Courage in Connection: Embracing Vulnerability for Deeper Bonds

Unlocking the Power of Relationships through Mario Franciscotty's Insights on Overcoming Fear and Being Bold.

Mario Franciscotty provided valuable insights on building meaningful relationships. The well-attended event highlighted the challenges many men face. Here are some highlights for those unable to attend.

The first one is FEAR. This was confirmed by the guys attending as a key obstacle for many of us and prevented us from developing deep, transparent, trusting relationships with others. We are guys and think we must have everything under control. We are fearful of exposing our vulnerabilities and weaknesses. God knew we would struggle with fear and, through HIS word, helps us deal with this emotion.

"So do not FEAR, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" Isaiah 41:10

Are you holding back from reaching out to someone you care about and would like to develop a deeper relationship with? Man up – it is time to be BOLD gents.

The second point was that we need to encourage each other to battle our fears by being BOLD. To be willing to take some risks with our relationships. To get out of our comfort zones and be vulnerable with others. We should not be so focused on what others may think about us and turn down our pride meter! A verse we have front and center in our office comes from 1st Corinthians.

"Keep your eyes open; hold tight to your convictions, give it all you got, be resolute and love without stopping. 1 Corinthians 16: 13-14 (MSG)

To build relationships, you must be "men of courage ." It is not easy, but it is so worth it. You also must be resolute. Stick with it; building relationships takes time. Do not give up after one try.

Mario suggested we all take the step to reach out to someone in our hearts that we care about and let them know how much we appreciate them. We all made a list of those men in our lives that we are close to and care about. We all have that list. Let the men on that list know how much you appreciate them. Send them a note or text today! We all want to be appreciated. It makes us feel valued. Spread that feeling around.

As much as we may not want to admit it, we will all go through tough times. Times when we want other Christian men to walk alongside us. Men who we can trust to keep us on the path to being the Godly men we were created to be. Men who can hold us up when we are hurting. Do not wait until you hit a rough spot. That may be too late. Start developing those relationships now.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" Proverbs 17:7

Guys, God wants you to have deep, meaningful relationships with others and HIM. To do this, we must set aside our fears, be bold, take some risks, be resolute, and let others know how much they mean to us. Oh yes, do not be afraid to tell someone you love them!