Only for Men

Chapter 1 Help! I Must Grow Up! "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” — 1 Corinthians 13:11 This verse speaks to a moment every man faces: the realization that it’s time to grow up. Not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Growing up is the first step toward true manhood—not simply adding years, but embracing maturity. Growing up isn’t easy. It’s uncomfortable, painful, slow, and uncertain. But it is necessary. It demands sacrifice, courage, and perseverance. The path isn’t smooth or guaranteed. Still, grow up—we must. We must face it. We must embrace it. Because maturity isn't optional for those who want to walk in purpose and power. We cannot stay children forever. We cannot avoid responsibility indefinitely. We cannot rely on others to define our path, carry our burdens, or do our work for us. Not our parents. Not our spouses. Not our friends. Not the government. Not the church. Not society. At some point, we must step up. At some point, we must decide to man up and grow up. We revisit this call in upcoming chapters like “Man Up! No More Excuses” and “Man Up! Rise to the Challenge.” But before we get there, we must build a foundation: of integrity, accountability, discipline, and commitment to steady, intentional growth. If you’re struggling, confused, or wounded, this book is here to support you. If you’ve fallen down or lost your way, this is your lifeline. We are walking with you toward the man you were born to become. A man who takes responsibility. A man who leads with integrity. A man who grows through pain and perseverance—and refuses to quit. This is mentorship. This is brotherhood. This is community. We all need it. Because no man was meant to fight alone. As John Donne once wrote, “No man is an island.” We were createdfor connection, challenge, belonging, and accountability. A man cannot grow without the relationships that refine him and strengthen him. Manhood is not a solo mission. It’s not something you inherit, buy, borrow, or fake. True manhood must be earned. It must be lived. It must be tested by fire and measured by action—not talk. We become men when we own our actions, rise to life’s challenges, lead with courage, and live by truth—no matter the cost. You're not a man if you run from responsibility. You’re not a man if you justify wrong with lies. You’re not a man if you put others down to lift yourself up. You’re not a man if you refuse to grow. Real men don’t quit. Real men don’t make excuses. Real men don’t abandon their family or principles. Real men admit their flaws. Real men fall but get back up. They stumble but don’t stay stuck. Do you want to grow up? Then take responsibility for your life. Stop blaming others. Stop making excuses. Start making changes. Surround yourself with men who challenge you—not coddle you. Look in the mirror. Face the truth. Own your failings. And commit to becoming a better man. A better version of yourself. A better leader. A better father. A better husband. A better thinker, communicator, neighbor, citizen, and friend. If you're serious about growth, you must be willing to do hard things. Keep your word. Pay your debts. Honor your commitments. Own your choices. Be dependable. Be disciplined. Be humble. Be self-controlled. You can do it. But no one can do it for you. It takes time. It takes sacrifice. It takes setbacks. But you will grow, and people will notice. You will notice. As we began, so we end: “When I was a child, I spoke as a child… but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” I challenge you: Put away childish things. Change how you think, speak, and act. Live with conviction. Commit to the journey of maturity. Commit to responsibility and purpose. Make the hard decisions. Honor your commitments. Face your fears. Fight for what matters. Step into the shoes of manhood. The world doesn’t need more grown males acting like boys. It doesn’t need louder talkers or shallow performers. It needs deep thinkers. Steady doers. Men of truth, character, and conviction. Not perfect men—but progressive men. Not passive men—but purposeful men. Not reckless men—but responsible men. Not arrogant men—but accountable men. Now that we’ve acknowledged the need to grow up, it’s time to take the next step: the transformation from childhood to manhood. It won’t be easy. But it will be worth it. Let’s continue the journey. Let’s rise to the challenge. Turn the page.