The Men of Iron Minute

by Ryan Zook | Curriculum & Content Developer

Take the First Step

What is the first step in taking your faith seriously? 

Travis said on this week’s podcast, “If you step into the weight room, that’s great, but you gotta pick up a weight and lift it.” It’s not enough to plan to do something. You have to put those plans into action. 

So, when it comes to faith, what should you do first? Start reading God’s word every day.   

2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” 

Paul wrote this a few months before he was executed for preaching about Jesus. He wrote to Timothy, whom he had been coaching for some time. 

Paul’s last words to Timothy, his protege, were essentially, “Read the Bible, and God’s word will help you deal with anything that comes your way.”  

In 2009, the Center for Biblical Engagement discovered that reading the Bible fewer than four times a week has minimal impact on people’s lives. But, reading the Bible four times or more a week produced a radical change in people’s lives. 

+ Their desire to view pornography dropped by 61% 

+ They had 30% fewer struggles with their anger issues.  

+ They felt 30% less lonely. 

+ They were 200% more likely to share their faith. 

+ They were 230% more likely to lead others to be like Jesus.  

This research shows the radical ability of God’s word to prepare you for every good work.  

If you’re struggling with anger, read the Bible. If you’re fighting a pornography addiction, read the Bible. If you want to be more successful at work, read the Bible. Regularly reading God’s word radically increases your opportunity for success. 

Combining reading the Bible with solid accountability will make you a better man at the end of 2024. You will be prepared for every good work.  

If you need help figuring out where to start, we recommend Discipline Restored, our 30-day men’s devotional designed to reignite spiritual discipline. Reach out to someone you know and walk through it together. Start your journey by clicking HERE. 

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