Embracing Spiritual Maturity and Courageous Living

Summary

Today’s focus is on the call to “act like men” from 1 Corinthians 16:13—a challenge not just for fathers or men, but for all believers to step into spiritual maturity, strength, and courage. The world constantly shifts its standards for what it means to be successful, strong, or good, leaving many chasing after achievements, status, or validation that never truly satisfy. True identity and purpose are not found in external accomplishments or fleeting cultural trends, but in living out the righteousness and calling of God.

The journey to maturity is a process. Just as children must grow up and put away childish things, so must believers move beyond self-centeredness and temporary pursuits. Maturity means living for others, embracing responsibility, and seeking to leave a legacy of faith. The example of Chris Spielman, who left a successful football career to care for his ailing wife, illustrates that real manhood—and real maturity—are found in sacrificial love and faithfulness, not in accolades or outward toughness.

God Himself is described as a “man of war,” a warrior who stands against evil. We are called to reflect this aspect of God’s character by being strong in spirit, courageous in the face of adversity, and steadfast in faith. This strength is not about physical prowess, but about dominating evil influences, resisting temptation, and standing firm for what is right. Courage is required to stand up for righteousness, even when it is unpopular or costly, as seen in the story of General Von Zeeland, who boldly defended his faith before a king.

Standing firm in the faith means putting on the armor of God, engaging in spiritual warfare, and refusing to let the enemy gain ground in our lives, families, or communities. It is about being a spiritual protector, interceding for others, and living with integrity so that our lives bear witness to Christ. Ultimately, the model for all of this is Jesus, who embodied perfect strength, courage, and faithfulness—even to the point of death and resurrection. As we follow Him, we become the kind of people who leave a legacy of faith, hope, and strength for generations to come.

Key Takeaways

- True Strength Is Spiritual, Not Merely Physical
Strength in God’s eyes is not about outward power or achievement, but about being strong enough in spirit to resist evil and stand for righteousness. This requires intentional training in godliness, self-discipline, and a willingness to say “no” to temptation in real time. Spiritual strength is developed through consistent practice, just as physical strength is built through exercise. The goal is to be so rooted in Christ that we can dominate evil influences rather than be dominated by them. [29:59]

- Maturity Means Moving Beyond Self-Centeredness
Spiritual maturity is marked by a shift from living for oneself to living for others and for God’s purposes. Just as children are focused on “me, mine, I,” adults are called to put away childish things and embrace responsibility, service, and sacrificial love. This transformation is a journey, not a moment, and it is through this process that we discover deeper joy and meaning. Maturity enables us to disciple others, serve our families, and leave a legacy that outlasts us. [24:58]

- Courage Is Essential for Godly Living
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the resolve to stand for truth and righteousness even when it is difficult or dangerous. Whether it’s confronting cultural mockery, resisting peer pressure, or standing up for faith in hostile environments, godly courage is rooted in the fear of God rather than the fear of man. Our presence and convictions can influence others, sometimes even causing the ungodly to respect or reconsider their actions. Courage is a defining mark of those who act like men and women of God. [38:56]

- Standing Firm in Faith Requires Spiritual Warfare
The Christian life is a battle against spiritual forces, not just flesh and blood. We are called to put on the full armor of God, to stand between evil and those we love, and to refuse to let the enemy gain ground. This means being vigilant, prayerful, and equipped with truth, righteousness, and the Word of God. Standing firm is not passive; it is an active, ongoing resistance to the schemes of the enemy. [46:38]

- Legacy Is Built Through Faithfulness, Not Perfection
God is not looking for perfect people, but for those who are willing to grow, to stand, and to fight for righteousness. Our legacy is not determined by worldly success, but by our faithfulness to God and to those entrusted to us. As we become strong, courageous, and steadfast in faith, we inspire others and change the trajectory of our families and communities. The call is to step up, act like men (and women), and leave a legacy that honors God. [49:54]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[09:42] - Newsletter and Devotional Resources
[12:19] - Introduction: “Quit You Like Men”
[13:31] - Chris Spielman: Redefining Manhood
[14:09] - The Shifting Standards of Success
[16:00] - Righteousness as True Validation
[18:07] - The Futility of Chasing Worldly Approval
[21:23] - The Limits of Physical and External Identity
[23:06] - Busyness vs. True Spiritual Growth
[24:58] - Maturity: Putting Away Childish Things
[26:36] - God as Warrior: The Call to Strength
[29:10] - Be Strong: Spiritual Strength Over Evil
[33:20] - Training in Godliness and Real-Time Obedience
[37:03] - Courage: Stories of Faithful Boldness
[43:41] - Personal Testimony: Courage in the Workplace
[44:36] - Stand in the Faith: The Armor of God
[46:38] - Spiritual Warfare: Protecting Home and Legacy
[49:54] - Leaving a Legacy of Faith
[54:23] - Godly Men: Warriors for Righteousness
[55:44] - Giving and Living for Eternity
[58:46] - Honoring Fathers and Closing Remarks

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: “Act Like Men” (1 Corinthians 16:13)

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### Bible Reading

- 1 Corinthians 16:13
“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (ESV)

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### Observation Questions

1. In 1 Corinthians 16:13, Paul gives four commands. What are they, and how do they relate to each other?
2. According to the sermon, what does it mean to “act like men” in the context of this passage? [12:19]
3. The sermon shared the story of Chris Spielman. What did he do that redefined what it means to be a “man” or mature believer? [13:31]
4. What does the sermon say about the world’s changing standards for success and strength? [14:09]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The phrase “act like men” is not just for men, but for all believers. What does spiritual maturity look like according to the sermon? [24:58]
2. The sermon says true strength is spiritual, not just physical. How does this challenge the way our culture defines strength? [29:59]
3. Why is courage essential for godly living, and how is it different from just being fearless? [38:56]
4. The sermon talks about “standing firm in the faith” as spiritual warfare. What does it mean to put on the armor of God in everyday life? [46:38]

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### Application Questions

1. The world constantly shifts its standards for what it means to be successful or strong. Are there any areas in your life where you’ve been chasing after achievements or validation that don’t really satisfy? What would it look like to seek your identity in Christ instead? [14:09]
2. The story of Chris Spielman showed sacrificial love by putting his family before his career. Is there a relationship or responsibility in your life where God might be calling you to put others first, even if it costs you something? [13:31]
3. The sermon says maturity means moving beyond self-centeredness. In what area of your life do you still find yourself thinking “me, mine, I”? What is one step you could take this week to live more for others? [24:58]
4. Spiritual strength is developed through consistent practice, like physical exercise. What is one spiritual discipline (prayer, Bible reading, accountability, etc.) you could commit to this week to grow stronger in your faith? [29:59]
5. Courage is standing for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular. Can you think of a situation at work, school, or home where you need to show more courage for your faith? What’s holding you back, and how can you take a step forward? [38:56]
6. The sermon calls us to be spiritual protectors for our families and communities. Is there a specific way you can pray for or support someone in your life who is under spiritual attack or struggling? [46:38]
7. Legacy is built through faithfulness, not perfection. What kind of legacy do you want to leave for your family, friends, or church? What is one thing you can do this month to move toward that legacy? [49:54]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the Holy Spirit to show you one area from today’s discussion where you need to grow in strength, courage, or maturity. Ask God for help to take a specific step this week.

Devotional

Day 1: Act Like Men—True Maturity in Christ
To “act like men” is not about outward bravado or chasing ever-shifting standards of success, but about growing up in Christ, putting away childish self-centeredness, and embracing the call to spiritual maturity. This means moving beyond living for ourselves and instead living for God and others, finding our identity and approval in righteousness rather than in fleeting achievements or the opinions of the world. As we mature, we become people who can answer life’s deepest questions with confidence, knowing we are living out our God-given purpose and leaving a legacy that matters. [16:00]

1 Corinthians 16:13 (ESV)
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.

Reflection: In what area of your life do you sense God calling you to put away childish thinking or self-centeredness and step into greater spiritual maturity today?


Day 2: Strength to Overcome—Spiritual Power Over Evil
True strength is not measured by physical might or worldly accomplishments, but by the ability to stand firm against evil, resist temptation, and walk in wisdom and righteousness. Just as Jesus grew strong in spirit, we are called to train ourselves in godliness, proactively preparing to dominate evil influences rather than being overcome by them. This strength is developed through discipline, prayer, and obedience, enabling us to say “no” to sin in real time and to protect our families and communities from spiritual harm. [29:59]

Luke 2:40 (ESV)
And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.

Reflection: What is one temptation or negative influence you need to proactively guard against this week, and what practical step can you take to strengthen your spirit to resist it?


Day 3: Courage in the Face of Opposition
Courage is the mental and moral strength to stand for righteousness, even when it is unpopular or dangerous. Godly courage means refusing to back down in the face of cultural pressure, persecution, or mockery, and instead standing up for what is right, just as saints of old and faithful believers have done. This kind of courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act for God’s glory despite fear, trusting that God will honor those who honor Him. [38:56]

2 Samuel 10:12 (ESV)
Be of good courage, and let us be courageous for our people, and for the cities of our God, and may the Lord do what seems good to him.

Reflection: Where is God prompting you to take a courageous stand for righteousness or truth, even if it means risking your comfort or reputation?


Day 4: Stand Firm in the Faith—Spiritual Warfare and Armor
Standing firm in the faith means recognizing that we are in a spiritual battle, not against people, but against spiritual forces of evil. God calls us to put on the full armor of God—truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God—so that we can withstand attacks and protect those entrusted to us. Like a warrior standing in the gap, we are to resist evil’s advance into our homes, marriages, and communities, declaring, “You shall not pass,” and living as beacons of faith and hope. [46:38]

Ephesians 6:10-17 (ESV)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Reflection: What part of God’s armor do you most need to “put on” today to stand firm in your faith and protect those around you?


Day 5: Living for the Eternal—Letting Go of the Temporary
The world constantly tempts us to find meaning and identity in temporary things—success, possessions, appearance, or busyness—but these never truly satisfy and always demand more. God calls us to fix our eyes on what is eternal, to live with a vision for His kingdom, and to invest in things that will last beyond this life. When we let go of the pursuit of the temporary and embrace our identity as eternal beings created in God’s image, we find true contentment and purpose, leaving a legacy of faith for generations to come. [55:44]

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV)
For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

Reflection: What is one temporary thing you are tempted to chase for meaning or validation, and how can you shift your focus to invest in what is eternal today?

Quotes

There's a process of transformation that God is bringing us through. There's a process of maturity where God wants to take us from being newborn babes who can only drink of the milk of the word to becoming men who can eat the meat, the deeper, the stronger, the heavier, the weightier things of God. To where it's not someone always attending to our, attending to our needs, but now we're discipling other people. Now we don't need someone to feed us the word of God. Now we know how to read the word of God for ourselves. And not only that, we now know how to go out and serve others and strengthen others and encourage others and bear one another's up. You can't do that if you're not strong. [00:25:43] (00:00:40 seconds) Edit Clip

The strength that men are supposed to have in our day is, is the strength of God to resist temptation, to fight evil, to stand up for what's right and what's holy and what's true. to stand watch over our families and say, not today, Satan. To be men of God and really women of God, we need to become strong spiritually. [00:30:24] (00:00:21 seconds) Edit Clip

We're supposed to be sufficiently strong as to dominate evil. Not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. A godly man is strong in spirit. He walks in wisdom. Learns how to stand firm in the faith. How to deny ungodliness and worldly lust. How to live soberly and righteously and godly in the present age, according to Titus. [00:32:35] (00:00:27 seconds) Edit Clip

Acting like a man, in my mind, is pictured just like that. It's standing between the evil and the demons that are seeking to come into your life, seeking to come into your children's life, seeking to come into your home, seeking to break up your marriage, seeking to rob the church of its place of power, seeking to undermine our community. It's standing like a man is standing up and saying, you shall not come into my home. You shall not touch my children. Not one hair of their head, you won't get past me. You won't touch my spouse. You won't break up my marriage. You won't stop my future. It's standing in the armor of God and resisting evil. [00:46:46] (00:00:43 seconds) Edit Clip

The Bible calls men to act like men. But what does that mean? It means growing up into the measure and stature of Christ. It's becoming like the best man there ever existed. The only good man, the only true man, the only pure man, the only holy man, the only powerful man, truly powerful man who, when he was being crucified, the Bible says, open not his mouth and did not defend himself. Remember, he said, in one moment, I can ask my father and he will send legions of angels. But Jesus was strong enough to face the cross, strong enough to face sin and death and hell in the grave. And when it was all said and done, he walked out. [00:48:09] (00:00:42 seconds) Edit Clip

I believe that as we do these things, we'll become men who leave a legacy of faith and strength for others to follow. And ladies, while we're addressing this particularly to men, this command is to all. God wants you strong. God wants you powerful. God wants you courageous. God wants you to open your mouth and speak the word of God and tell the devil no. [00:50:04] (00:00:22 seconds) Edit Clip

God is raising up warriors who will fight for righteousness and truth, who will stand when no one else will stand, who will go where no one else will go, who will speak up when no one else will, who will love like Jesus loves, who will show compassion and kindness and mercy and grace like God does. God is a warrior, a man of war. And he calls us to join him and to be like him. Amen. [00:54:23] (00:00:25 seconds) Edit Clip