The Power of Brotherhood: Why Men Gathering Together Matters

This post isn’t about a group of old guys just hanging out. It’s not about men gathering every week to share stories from “back in the day”. It’s about the importance and power of men aged 60 and above coming together not just to talk about it, but to live out a vibrant, God-centered, Bible-based, purpose-driven, and world-changing life of faith.

There Is No Such Thing As a Self-Sharpening Knife

Men need men to speak into their lives. “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17 ESV). Knives are only sharpened when they are rubbed against iron. The blade will still cut if it is not sharp, but it won’t be as effective.

Men need to gather with other men regularly. Men whom we can learn from, see examples of, be held accountable by, and be encouraged to be the best version of ourselves.

As Special As They are, Wives Are Not A Substitute For Gathering With Men

It doesn’t say, Gold will sharpen Iron. It doesn’t say, Silver will sharpen iron. It says, “Iron will sharpen iron.”

Not long ago, a friend of mine said, “My wife is my best friend. We talk about everything. Besides that, I am too busy for a men’s group”. I think most of us would agree with the first part; our wives are our best friends. I’m pretty sure the second part is not entirely accurate. The old cliche, “The wife is the last to know,” is usually true. If a man is struggling with pornography or having an affair, most likely he will not talk about it with his wife until it is out of control.

If you’re too busy to meet with other men, you may need to re-evaluate your priorities.

My wife wants only the best for me, but let’s face it, she is not a man (Thanking God she is not). To be the best I can be - the best husband, dad, Papaw, friend, and disciple of Christ - I need to gather with men who are doing just that. Men who encourage me to be Christ-like and are willing to hold me accountable when I am not.

I believe so strongly in the importance of men belonging to a group of Christ-like men that I often attend two a week. Here is why...

It Builds Lifelong Friendships

Every week, we gather in a caring environment to discuss our lives, challenges, and dreams, often forming lifelong friendships.

You Can Find Encouragement and Accountability

A big reason we frequently give up on our health and fitness goals isn’t because of well-meaning intentions or a solid plan; they typically falter because there’s no one to challenge us or hold us accountable.

In the gym, just like in every aspect of life, if you ever hope to get stronger, if you are ever going to attempt to become better than you are, you will need a “SPOTTER”.

A spotter is an experienced individual who assists in lifting or pushing more weight while ensuring their safety and proper technique. Spotting is crucial for weightlifting exercises, as it helps the athlete perform the exercise with more confidence, knowing they have assistance if needed.

“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their hard work. If either should fall, one can pick up the other." Eccl”siastes 4:9-10

Even more crucial than physical fitness is our mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational fitness. We all need a spotter. When it comes to pursuing a new hobby, volunteering to serve, or deepening spiritual practices, we need people in our lives who will help us go beyond our comfort zones.

Impacting The Community

Men were created to protect and to serve. The influence of the Brotherhood goes beyond our weekly meetings. Most of us volunteer to aid the homeless, work in schools or youth ministries, serve other seniors, mentor, participate in local outreach efforts, and always make it a priority to set a powerful example for men of all ages. 

Overcoming Challenges Together

Life presents challenges, especially as we age. When we gather, we acknowledge the hurdles of health issues, loss of loved ones, and the transition into retirement. However, the community’s strength gives us the courage to tackle these obstacles head-on.

Rediscovering How To Play

Whether it’s kayaking, hiking, a meal out with the ladies, or lunches in the park playing Cornhole, the laughter and stories shared among men make for a sense of belonging, often hard to achieve in later life.

A New Chapter Awaits

Life after 60 isn’t an end; it marks the start of an exciting new chapter filled with promise and potential.

If you’re over 60 and you desire to live a dynamic God-focused, Bible-centered, purpose-driven life of faith, we welcome you to join our Brotherhood (of Iron) Fellowship. We gather every Wednesday at 8 AM at the IHOP in Dawsonville, GA, and at the same time on Thursdays at the Longstreet Cafe (#2) in Gainesville. Our meetings last an hour, we have breakfast, feature a 15-minute talk from a different speaker, and reserve the remaining time for relationship building.

If you live too far away or cannot find a men’s group that shares these values, consider starting one; it’s easier than you might think.

If you’re interested in joining one of our gatherings or starting a Brotherhood gathering, there’s no cost, and it only requires a few hours of planning. Please contact me at lastbestbite@gmail.com for more details.