others at work, at home, and even on the road (I struggle with this one), we should remember that everyone we encounter is made in the image of God. Another identity, however, comes as a result of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. We sinned. We missed the mark of perfection that God laid out for us. As a result, we must start our lives with an additional identity. 1 John 1:8  says, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." If that was the end of it, we would all have to simply identify as a sinner. At some time in our faith journey, we must reach the point of acknowledging this identity. If we don't, then, as John pointed out, we deceive ourselves and can't get to the point of the next identity I want to share. Once we make the admission of our sinful identity, we can see that Christ made a way for us to have an altogether new and absolutely awesome identity—that of a joint heir with Him. As we see our sin in contrast to God's perfection and know that sin can't be in God's presence, it could feel hopeless. The truth is, if we try to bridge that gap ourselves, it is hopeless. There's no "good" I can do that will ever be good enough. The hope lies in the fact that Christ did it for us. He bridged that gap. Through His death, we have an inheritance, and through His resurrection, we have life if we follow Him as the Lord or Leader that He is. The new identity we obtain through that is described in Romans 8:16-17 : "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." We who follow Christ can identify ourselves as "heirs with Christ" and as "children of God." That's enough to melt my brain. I'm not worthy of that kind of identity, but the Bible says that Christ intercedes for us and covers our unworthiness. He made a way for us to bridge the gap between our imperfect lives and the absolute righteousness of God. Back to the goals. If I can identify as a child of God, I want to make my Father proud. I want to do things that please Him. This should drastically affect all of the goals for our lives. Financial goals change to goals of stewarding what God has provided for us. Family goals gain a Biblical perspective. Health goals become a means of keeping ourselves in such a way that we can have the energy needed to do what God wants us to be doing. Our faith goals gain depth and meaning which will affect eternity. Our ultimate goal should be much like Paul the Apostle's. Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already reached the goal or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus.   Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead,   I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.

War has always been a brutal reality of human existence, a reflection of our struggles over territory, resources, and ideals. In the heart of the 20th century, one of the most documented and heroic displays of camaraderie and valor arose from the men of Easy Company during World War II. Their experiences exemplify what courage under fire truly means. The leadership within their ranks and the indomitable spirit displayed by those men are worthy of honor throughout the rest of history. The Trials of Easy Company Easy Company, part of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, is renowned for its courageous acts during World War II, particularly during pivotal battles such as D-Day and the Battle of Bastogne. As these brave soldiers parachuted into enemy territory under cover of darkness, they faced daunting odds, but their commitment to each other and their mission forged unbreakable bonds. The D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944, was just the beginning. As Easy Company stormed the beaches of Normandy, they encountered relentless gunfire and treacherous obstacles. Estimates suggest that around 4,400 Allied troops lost their lives that day, underscoring the chaos and fear of battle. Easy Company's heroes embodied the spirit of perseverance, often drawing strength from their faith and mutual support to navigate grim moments. Their efforts ultimately saved the lives of many soldiers on D-Day and throughout the war in Europe. Their stories are inspiring, and the camaraderie they shared serves as an incredible inspiration to me. The Missionary's Call Just a decade later, on the other side of the world, an entirely different kind of battle was unfolding in the jungles of Ecuador in the 1950s. Jim Elliot, a determined missionary, aspired to connect with the Auca tribe, known for their fierce resistance to outsiders. He viewed this as more than a physical mission; it was a spiritual battle. Armed only with their resolve and the Word of God, Elliot and his companions ventured into the jungles, risking their lives to spread love and hope. While visiting the Auca tribe, Jim and four other men were killed as they attempted to reach the tribe with the gospel of Christ. Jim's story is equally inspirational. He sacrificed everything to share the gospel that had transformed his own life. The missionary families became tightly connected and were steadfast in the commitment that Jim exemplified and continued trying to reach the Auca tribe. They ultimately succeeded. Jim's sacrifice was not in vain. Lessons in Comradeship and Faith These two examples are extreme. Easy Company fought against the totalitarian regime of Hitler and his Reich. Many of those men paid the ultimate price. Jim Elliot and his fellow missionaries lost their lives attempting to reach others to free them from sin and death. Both stories share tragedy as well as victory. Both stories share significant struggle. Both created a sense of intense connection with those who participated in the efforts. The Bible clearly states that Christians face struggles and battles as well. Easy Company and the missionaries in Ecuador knew the risk they were facing. Do we take our own battles as seriously? God calls us to be prepared. Ephesians 6:10-18  describes both our armament and our enemy. Are we living a life of boldness and making something real of our faith, or are we coasting along without paying attention to God, our Commander in Chief, as he, through scripture, lines out our mission? I realize I have spent too much time coasting. I want to live a life that is an inspiration for others. I want to be worth something in the battle to advance the Gospel of Christ. It's on me to do something about that. The Fellow Warrior is my attempt to share with others that we are not alone in the fight. That there are other Christian men out there seeking to do what God wants them to do. That we, like Easy Company, or the missionaries in Ecuador, can connect with each other through our shared struggles. We have families to defend, we have our sins to conquer, and we have the Gospel to share with a lost and dying world. We can become Fellow Warriors if we are willing to step up. Final Thoughts Reflecting on the battles fought by Easy Company and Jim Elliot emphasizes that battles—whether physical, or spiritual—calls for extraordinary courage, unwavering faith, and strong relationships. As Christian men, it is vital to acknowledge that while the path to victory can feel overwhelming, we are never truly alone. Navigating life’s spiritual struggles allows us to emerge victorious through challenges we face and cultivate relationships with those that struggle alongside us. These stories can inspire us to nurture relationships that uplift us in moments of despair, transforming our struggles into opportunities for growth. As we prepare ourselves for daily challenges, let's remember that the essence of the battle lies not just in overcoming obstacles, but also in who stands beside us, ready to fight alongside us.

I was on the Buffalo River again. It had been a few years since I started seeking more meaningful friendships, and I was on a multi-day kayak trip with Chris, a friend who served as the youth minister for our church. While fishing and casually paddling down the river, we started to talk about our church. Chris shared the fact that we needed more teachers in the youth ministry. There was a moment of hesitation before I told him that I would do it. It was nerve-racking. I knew scripture had severe warnings for misleading people as a teacher, but I could not ignore the apparent coincidence. A short time prior to this trip, I took part in a spiritual gifts test. I had been through a few prior to this one and thought I knew what the results would be... but I really didn't. Teaching topped the list by a fair margin, which made me uncomfortable. I didn't think of myself as a teacher. How could I teach anything about the Bible? What qualifications did I have? That just wouldn't work... Now that I was confronted with the opportunity to teach in a church setting, I couldn't ignore the link between the test and Chris's request. I felt like I had to give teaching a try. My friendship with Chris quickly evolved into something more meaningful than just the occasional shared struggle of outdoor adventures. We now had a similar ministry with the same kids. Victories of faith that the teens had we could celebrate, and the poor choices we saw we could pray about and discuss. We now shared a mission with eternal impact. The Foundation of Shared Ministry Ministry is not just a personal calling; it is a journey we embark on together. When believers unite to fulfill their callings, a powerful synergy develops. Shared ministry fosters a sense of community that is crucial to the Christian experience. The importance of each believer's role within the body of Christ is emphasized in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 . Paul compares the church to a body made up of many parts, each playing a vital role. Each member brings unique gifts, talents, and insights, creating a vibrant environment for ministry and service. For example, in a church with 100 members, having various skills—from musicians to organizers—can amplify the impact of community outreach programs by over 50%, reaching more individuals in need. Building Relationships Through Service Service together inevitably leads to strong relationships. From organizing events to leading a study or class, Christians sharing these experiences cultivate trust and unity. Picture a group coordinating an outreach, facing challenges like limited resources or scheduling conflicts. These experiences not only foster friendships but also create memorable stories and shared victories. Moreover, the obstacles faced during service encourage collaborative problem-solving. This teamwork builds trust and understanding, reflecting Christ’s love for the church. Like soldiers, we should devote ourselves entirely to the mission given to us by our Commander. He loved us and gave Himself for us. We are all at our best when we are wholly committed to the same goals. Witnessing God’s Hand in Action Participating in ministry allows believers to witness God’s work in real-time. Serving together transforms them into channels of God's love and blessings. Opportunities like discipleship or mentorship programs create lasting impacts in our churches and in the community. That is what we are all called to do. When we devote ourselves to the mission that God has given to all believers, we can start to gain more clarity on more specifics that He has for each of us. Through that mission, we have the opportunity to see God working in the lives of those around us. Witnessing lives changed through collective efforts reinforces the importance of our ministry callings and strengthens the bonds between participants. The Power of Shared Vision In ministry, a shared vision is essential. When individuals unite around clear goals, they can more effectively pursue their mission. This concept aligns with Habakkuk 2:2 , which encourages believers to write down their vision clearly for all to understand. Shared ministry provides a platform for believers to articulate their mission, fostering individual and collective purpose. When each member sees their contributions as part of a larger goal, their commitment and impact are magnified, creating bonds that resonate deeply and inspire action. Navigating Challenges Together Every ministry confronts challenges, from limited resources to differing opinions. However, shared ministry enables our churches and ministry groups to navigate these obstacles as a team. The support system built through shared experiences allows us to rely on one another during tough times. For instance, during a fundraising event, a sudden drop in donations can be disappointingly challenging. Yet, as we lean on faith, knowing that God will accomplish His mission, we can see growth individually and within our church. Overcoming these challenges fosters collaboration and deepens our belief as well as the relationships within the church. The Essence of Shared Ministry In the fabric of Christian life, the bond formed by shared ministry is woven with faith in Christ, our relationships, and acts of service. Believers unite in adversity, nurturing accountability and overcoming challenges with alignment toward a shared vision. Through this collective effort, individuals find purpose and strength, growing together in faith and positively impacting the world for our Lord. As our ministry groups and churches cultivate these unique bonds, they reflect Christ’s love and mission. Embracing and nurturing these connections lead to flourishing relationships and a vibrant Christian community. Ultimately, shared ministry transcends mere tasks; it’s about fostering genuine relationships that embody God's love for the world, leaving an impact that will last through eternity.

Walking the path alone I was encouraged today to write about a very different aspect of the fellow warrior concept, one I should perhaps have spent some time on as I began this journey. The encouragement was perfectly correct, and I will attempt to do justice to sharing this reality. Many times, I have found myself facing an issue alone. I felt that I had no help, no guidance, and no support. I struggled through conflicts, challenges, or any of a million issues that most of us go through, relying solely on my own strength. Whether I succeeded or failed, I dealt with it alone. What a point of pride when I succeeded—I conquered the challenge, succeeded against the odds, and got the glory. What misery when I failed—I wasn't man enough to overcome the obstacle, I didn't have what it took, and I felt like a failure. The truth is, I was never really alone. David, when he wrote the Psalms, would occasionally begin with a tone of despair, as in Psalm 13: "Lord, how long will You forget me? Forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? How long will I store up anxious concerns within me, agony in my mind every day? How long will my enemy dominate me?" That tone of hopelessness is one I have certainly felt before. However, David does not stop there. He cries out to the Lord in his feeling of solitude and ends with a completely different tone: "But I have trusted in Your faithful love; my heart will rejoice in Your deliverance. I will sing to the Lord because He has treated me generously." The Gift of the Holy Spirit As I get real with myself while dealing with my struggles in victory or in defeat, I must acknowledge that God was with me through it all. I was not in solitude. I was not abandoned. I was never truly alone. Through Christ and His sacrifice, we who give our lives to Him and acknowledge Him as Lord are afforded the presence of the Holy Spirit. Jesus makes a point of this with His disciples in the book of John. We see in John 14 the promise in verses 15 through 18: "If you love Me, you will keep My commands. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesn’t see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you." He repeats this promise of the Counselor in chapters 15 and 16. The word used for Counselor in the original Greek means "One called to walk beside." He provides the Spirit to walk with us, however dark, alone, or isolated we may feel. Jesus was foretelling His death in John 16 but reassures the men that, despite their sorrow, it was better that He left so the Counselor could come. The times I failed to recognize that I am not alone through a trial or struggle are embarrassing. I neglected to recognize the most important presence in my life, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that Jesus went to such great lengths to provide for me. I must remember the ending of David's song. I should always be singing to the Lord because He has treated me so generously. This indwelling leaves evidence. Galatians 5:22-23 speaks to the evidence of the Spirit in us and highlights love as the foremost. This is referred to as the fruits of the Spirit. It starts with love. It is the essential foundation for all our interactions. The way Christ defined the greatest love requires a profound strength. His definition in John 15:13 says, "No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends." He showed that for us and took it even further. Romans 5:10 refers to us before our salvation as enemies of God. Jesus didn't just die for His friends. He died for His enemies. The Holy Spirit is an indescribably significant gift given to every believer. Acts 2:38 states, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This is no small blessing; God Himself comes to live within us. The One who spoke the universe into existence lives inside of those who call Him Lord. Seeking Guidance Another pivotal role of the Holy Spirit is to provide direction. Romans 8:14 states, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” When faced with uncertainty or conflict, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance can illuminate the best path forward. This divine insight can be transformative for us. He can guide us to those we should be serving, to those we should be serving with, and to those who can help us in our walk with Christ. As you consider how to be a fellow warrior, invite the Holy Spirit into your interactions. Seek His guidance as you look for discipleship, a fellowship of believers, and a place to serve out the mission we've been given. Above all, KNOW that He is with you. The struggles and trials you are facing today, whether it's sin, family strife, health issues, addiction, hopelessness, or anything else the world throws at you, are not yours to fight alone. He's got your back.

I realized I needed to be more intentional. I spent too long feeling that I had no close friendships besides my wife. I wasn't meaningfully connected to men in the church, either as mentors or friends. There were a few I got along with, but it always seemed that whenever I found a worthwhile connection, something would create a separation. Life would take that person out of my path, and I was horrible at maintaining the friendships. I had just been participating in the friendships that came along, and not pursuing them with intentionality. I had to change that. Freedom > Safety Around the same time as I was feeling down about my friendships, my brother needed a place to stay for a while. We had a large walkout basement that was perfect for what he needed. We actually hosted most of my family at some time or another in that basement, but having my brother, Ben, there was different. Ben is always on the move. He's always looking for adventure, and it usually, at that time, meant kayaking. I had been living my adult life in what I considered "safe" ways. I would just go home from work, play video games or watch TV, eat, and go to bed. Then, I would repeat the cycle. No guy's nights, no camping, no outdoor activities, and no risk. Suddenly, I was presented with an opportunity to get outside, fish, camp, kayak, and more. I really connected with Ben through that time. I did things that scared me like rock climbing or whitewater kayaking, but the connection I was able to share with my brother outweighed the feeling of risk. I felt a thrilling sense of freedom as I shot through rapids, or as I strategized my next move on a challenging climb. Through those activities, I saw a way to connect initially with other guys at church. The Buffalo Inspecting the bluffs along the Buffalo on a COLD kayaking trip The Buffalo National River in Arkansas is one of my absolute favorite places in the state. My very first canoe trip was on that river. The trip was rough...really rough. We were at church camp and were told we were going on a canoe trip. It would be pretty quick. It was only 8 miles of fast, but not crazy water. All of us were excited and energetic as we got on the bus with the anticipation of an adventure on the water. It was absolutely an adventure. Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, is quoted as saying, "the word 'adventure' has gotten overused. For me, when everything goes wrong - that's when adventure starts." We got out of the bus, set out in our canoes, and realized in moments that the river was extremely low. We would scrape across the bottom until we couldn't paddle any longer, step out of the boats, and carry them until there was enough water to start paddling again. It was excruciating work. By the end, we all guessed we might have carried the boats nearly half of the 8 miles of that trip. The excited, energetic kids that got on the bus were not the same bedraggled, exhausted kids that got back on the bus at the end of the trip. We were beat...and I LOVED it. The time we spent dragging or carrying the boats gave us so much time to see the place we were walking through. The bluffs, the water, and the surroundings just captured me in a way that is hard for me to describe in words. Now, as I began to get back out on the lakes and rivers of our beautiful state, I remembered that experience and began to go back as often as I could. I was going to try to find a way to connect with the guys in our church fellowship in an effort to deepen my own fellowship outside of the Sunday and occasional Wednesday "churchy" routine. I feel that God blessed that intentionality. While most of the guys my age weren't as into doing anything like that, our college-age guys were up for a challenge. I took a weekend job at a local kayak outfitter to both buy my gear without any impact on our budget, and to learn what I could about the sport. I then introduced many of the younger guys to kayaking. I also began to get to know the new youth pastor that our church had recently hired. He was a backpacker but hadn't done much kayaking. I went on a few backpacking trips with him, and eventually took him and his son on a new adventure for them. A kayak/camping trip. We used the same gear we would have while backpacking, but stuffed into our kayaks to equip us for a 2-day adventure on a local lake. Over the next year, we took several day trips and overnight trips to the Buffalo, the Illinois, and other local bodies of water. I broke the habit of staying in the "safe" routine I had been in for so long, and developed a friendship that is, to this day, one of the deepest I have with another guy. We talked about faith, our families, our walk with Christ, and our views of what the time out in the wilderness meant to us. For me, it has been a time of renewal, reflection, and often a time to listen to God's calling. In fact, my call to teach in our church came while I was paddling on the Buffalo. Disconnecting to Reconnect Both kayaking and backpacking draw participants closer to nature, offering time away from screens and an opportunity to reconnect with God’s creation. Most of the areas we visit in the Ozark National Forest or the Buffalo National River areas have little to no cell phone coverage. We are forced to disconnect from social media, email, text messages, and the general distraction that our phones can become. We can reconnect with God's creation. The wilderness can invoke a wonder and reverence. Many people report feeling nearest to God during moments by the water's edge or beneath expansive mountain views. For example, 64% of outdoor enthusiasts confirmed they experience a sense of spiritual connection while in nature. For me, nature is a cathedral of God's design. No manmade structure will ever inspire the same level of awe I feel while I'm on a beautiful river like the Buffalo. Sharing these sacred moments with friends not only deepens our spiritual walk but also boosts accountability in faith. Embrace the Adventure Ahead Outdoor activities like kayaking and backpacking are not just recreational. They present a shared struggle that can provide a meaningful way to build lifelong friendships and nurture spiritual growth. By stepping into nature with companions, we encounter exciting challenges and peaceful moments that can lead to significant spiritual insights. The trip may be tough or not go as planned. The more the struggle, the greater the adventure. So, gather your friends, pack your gear, and take that first step into the great outdoors. It may mark the beginning of a beautiful journey in friendship and faith, and along the way, you may just find a fellow warrior. Great friends at the end of a hike on Indian Creek _

The day took a hard turn with some bad news. I heard that one of our clients, Jon, had died. He had gone kayaking in Colorado and something had happened in a rapid on the Arkansas River. That was it. A nice guy I knew was suddenly gone. It was sad news. Several of us at the office had known him. He had always been upbeat, helpful, and simply a fun guy to talk to. It didn't take long for the loss to gain a depth I didn't expect. My brother, Ben, called me a few hours after I heard the news to tell me one of his dearest friends had died. He was supposed to be on a kayaking trip with his friend, but wasn't able to make it. It didn't take much to realize that he was talking about Jon. Prior to that phone call, I didn't know they were friends. Ben was devastated. This wasn't just a client anymore. The loss had shifted to something greater as I realized there had been a connection far beyond my own between Jon and Ben. The memorial service was to be held in a few days. My brother was not going to be able to make it in time for the service, so he asked, since I knew Jon, if I would go in his stead. Of course, I said I would. I knew some of the people he worked with and would go, I would let the family know that my brother sent his love and condolences, and that would be it. I wasn't very close to Jon, but as I said before, he was a nice guy that I had liked. I arrived at the memorial that was held at a local botanical garden. The service was nice, and several people shared their experiences with Jon. I learned a lot about Jon. He was a great kayaker. He knew and loved whitewater. He had a lovely family. A loving wife had lost her husband. His children lost their father. That was hard. Full of emotion, I mingled for a while, but without knowing many of the people, I felt more like an outsider. I did go share what my brother had wanted me to share with the family, I talked with some of his colleagues that I knew, but once that was done, I felt a little out of place, but I stayed for my brother. As I mingled a bit, I started to see some group dynamics that caught my attention. I saw the people he had worked with from 8 to 5, Monday through Friday, in their own circles of conversation. He spent more time with them than anyone else there. The conversations were emotion-filled, and they spoke about Jon in soft voices and sombre tones. Jon had been a good employee. He was great to work with. He was nice. There was another group there too. The kayakers. Most were from a local club for canoe and kayak paddlers. This was a very different group from the office folks. Some of them wore suits or dark dresses much like the others, but some were much more casual. Some looked like they could have just stepped out of the '60s. Some looked like they may have been on a river that morning. The conversations were just as distinct. They were emotion-filled much like the office staff, but they talked about Jon's heart, his passions, who he REALLY was. Their fellowship seemed far deeper. Their connection to this man had an almost tangible depth to it. That struck me. I was intrigued. As I walked past these groups and listened to the conversations, I was puzzled by the difference. Why didn't the people that spent so much time with him seem to have as significant a connection to him? Why did the kayakers, who only got to see him for a small fraction of his time on this earth, have such a deep link with this man? I wanted to understand. I also wanted connections like that. I envied that apparent significance and longed for it in my friendships. It took a long time for me to make sense of that, but through a series of events I'll share in later posts, I realized that it was the shared struggle. Whitewater kayaking is a risky sport. A raging river is a dangerous place, and the risk could take a person's life. The kayakers all knew this. The passion for this battle between man and nature drove them to prepare, practice, and plan. They entered that battle as fellow warriors. I left the memorial with a question that has been on my mind ever since. Why can't we have that kind of connection within the church? Often I find myself being guarded, not opening up and sharing my heart, my passions, and who I REALLY am. I go through my weekdays on my own strength. I put on a mask that is meant to say "I'm fine. I've got it all together." Many times it has just been a lie. I simply did not want to admit I was failing at anything and that I could handle what life was throwing at me on my own. Many times I was a fool. I'm not alone in this. In 2019, Ipsos, a market research company in London, England, conducted research on the difficulty men had with opening up. In their report "Perceptions of Masculinity and the Challenges of Opening Up," they stated that 38% of men avoid talking about their struggles in order to avoid being seen as "unmanly." Most men agree (77% according to this study) that talking about their issues is a good way of coping with them. However, there's a catch. 41% of men in the study regretted opening up to someone about their problems, and over half of them say that this would keep them from sharing again. We are in an eternal struggle. It's not easy. There is risk. The battle is going on every day. We will meet opposition, the rapids of our lives. We must overcome. We will certainly have times where we will go through challenges on our own, but I believe we NEED others in our lives to share the struggle. They can paddle alongside us and provide the encouragement, accountability, and sense of connection we need. If we are open about our own struggles, they can throw us a line and help when we feel like we're drowning. I am now intentional about sharing the struggle. I love to go on outdoor adventures with others to develop a deeper relationship. I enjoy spending time kayaking, backpacking, climbing, and camping to create a connection that begins to break past the barriers we put up and allows us the space to share more about what makes us tick. I also share the struggle of the mission that Christ left for us. Matthew 28:18-20  "Then Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” As Christians, we share that struggle. We are to share our faith, our experiences, and our testimony. We are commissioned to show others how to follow Christ. Some will be ready to join in that adventure. We can paddle with them, check that they have their safety gear, and throw them a rescue bag when they get into rapids that catch them by surprise. We can fight with them through the hard times and celebrate with them in the victories. Those that help us, as well as those we help and guide are important parts of our shared adventure. I encourage anyone who reads this to embrace the struggle, connect with your fellow Christians, and adventure in your faith with others. As we battle through the tough times together, sharing our difficult times and our joys, we grow closer as believers and join in the shared mission Jesus gave us as fellow warriors.

We start on our own. Our journey to Christ is a personal one. We must wrestle with the fact that we are not good enough to enter God's presence ( Romans 3:10-12 : "As it is written: There is no one righteous, not even one. There is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away; all alike have become useless. There is no one who does what is good, not even one."). We have sinned, we have failed, and there are consequences ( Romans 3:23 : "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."). We are shown the great lengths God went to in order to redeem us ( Romans 5:8 : "But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!"). His son paid the price for our failure, our sin, our inability to measure up to real perfection and righteousness. He finished the process with His resurrection, and in doing so, made a way for His righteousness to cover our sin. We simply have to come to the point where we give up the authority over ourselves and hand that to Jesus Christ ( Romans 10:9-10 : "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation."). That is a very personal decision. We must come to that conclusion on our own. The next steps are meant to be taken together. Our faith journey is meant to be shared and enriched by the company of fellow believers ( Hebrews 10:25 : "...not staying away from our worship meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near."). Seeking discipleship is a crucial step; finding a mentor who can guide us in our spiritual growth and help us to deepen our understanding of God's word can provide us with the foundation we need to stand firm in our faith. Fellowship is also a vital aspect of our Christian journey; by surrounding ourselves with other Christians, we find encouragement, support, and a sense of belonging. Moreover, as we progress in our walk with Christ, we must also remember that we have a duty to lead others to Him. Our own experiences and the wisdom we gain along the way can be used to help those who are seeking or struggling, offering them the hope and light that only Christ can give. This is the beautiful cycle of discipleship—as we are poured into, we, in turn, pour into others, creating a ripple effect of God's love and transforming power. I did the "Christian thing" on my own for far too long. I did not seek out discipleship, I didn't involve myself in ministry that really built the kingdom. I did not find fellowship with other Christian guys. I chose isolation. I stayed home and spent my time on video games or other entertainment. I had to have my "me time." Over the years, God burdened me with the need for solid Christian fellowship with other guys. I felt that I had been losing so many spiritual battles by fighting on my own. I needed fellow warriors. We are meant to grow together. We are meant to learn together. We are meant to fight together, and boy do we have a fight in front of us. There is the fight for our family, the struggles against our own temptations, the defense of our faith, and so much more. The Bible lines this out so many times. The most obvious to me is in Ephesians 6:12 : "For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens." We will have some battles we must face on our own, but let's follow the example of the disciples of Jesus. They ministered and faced adversity together that I don't think most of us can imagine. Paul even went so far as to refer to others as "fellow soldiers" (see Philippians 2:25  and Philemon 2 ). The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation; rather, it is a battle where we uplift and strengthen one another. As iron sharpens iron ( Proverbs 27:17 ), so do believers sharpen each other, helping us to become more effective witnesses for Christ. Through discipleship and fellowship, we find the support and encouragement we need to continue on our path, and as we mature in our faith, we can take ground from the enemy by guiding others along the same path, leading them to the saving knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. In a world that often feels cold and lonely, the Christian community offers a haven of warmth and belonging. As we journey together, we find strength in our shared faith and mission. Discipleship and fellowship provide us with the tools and support we need to navigate the twists and turns of life, and as we lead others to Christ, we find that our own faith is deepened and our joy made complete. Together, we can conquer the darkness by shining as a light, reflecting the love and grace of our Savior.