Agora for Men!

Week 1.

We're All A Bit Like Jacob.

You know that feeling when Jacob in the Bible, in Genesis 28:16 (ESV), wakes up and says, "Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it"? Let's be honest, we're pretty good at keeping things in separate boxes, aren't we? Sundays, we might nod along, acknowledge God's there, that he's got a role in our lives. But then Monday rolls around, we're back on the tools, or in the office, and suddenly it's like he's taken a break. We go about our week like his truth doesn't matter much to our Monday-to-Saturday grind.

But He's Not Just a Sunday God.

The God who made the whole universe, including those long work weeks, is not just a Sunday God. He's always there, always relevant. Think about what it says in Jeremiah 23:24 (ESV): "Can a man hide himself in hiding places so I do not see him?" declares the Lord. "Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?" declares the Lord. He's everywhere, not just in the church.

The Trap of Going It Alone.

Initially, it feels good to crack on ourselves, get a bit of credit, and make some headway. But sooner or later, we all hit that wall where we realise true meaning, true purpose, it isn’t found when we cut God out of the picture. The longer we try to live that lie, the more those weekdays feel hollow and pointless.

Finding Holy Ground in the Everyday.

But here's the good news: if we decide to actually look for him, right where we are, where we spend most of our waking hours, we can start to regain that meaning. We can figure out why he's got us in these spots and what he has planned for us there. And guess what? Those everyday moments, those work sites, those kitchen tables – they can become holy ground too.

So, What's Next?

It's pretty simple, really.

• Open your mind: Start genuinely believing that God is with you, right now, this very day, this whole week.

• Ask him to show up: Don't just expect him in church. Ask him to make himself known in your work, in your home, in the thick of it all.

• Turn your thoughts to him: Deliberately focus on him, especially in those moments or places where, in the past, you've completely forgotten about him.

It's about shifting your perspective, recognising that the God of the universe isn't just for Sundays, but for every single moment of your life. It makes sense, doesn't it?

Week 2

Strength Together.

Do you want to become stronger? Do you aspire to be tougher? Connect with others. In times of trials and challenges, those we are connected to can support us by helping us discover the courage we might not find alone. During moments of pain and loss, they provide comfort that brings us back from places we might not return to on our own. When fear and anxiety strike, they offer perspective, enabling us to see things in ways we might not realise by ourselves. In our search for truth, they can teach us, aiding our understanding of concepts we might struggle to grasp alone. When we feel stuck, they can challenge us, speak truth, and encourage us to move forward, helping us to initiate or stop actions that would be difficult without their assistance. When confronted with complex questions, they can listen and guide us, facilitating our processing of issues that may seem insurmountable alone. When we make mistakes, they can correct us and show compassion—reminding us of our worth and that we are loved despite our flaws and failures, which can be hard to remember by ourselves.

The Apostle Paul emphasised the importance of connectedness (Romans 12:15; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13). The early Church exemplified this by spending time together, getting to know each other, sharing meals, learning, and praying. Why is this significant? As individuals, we are vulnerable; when united, we become stronger and more resilient in facing life's challenges (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Connectedness fortifies, rejuvenates, and prepares us for the journey ahead.

Week 3

Feeling Alone at Work?

Many of us fall into the trap of presenting a crafted version of ourselves at work, driven by a culture that prioritises success, recognition, and comparison. This often leads to hiding our vulnerabilities and genuine joys, which isolates us and damages real connections. Proverbs 18:1 warns that isolation breaks sound judgment, and living in this self-centred way can turn workplaces into superficial spaces. Over time, this fosters cynicism, burnout, and a loss of our true selves. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 and Philippians 2:3-4 highlight the importance of authentic relationships, mutual support, and humility. Embracing vulnerability and genuine connections enriches our lives and creates a more supportive environment, leading to purpose and fulfilment rather than downfall.

In a world driven by self-interest, let's courageously defy workplace culture. Remember Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Don't go alone. Find trusted friends at work who share your values. Build a strong bond, support each other, and stay accountable. Practice humility, showing that true strength is in service. Create a transparent space to confess struggles, repent, and seek grace together.

Pray together, sharing concerns and victories. Enjoy laughter and support each other through challenges. Make time for fellowship with regular lunches, coffee, or a prayer/Bible study, fostering spiritual growth amid work.