Most guys I know enjoy a hike in the woods. There is something about trekking in the forest and getting away from all the synthetic stuff and paved roads that breathes life back into a man’s spirit. On a hike, especially if it’s a challenging one, men bond with each other in camaraderie, having experienced the same grueling climb together. There’s something very fulfilling about summiting a mountain, forging a glacial river, or braving the elements. The hiking experience also offers a great opportunity for men to disciple each other. Jesus did this with His disciples. Several times a year, Jesus would make the trek between Capernaum and Jerusalem with His disciples to attend the various Jewish feasts. One way that’s 75 miles as the crow flies, and significantly farther by road.

It was on these long treks that Jesus often taught and mentored His disciples. Many other times, we find Jesus and His disciples climbing a mountain, traversing a field, in a boat on the lake, or somewhere else outdoors. Frequently, He used items along the trail as props for the life lessons He was imparting to the twelve. In His teachings He refers to the birds of the air, the flowers of the field, the rocks, the grass, and the trees.

Often, out in nature, men are more open and willing to share what’s going on in their lives. In our day-to-day routines, it’s easy to compartmentalize our lives, separating our “spiritual” activities from all other activities. But out in nature, when we pray, discuss the Word, and talk about our joys and struggles, we demonstrate how natural and integrated these practices can be in real life.

Finally, hiking can serve as a great metaphor for life. Consider the following:

• Sometimes the trail is hard and sometimes it’s easy.
• Some hikes are uphill all the way in and downhill all the way out.
• Sometimes the trail is strewn with hazards, rocks, holes, mud, ice, and roots.
• Sometimes there are other dangers along the way: cougars, bears, and moose.
• Sometimes it’s so foggy you can’t see where you’re going.
• Sometimes the weather is your friend and at other times it’s your enemy.

When hiking in remote areas, there’s a cardinal rule: never hike alone. While many men don’t realize this, the same holds true trekking through life. We need other men in our lives. We need a confidant. Someone who has our back. Someone whom we can trust and in whom we can confide. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)

Scripture Reading: Psalm 23

Personal Application: Who is the man in your life that you trust to “sharpen” you? Spend time regularly meeting with him. Pray together, discuss the Word, and share your joys and challenges with each other.

    Jim Grassi, D. Min.

We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5