Leadership

A Few Good, Godly Men

By Hal Santos · One.64 Leadership

Every man needs trusted people who will encourage him, challenge him, and help him become stronger in the places that matter most.

Hal’s reflection begins with a simple image: the natural challenge that happens when one man sees another lifting more weight. That kind of challenge can be playful, competitive, and even motivating. But the deeper question is whether men allow themselves to be challenged in life, faith, character, family, and leadership.

Men need other men. Not just acquaintances or admirers, but faithful voices who can ask better questions, offer honest perspective, and help a man grow as a husband, father, leader, and follower of Christ. Small groups, retreats, and intentional men’s ministries create space for those relationships to form.

Hal remembers being challenged as a teenager to surrender his life to Christ, a moment that changed the direction of his life. Since then, God has used mentors, elders, and spiritual fathers to teach him through seasons he would not have chosen on his own.

Challenge for leadership

Wise leaders help us see what is forming while it is still small. Hal recalls counsel from Pawpaw Holden, Pamela’s grandfather, who urged him to deal with problems early before they grow into something overpowering. That wisdom has shaped the way he approaches difficult moments in leadership.

Challenge for integrity

As a young Bible college student, Hal heard a lesson from Rev. Maxie Thomas that stayed with him for decades: humility is one of the safeguards of a faithful life. Every leader needs people who can speak clearly, keep them grounded, and help them remain honest before God and others.

Challenge for finishing well

Hal’s life mission can be said simply: finish strong, not wrong. That kind of life requires accountability. It requires someone who can ask the hard questions and receive truthful answers. It requires a “spotter” — someone close enough to help when the weight gets heavy.

The invitation is direct and hopeful: ask God to show you who those people are in your life. Every man needs a few good, godly men who will help him grow stronger, love better, lead faithfully, and finish well.