Raising Warriors: Nurturing the Next Generation of Godly Men pt 3

What if the most important work we can do for the future is to raise boys who become men of God?

As we conclude our Father’s Day series, I want to focus on the sacred responsibility of raising the next generation of godly men. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, or mentor, you have the opportunity to shape young men who will impact the world for Christ.

The Need for Godly Men

Our culture is experiencing a crisis of masculinity. Consider these sobering statistics:

One in four boys grows up without a father in the home

Boys are more likely than girls to drop out of school, commit suicide, and end up in prison Many boys lack positive male role models who demonstrate biblical manhood

Yet Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

This proverbs gives us hope that with intentional guidance, we can raise young men who stand firm in their faith and character.

Cultivating Biblical Masculinity

What does it mean to be a man of God?

While our culture often equates masculinity with dominance, aggression, or stoicism, the Bible presents a different picture:

Strength with Purpose

Biblical masculinity isn’t about power for its own sake, but strength channeled toward serving others. Jesus—the perfect man—used His strength to protect the vulnerable, confront injustice, and ultimately sacrifice Himself for others.

To nurture this quality in boys:

• Praise them when they use their strength to help others
• Share stories of men who used their abilities for good
• Teach them that true strength includes self-control

Courage with Compassion

Courage is a core masculine virtue, but biblical courage is paired with compassion. David was both a warrior and a poet, a man after God’s own heart who fought battles and composed psalms.

To develop this balance:

• Encourage healthy risk-taking while teaching empathy
• Celebrate both physical achievements and emotional intelligence
• Point out examples of men who demonstrate both courage and tenderness

Leadership through Service

Jesus redefined leadership when He washed His disciples’ feet, demonstrating that true leadership is found in service. This counters the world’s message that leadership is about control or status.

To foster servant leadership:

• Create opportunities for boys to lead by serving others
• Point out the servant leadership of Jesus as the ultimate example
• Recognize and praise acts of selfless service

The Power of Positive Influence

 Proverbs 27:17 tells us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Young men need relationships with godly men who can model biblical masculinity.

If you’re raising or influencing boys:

• Connect them with men of faith who can mentor them
• Point out positive examples of godly men in Scripture and in real life
• Create opportunities for them to see men worshiping, praying, and serving
• Share stories of men who have overcome challenges through faith

As Father’s Day approaches, let’s commit to investing in the next generation of godly men. Whether through parenting, mentoring, teaching, or simply modeling Christ-like character, each of us can play a part in shaping young men who will stand firm in their faith and lead with integrity.

Raising the next generation together,

Cathleen Thomas

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

What’s one quality you believe is essential for godly manhood that we should be nurturing in the next generation? Reply to this email to share your thoughts—I’d love to hear your perspective!