Two Sundays ago we closed out our Fight series @gccelkhart with an invitation to “get into the ring”.  I urged those in the room to ask God for a word. A word that would describe what was keeping them “out of the ring”.

After they got the word, I invited them to make their way to the punching bag at the front of the room and write that word on it. This act signified a commitment to engage the life of following Jesus without allowing whatever the word was or whatever it represented to keep holding them back.

I believe when someone sets themselves in a new direction it’s really about the significance of THE step…and then, the next step and the step after that. That’s what really, really matters. Writing the word on a punching bag is just an exercise in futility unless we determine that steps matter! So, whatever your word is; keep fighting! Get in the ring! Don’t stop! Never give in and when you are tempted, as you surely will be, remember this:

“The only temptations that you have are the same temptations that all people have. But you can trust God. He will not let you be tempted more than you can bear. But when you are tempted, God will also give you a way to escape that temptation. Then you will be able to endure it.” 1 Cor. 10:13 ERV

And tell the enemy: “I am the righteousness of God in Christ”! This scripture from 2 Corinthians 5:21 is powerful! Your remembrance of whose you are will strengthen you and weaken the devil. So, when you’re tempted, repeat this phrase and your temptation will, in short order, lose its luster. “I am the righteousness of God in Christ, I am the righteousness of God in Christ”!

Additionally, I think we all know intrinsically that we are better together. Which is why, gentlemen, I’m challenging you to continue to pursue what it means for us to get into the ring – to fight for our families, our neighborhoods, all those things and purposes that God has called us to. Join me at the Elkhart campus, along with many other men, beginning January 13th. We will meet five consecutive Wednesday mornings from 6 – 7:30 A.M.  (Join us even if you can’ t stay till 7:30a, leaving early is permissible.) 

Guys, this could be one of the most significant things you do all year. It’s a great way to start 2016 and I hope you’ll make time for this. Make the decision, bring some friends, enjoy some coffee, maybe meet some new friends…and take a step. Please click here to register. Books and study guides are available in the bookstore/cafe here at the Elkhart campus beginning December 20th.