Ten essential habits for Christian men to cultivate

Mark Lyndon-Jones outlines his top ten essential habits that can empower Christian men to navigate the challenges ahead, grow in their faith, and inspire others as influential followers of Christ

1) Daily Devotion:
“But seek first the kingdom of God…” (Matthew 6:33).
Start each day with devotion to God through prayer, reading Scripture, and quiet reflection. Prioritising time with God builds a solid spiritual foundation that supports every aspect of life. Our daily devotion acts as our compass, leading Christian men through the challenges of life.

2) Integrity:
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely...” (Proverbs 10:9).
Live a life of integrity by aligning your actions with your convictions. Strive for consistency in character. Picture a beacon of light shining amidst darkness.

3) Authentic Relationships:
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works...” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Surround yourself with brothers and individuals who are committed to encouragement, accountability, growth and support. Think of a team of athletes preparing for a competition with each member bringing unique strengths and skills, pushing one another to excel.

4) Servant Leadership:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45).
Embrace the model of servant leadership exemplified by Christ. Serve others selflessly, leading by example and using your gifts and talents to make a difference in the lives of those around you.

5) Emotional Intelligence:
“Finally, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind” (1 Peter 3:8).
Cultivate compassionate hearts that respond graciously in moments of conflict or adversity. Emotional intelligence constructs bridges of compassion, allowing Christian men to navigate differences and foster unity within diverse communities.

6) Family Prioritisation:
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25).
By investing time, love and intentional efforts into building strong connections with your spouse, children and grandchildren, and all those we care for and support, we create a solid spiritual foundation for generations to come.

7) Humility:
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).
Cultivate humility, recognising that true strength comes not from power or position but through submission to God’s will. Let go of pride, embracing a posture of teachability and surrender.

8) Love in Action:
“Greater love has no one than this…” (John 15:13).
Demonstrate love through practical acts of kindness and service. Seek opportunities to make a tangible impact on the lives of others, reflecting God’s love in daily interactions.

9) Develop Discernment:
“Test everything; hold fast to what is good…” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
Grow in discernment through prayer and seeking wisdom from God’s Word. Ask the Holy Spirit to sharpen your ability to discern between truth and deception in a fast-changing world.

10) Stay Curious:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).
Continuous learning that deepens your understanding of God, his Word, and the world around you, cultivates minds that are open, curious, and receptive, allowing Christian men to bear fruit that lasts and impacts the world.

This article first appeared in Direction Magazine. For further details, please click here.

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