If you are like most guys I know, you work hard at your job, come home and work some more, collapse in your recliner for a few minutes, and then head to bed, only to do it all over again the next day.
God designed you to live a life with adventure, purpose, and meaning and when you find yourself a bit stuck, it’s time to adjust.
To encouraging you to make some adjustments we have a jam-packed blog that will educate, equip, and engage you in meaninful ways. And we are praying these adjustments will lead you to the life you’ve always wanted.
But remember, If nothing changes (input), nothing changes (output)… i.e. if you don’t make internal changes there will not be any outward changes in your life!
Our “Men on the Move” line-up for today includes…
- Podcast – Ministry Update (49 min)
- Photoblog – Expedition Report
- Reflecting – Mountaineering Metaphor
- Short Film – The Challenge of Rainier
- Take Action – Groups and Events
May God richly bless you as you seek to know and follow Jesus… the “Blueprint for Men”.
Here’s to Moving Men Forward!
Marty Miller
Blueprint for Men
Founder | President
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YOU WERE MADE FOR ADVENTURE!
You were created to experience life in God’s awesome creation… the great outdoors, where struggle, challenge, adventure, and freedom are embraced and enjoyed. Most men find themselves trapped in an artificial world that slowly kills the masculine soul. You were not made to live like this… you were made for action and adventure!
We, at Blueprint for Men, endeavor to provide men like you with outdoor adventures to remote scenic locations all over North America and beyond. Over the years we have led expeditions to Mt. Rainier, the Wind River Range, the Sierra Nevada, the Grand Canyon, the Smoky Mountains, and more.
Case Study
The Granite Peak Expedition
There are a wide variety of men’s groups that we promote within this ministry but I have discovered that men’s groups that include activities such as adventure, recreation, and service tend to have the most fun!
For me, the activity that I love is climbing mountains. So when I got an invitation to climb Granite Peak, the highest point in Montana, I couldn’t resist!
Granite Peak (12,799′) is considered one of the most difficult state high points to reach, only behind Denali, Mt. Rainier, and Gannett Peak. The southwest face of the mountain can be seen above our basecamp on the shore of Sky Top Lake. Majestic and awesome to say the least.
Our route, the Southwest Ramp, was hidden behind a cleft in the mountain, elusive. We were being called “Into the Mountain” once again!
Our team consisted of Doug Brown, Franklin Farrow, Marty Miller, Xaver Pinero, and Dylan Opp. Here we are at the beginning of our 24 mile trek through the remote and rugged Absoroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
Through a shared vision, preparation, and follow-through our team conquered Granite Peak on September 6, 2024. But as exciting as making it to the summit is, you’re only halfway done because you must descend the mountain and make it back home safely. And sometimes the descent is more dangerous than the climb.
As we descended, Doug guided us through treacherous terrain to the base of the climb where it seemed we were home free, but that wasn’t the case. Doug dislodged a 300 lb boulder which nearly crushed his foot. It was easy to see that he would not be able to backpack the 11 miles out to the trailhead so we sent an S.O.S. via InReach (satellite communication). The SAR (Search and Rescue) Team arrived several hours later. Here is the rescue team assessing Doug’s injury and preparing him for transport.
Doug was choppered to the hospital in Livingston, MT where he was treated and released. Fortunately he had no broken bones.
Meanwhile the rest of us guys packed up the next morning and trekked 11 miles to the trailhead and back into town for showers and a celebration pizza dinner. During our dinner we debriefed our experience and dreamed of future mountains to be climbed and sharing about the personal mountains awaiting for each of us back home.
This is only a brief exerpt of a photoblog called “The 2024 Granite Peak Expedition” that I will be completing in the next few weeks. Stay Tuned!
MOUNTAINEERING AS A METAPHOR
Our Granite Peak Expedition provides a metaphor for how you and I can understand how to build a successful life. Take some time to read and think about what aspects of your life fit this framework, and maybe see some things that are missing. Here goes.
Planning for Success:
The meticulous planning required for a mountaineering expedition and the pursuit of success in life are both profound endeavors that involve careful preparation, risk management, and the pursuit of goals. Interestingly, biblical wisdom provides valuable insights into these processes, illustrating principles that can guide both climbers and individuals striving for success.
“Climb if you will, but remember that courage and strength are nought without prudence, and that a momentary negligence may destroy the happiness of a lifetime. Do nothing in haste; look well to each step, and from the beginning think what may be the end.” ~ Edward Whymper, first to summit the Matterhorn
By examining these principles through the lens of scripture, we can gain deeper understanding and practical guidance for our own journeys. Take some time to reflect upon each principle as it applies to your life, journal your thoughts, make a plan, and then take action. Courage!
1. Defining the Objective
In mountaineering, setting a clear and achievable goal is crucial. Climbers must define their summit and plan their route accordingly. Similarly, the Bible emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and purpose in life.
Proverbs 29:18 states, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
A well-defined objective gives direction and motivation. Just as climbers need a clear summit in mind, individuals must discern their goals and purposes to navigate their paths effectively.
Reflection: What mountains are you facing in life? What mountains are of your personal ambition? Which mountains are not of your choosing? What is your plan to conquer these mountains? Have you consulted with others you trust? Have you sought God’s wisdom through his word?
2. Assessing and Preparing for Risks
Mountaineers must prepare for various risks such as weather changes and physical challenges. The Bible also speaks to the importance of planning and preparedness.
Proverbs 21:5 advises, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”
Careful assessment of risks and thoughtful preparation can lead to favorable outcomes. Similarly, individuals should evaluate potential obstacles and prepare for them through strategic planning, prudent decision-making, and faith in divine guidance.
Reflection: What risks do you face in life? What boundaries do you have in place to protect you from falling into sin? What boundaries do you have in place to protect those you love? Are you standing in the gap for your family with daily prayer?
3. Training and Skill Development
The rigorous training required for mountaineering parallels the continuous self-improvement encouraged in the Bible.
2 Timothy 2:15 states, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Just as climbers train to handle physical and mental challenges, individuals are called to develop their skills and knowledge to effectively navigate life’s challenges. Both pursuits require dedication and ongoing effort to achieve excellence.
Reflection: What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? What steps are you taking to develop and sharpen your skills and disciplines? How are you leading your children to do the same?
4. Team Dynamics and Collaboration
Mountaineering often involves teamwork, and the Bible underscores the importance of collaboration and support.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Success in life often involves working with others—whether in professional environments or personal relationships. Building strong, supportive relationships is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving goals, echoing the collaborative spirit essential in mountaineering.
Reflection: Do you have a band of brothers that truly know you, hold you accountable, and “have your back”? Are you surrounded by godly counselors? Are you humble and teachable?
5. Adapting to Changing Conditions
Mountaineers must adapt to changing weather and unforeseen conditions. The Bible also speaks to the need for adaptability and trust in God’s guidance.
Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Flexibility and trust in a higher power can help individuals navigate unexpected changes and challenges in their personal and professional lives, just as climbers must adjust their plans in response to shifting conditions.
Reflection: Do you trust God or are your consumed by fear, anxiety, shame, and doubts? Are you distracted by things of this world such as politics, sports, entertainment, etc. Or are you focused on God’s word? Is Jesus your solid anchor as the winds of strife prepare to be unleashed?
6. Reflecting and Learning from Experience
Post-expedition reflection helps climbers learn from their experiences. The Bible encourages reflection and learning as well.
James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Reflecting on experiences and seeking wisdom can lead to growth and improved planning. By learning from past successes and failures, individuals can refine their strategies and approach future goals with greater insight.
Reflection: Have you reflected on life, especially things that are holding you back from having healthy relationships? Do you seek God’s wisdom so that you don’t repeat your mistakes and fall back into your besetting sins?
7. Maintaining Motivation and Perseverance
Climbing a mountain demands perseverance, and the Bible speaks to the power of enduring faith and motivation.
Hebrews 12:1 encourages, “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
Success in life similarly requires enduring motivation and faith in the journey. The ability to remain focused and steadfast in the face of difficulties is a shared necessity for both mountaineers and those striving for success.
Reflecting: Are you weary and tired? Have you lost your enthusiasm and focus? Are you taking time to rest and refocus your energies? Are you taking time to keep your relationships strong, especially your relationship with God?
Conclusion
The planning involved in a mountaineering expedition and the pursuit of success in life both reflect the importance of clear goals, risk assessment, skill development, collaboration, adaptability, reflection, and perseverance.
Biblical wisdom offers valuable guidance for these processes, emphasizing the need for vision, preparation, collaboration, flexibility, and enduring faith.
By integrating these timeless principles into our planning, we can navigate our paths with greater clarity, purpose, and resilience, achieving our goals and reaching our personal summits.
Go Climb Your Mountains… but do it with a band of brothers who follow Ultimate Guide, Jesus Christ!
Get Inspired: Enjoy Blueprint for Men’s short film about a recent climb of Mt. Rainier called “The Climb”.
WATCH VIDEO HERE
Join Our Movement of Men
You’ve heard the saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” Sometimes I feel that way about men in the church AND the church organization itself… which is led by men.
Men are the problem and solution to most of the problems in the world, the church, and the home.
I am convinced that for men to become the men God calls them to be they need to first join, and then lead, a discipleship group. Personally I don’t see that this is an option for us as “Christian” men.
Jesus commanded us to “make disciples” and those men that followed his command changed the world. God is looking for men like you who are going to join this movement of men. Men who are sold out as disciples and disciple-makers. It is then, and only then, that Jesus will return. And I don’t know about you, I’m sure ready to go home!
Let’s Go Big and Go Home!
If you would like to join a men’s discipleship group visit our groups webpage and take the courageous step to join our movement of men so that we can all go home! Let’s do this!
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UPCOMING RETREATS
Sep 20-22
Built for Freedom Summit
Camp Mohaven, Ohio
Sep 27-29
True to Duty Retreat
Nosoca Pines Ranch, South Carolina
Oct 18-20
Men of Power Retreat
Camp Alamisco, Alabama
Nov 1-3
Man Camp
Stern Mountain, Tennessee
Nov 15-17
Built for Freedom Summit
Indian Creek Camp, Tennessee
QUOTABLE…..
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” – Helen Keller