On Episode 221 of the Men of Iron Podcast we talked about, “How Deep Friendships Can Transform Men’s Lives.” We all need men in our lives who move us closer to God. On Monday we challenged you to evaluate your friends list. How many recreational friends (men you have fun with) do you have versus how many resistance friends (men who challenge you to be better) do you have?

According to an American Perspectives Survey, Fifteen percent of men have no close friendships at all, a fivefold increase since 1990.

I can think right away of 4-5 guys that I could watch a game with or talk about fantasy football with. When I think of men I can be vulnerable with and share my struggles with, that list gets short fast.

As the stats show, a lot of men don’t have deep friendships.

Why don’t men have friends? I think it’s easier for us as men to grit and grind than it is to admit we are weak. The truth is, all men need, deep, dependable, accountable friends. It’s not good for men to go through life alone.

Why do men need deep, dependable friends?

• • #1 – To care for us
  • #2 – To hold us accountable
  • #3 – To grow in our faith with

As we approach Thanksgiving tomorrow, I want you to do something. Think about those deep friendships in your life and send that guy a text thanking him for his friendship. If you feel like you don’t have any close friends in your life today is the day to find those friends. Think about a guy you know (a co-worker, neighbor, guy at church) that you admire and want to be more like. Send that guy a text or message to grab coffee and connect.

The only way to build deep relationships in your life is to intentionally pursue them.

The quality of our friendships has a major impact on our lives as men. Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future. Don’t settle for surface-level friendships—seek out the deep, dependable friendships that will hold you accountable, encourage you and help you grow to be the man God created you to be. Happy Thanksgiving!