Uncommen: Man to Man

Five day bible reading builds a steady habit. See how Uncommen reached 2M YouVersion completions, plus an easy 5-day plan men can start today.

https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Jan-10-1.mp3 The start of a new year is supposed to feel hopeful. Calendars reset. Goals get written down. Language like fresh start and new season fills conversations. But for many men, January does not feel light. It feels heavy. The noise of the holidays fades. Decorations come down. Schedules thin out. And when the distractions disappear, something else shows up. Sadness. Fatigue. A sense of being behind. For men of faith, this moment creates tension. You believe in God. You trust Him. So why does everything still feel so low? This is where christian faith and depression collide in real life. Many men assume that strong belief should cancel out emotional struggle. When it does not, shame steps in. Silence follows. Faith becomes something you perform instead of something you bring your whole self into. Psalm 42:5 speaks directly to this moment. “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” This verse does not deny sorrow. It names it. The writer speaks to his own soul, not to impress anyone else, but to tell the truth. He feels downcast. He feels disturbed. Then he chooses hope without pretending the pain is gone. That balance matters when talking about christian faith and depression. God never asked men to fake strength. He invites honesty. When Faith Does Not Remove the Weight Many men enter a new year believing faith should flip a switch. Pray more. Read more. Serve more. Try harder. When the heaviness stays, they assume something is wrong with them. But Scripture tells a different story. David wrote many psalms from places of exhaustion and despair. Elijah collapsed after a great victory and asked God to take his life. Jeremiah wept openly. Even Jesus experienced deep sorrow. Depression is not proof of weak belief. It is part of living in a broken world with a body, a mind, and emotions that feel strain. Christian faith and depression can exist at the same time without canceling each other out. The danger comes when men believe they must hide one to protect the other. The New Year Pressure That Makes It Worse January carries pressure that most men never name. Everyone else seems motivated. Social feeds fill with gym photos, business plans, and spiritual resolutions. Comparison creeps in fast. You look at your life and think: I should be further alongI should feel more excitedI should be gratefulI should not feel this way That word should adds weight. It does not heal anything. For men walking through christian faith and depression, the New Year can amplify shame. You feel like your inner world does not match your outer language. You talk about trust while feeling tired. You quote Scripture while avoiding prayer. You show up at church but keep quiet inside. God is not confused by that tension. He meets you in it. Why Men Numb Instead of Naming the Pain When emotions feel uncomfortable, men often look for ways to quiet them. Work harder. Eat more. Drink more. Scroll longer. Stay busy. Stay distracted. These habits are not random. They are attempts to manage pain without admitting it exists. The problem is that numbing never heals. It delays. And over time, it deepens isolation. Many men dealing with christian faith and depression feel ashamed of their sadness. They believe they should be beyond it by now. So they stop talking. They pull away from Scripture. They avoid prayer because silence feels loud. Avoidance feels safer than honesty. But it creates distance from the very grace meant to carry you. Stillness Is Not Failure After the holidays, life slows down. The calendar opens. Entertainment drops. Noise fades. This quiet can feel uncomfortable. But Scripture calls stillness an invitation, not a punishment. “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stillness reveals what distraction covers. When everything stops, your thoughts get louder. Your heart surfaces things you have avoided. This is often where christian faith and depression show up most clearly. God does not rush this process. He does not demand instant joy. He invites you to sit with Him in the quiet. Jesus and the disciples walked from town to town. Not every day held miracles. Many days were ordinary. Faith was lived in the slow steps between moments, not just in highlights. Low days do not mean wasted days. Depression Does Not Mean God Left One of the most damaging beliefs men carry is that emotional struggle means spiritual failure. If you were closer to God, you would not feel this way. If your faith was stronger, this would pass faster. That belief is not biblical. God draws near to the brokenhearted. He does not withdraw from them. He does not wait for you to feel better before He listens. Christian faith and depression intersect most deeply when you allow God into the weakness instead of hiding it. You can pray honestly. You can say you feel tired. You can admit you feel numb. You can ask questions. You can sit in silence. None of this pushes God away. Filling Time Without Filling the Soul After Christmas fades, many men rush to fill the space. Trips. Projects. Entertainment. New routines. None of these are wrong on their own. The issue is motive. When activities exist only to avoid emptiness, they fail to satisfy. You stay busy but remain restless. For men navigating christian faith and depression, this season invites intentional planning. Not planning to distract, but planning to restore. Read books that challenge your thinking. Start walking regularly. Listen to music that quiets your mind. Spend time with people who bring peace. Volunteer in ways that shift focus outward. These rhythms support mental health while honoring faith. Why Scripture Must Come First Many men look for inspiration in podcasts, devotionals, or biographies. These can help, but they are secondary. Scripture anchors truth when emotions fluctuate. When depression clouds thinking, the Word steadies perspective. It reminds you who God is when feelings lie. It speaks when motivation fades. Reading a few verses daily can reshape how the season feels. Luke. Psalms. Isaiah. Matthew. These words recalibrate the heart. For men wrestling with christian faith and depression, Scripture is not a performance tool. It is nourishment. Replacing Instead of Adding Trying to stack spiritual habits onto an already full life often fails. A better approach is replacement. Replace scrolling with prayer. Replace background noise with Scripture. Replace isolation with conversation. Replace avoidance with honesty. This makes change sustainable. Small shifts carried consistently matter more than dramatic promises that fade by February. Depression and Identity Depression often attacks identity. You feel less capable. Less valuable. Less useful. Faith restores identity slowly. Not by denying struggle, but by grounding truth. You are not your productivity. You are not your mood. You are not your worst thoughts. In Christ, identity remains steady even when emotions shift. This is the heart of christian faith and depression. You hold onto truth when feelings feel unreliable. Community Matters More Than You Think Isolation strengthens depression. Community weakens it. Men often believe they should handle things alone. Faith was never meant to be solitary. Scripture describes believers walking together, bearing burdens, encouraging one another. Serving with others. Praying together. Talking honestly. These practices stabilize mental health and spiritual growth. Churches, small groups, and trusted friends create space for healing. Depression Is Not a Switch No one wakes up and chooses sadness. Healing does not happen overnight. Progress comes through time, support, prayer, Scripture, and sometimes professional care. These are not competing paths. They often work together. For men dealing with christian faith and depression, patience matters. God works steadily, not rushed. A Better Question for the New Year Instead of asking, Why do I still feel this way, try asking: Where is God inviting me to trust Him here? That question opens conversation instead of closing it. Practical Steps to Take Now Read one Psalm each day. Talk honestly with one trusted person. Limit numbing habits. Plan life giving routines. Serve in a simple way. Pray even when words feel weak. Small steps rebuild strength. A Personal Challenge Ask yourself one question. Am I hiding my struggle to protect my image of faith? If so, honesty may be the doorway to healing. God does not require pretending. He invites presence. Closing Prayer Lord, You see the weight many carry into this season. You are not distant from sadness or afraid of questions. Teach us to bring our whole selves to You. Help us trust You in the quiet days as much as the joyful ones. Restore hope where depression has dimmed it. Anchor us in truth when feelings shift. Amen. Christian faith and depression do not cancel each other out. They meet at the place where honesty begins. Be uncommon. Check out our other resources in our library.

The start of a new year brings lists. Resolutions get written. Habits get promised. Motivation runs high for a short window of time. Most of those plans center on visible outcomes. Weight. Income. Productivity. Projects. Schedules.

https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finances-Part-2-March-2024.mp3   Our latest Man to Man Podcast, God's Wisdom in Wealth, dives deeper into the biblical principles of managing wealth. In this episode, we explore how aligning our financial practices with God's wisdom can transform our lives and those around us. Let's continue our journey through finances from a faith-driven perspective, Crafting a God-Centered Family Budget We began by addressing the complexities of creating a family budget that honors God in a consumerism-driven world. The startling statistic is that about 22% of Americans saved less than $5,000 for retirement. We discussed the importance of a Christian budget that aligns spending with biblical values, emphasizing contentment and stewardship over materialism. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender," underscoring the need for wise financial management. Overcoming Debt with Divine Trust The journey through financial stewardship would only be complete with confronting debt and savings. The average American household has a significant amount of debt. We delved into biblical wisdom on avoiding debt's bondage and the importance of purposefully saving and trusting God's provision. Ephesians 4:32's call to kindness and forgiveness parallels our need to manage finances with compassion and wisdom, not fear or envy. God's Wisdom in Wealth & Investments Our final discussion focused on how our investments can reflect our commitment to God's kingdom. Only 57% of U.S. adults are considered financially literate. Yet, we are to make investments that honor God and positively impact the world. Through supporting our local churches and missions, we invest in eternal treasures. Matthew 6:20 encourages us to store treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys. Uncommen Questions and Challenge:  This Man to Man podcast, God's Wisdom in Wealth, challenges us to examine how our financial decisions reflect our faith and commitment to God's kingdom. Are we managing our resources in a way that honors Him? How can we use our wealth, however great or small, to further His kingdom on earth? Brothers, let us be stewards of God's gifts, not just for our sake but for the betterment of our families, communities, and the world. Embrace the journey of navigating finances faithfully. Let's support one another in this critical aspect of our lives. For more resources and community support, remember to join the Uncommen Membership. Together, we grow in faith and make a lasting impact on our world.

https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finances-Part-1-March-2024.mp3   As we navigate the complexities of modern life, our relationship with money often reflects our spiritual health. This Man to Man Podcast: Financial Faithfulness aligns our financial decisions with God's plan. Let's challenge ourselves to reconsider our perspectives on wealth, generosity, and trust in God's provision. The Spiritual Perspective of Money In a society, the pursuit of wealth can overshadow our spiritual priorities. We explore how to realign our financial practices with biblical teachings. Discussing the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21), we are reminded of the transient nature of earthly treasures and the importance of stewardship over mere ownership. With Matthew 6:24 as our guiding verse, we confront the idolatry of money. This perspective encourages listeners to adopt a mindset of managing God's resources, not ours. The Power of Financial Faithfulness We face the challenge of living generously in a world that often prioritizes personal gain. Turn to the story of the widow's offering (Mark 12:41-44), which illustrates faithful sacrificial giving. This segment explores how generosity reflects our faith, strengthens our character, and impacts our community. Emphasizing 2 Corinthians 9:7, we discuss practical ways to cultivate a heart of generosity. It challenges each listener to consider how they can give joyfully and purposefully. Trusting God in Financial Uncertainty Maintaining faith and trust in God can be particularly challenging in financial hardship. Through the story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-16), we discover the power of trusting God's provision, even when resources seem scarce. Philippians 4:19 reassures us of God's promise to meet our needs. Find peace in His provision and practice financial wisdom and discipline as acts of faith. Uncommen Questions and Challenge: How can your financial decisions better reflect your trust in God's provision? What steps can you take this week to demonstrate generosity, regardless of your financial situation? Brothers, let this discussion on "Financial Faithfulness: Aligning Wealth with God's Will" be a catalyst for growth in your spiritual and financial journey. As we reflect on our roles as stewards of God's gifts, may we be inspired to live generously and trust deeply? Prioritize eternal treasures over earthly wealth. Join the Uncommen Membership for resources and support as we grow in faith together.

Brothers, welcome to our latest episode of the Man to Man Podcast, titled "Love Like Christ: Transforming Relationships." As Valentine's Day approaches, it's a fitting time to delve deep into how we can transform our relationships through Christ-like love.

Brothers, welcome to our latest episode of the Man to Man Podcast, titled "Love Like Christ: Transforming Relationships." As Valentine's Day approaches, it's a fitting time to delve deep into how we can transform our relationships through Christ-like love.

Brothers, are you navigating the often silent struggle of men's mental health? In our latest Man to Man Podcast episode, 'From Shadows to Light: Navigating Men's Mental Health Journey,' we dive deep into this vital topic. This episode is dedicated to exploring the challenges and pathways to mental wellness for men, illuminated through the light of Christ's teachings.

Brothers, do you ever feel overwhelmed by the challenges and uncertainties of life? In today's world, it's easy to lose sight of peace amidst the chaos. This devotional explores how we can find true peace through faith in Jesus Christ, even in the midst of life's storms.

https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Unwrapped-4.mp3 ​​ Ever feel like Christmas loses its true meaning in the holiday rush? You're not alone. In this Man to Man podcast, Christ-Centered Christmas, we dive into how to celebrate the season while staying true to its spiritual roots. Key Takeaways: The Overlooked Message of Christmas: Learn how the birth of Christ, the holiday's core, often gets lost in commercial and cultural distractions. It's crucial to remember and celebrate the true reason for the season. Balancing Tradition with True Meaning: Discover ways to enjoy seasonal traditions without losing focus on Jesus. It's about blending the fun with the fundamentals. Daily Devotion: Get insights on incorporating spiritual practices into your daily routine in December to keep Christ at the forefront. Why You Should Listen: If you've ever felt disconnected from the spiritual significance of Christmas amid the holiday bustle, this podcast is for you. Real talk: many people struggle to focus on Jesus during this busy time. Bible Verses: Luke 2:11 (NIV) - "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." This verse reminds us of the central message of Christmas. Segment Info: The True Focus: Discuss how to keep Christ at the center of Christmas celebrations amidst the distractions of the season. Infusing Meaning into Traditions: Explore ways to weave the story of Jesus' birth into family traditions and holiday activities, making them more meaningful. Uncommen Questions: How do you balance enjoying seasonal traditions with keeping your focus on Jesus? What daily practices could you incorporate in December to enhance your focus on Christ? Uncommen Challenge: Join our 'Christ-Centered Christmas Challenge.' Commit to a daily time of reflection or devotion throughout December, focusing on the life and teachings of Jesus. Write down your experiences and see how this practice helps maintain a Christ-centered perspective throughout the season. It's time to rediscover the true spirit of Christmas! Join us on this journey to make the season more meaningful and spiritually fulfilling. Consider purchasing a membership to Uncommen: A Ministry For EveryMan.

 https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Unwrapped-3.mp3 The holiday season, especially Christmas, often brings the changes in our lives into sharper focus. This can include the pain of missing loved ones or the evolution of traditions. Many people feel the impact of loss more acutely during this time. In this Man-to-Man podcast, Find Hope and Renewal This Christmas, we explore ways to cope with these changes and find hope and renewal in the spirit of Christmas. Key Takeaways: Coping with Loss: We discuss the heightened sense of absence of loved ones during Christmas and offer ways to manage these emotions. Adjusting to Changed Traditions: Traditions evolve, especially after significant life changes. We talk about embracing these changes. Finding Hope in Change: We encourage listeners to see new beginnings and opportunities in these changes, reflecting the Christmas spirit of renewal and hope. Why You Should Listen: If you're struggling with the changes in your life during the holiday season, this podcast offers comfort and practical advice. We focus on coping with loss, adjusting to new traditions, and finding hope in change, inspired by the promise of renewal in Isaiah 43:19 - "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Segment Information: Coping with Loss During the Holidays: We discuss the emotional impact of missing loved ones during Christmas and ways to honor their memory. Embracing New Traditions: This segment focuses on the importance of creating new traditions as a way to heal and add joy to the holiday season. Support Systems During Transition: We emphasize the role of family, friends, and faith communities in supporting each other through changes. Bible Verses: Isaiah 43:19 (NIV) - "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Revelation 21:5 (NIV) - "He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!' Then he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.'" Uncommen Questions: How can you honor the memory of loved ones while embracing new traditions? What new beginnings or opportunities can you find in the changes you've experienced? Uncommen Challenge: We encourage our listeners to start a new Christmas tradition or activity that reflects a recent change in their lives. This could be remembering a lost loved one, adapting to a new environment, or any other significant life transition. Share your new traditions with us and how they have brought new meaning to your holiday season. Join us in finding comfort and joy in the midst of change this Christmas, as we embrace the promise to find hope and renewal. Consider donating to Uncommen this season!

 https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Unwrapped-2.mp3   Navigating family gatherings during the holidays can be challenging, especially when there are complicated histories or past conflicts with relatives or friends. About 40% of Americans report feeling anxious or stressed about these gatherings. This Man-to-Man podcast, Peace and Reconciliation in Holiday Gatherings,  explores how we can approach these situations with a spirit of reconciliation and peace. Key Takeaways: Embracing Reconciliation: The essence of Christmas is about extending grace and reconciling. We discuss the importance of making peace, mirroring the spirit of the season. Dealing with Diverse Personalities: Acknowledge the challenge of different personalities and how to approach these situations with understanding and empathy. Maintaining Peace Amidst Differences: We provide practical ways to maintain peace and avoid conflicts during holiday gatherings. Why You Should Listen: If you're apprehensive about upcoming family gatherings due to past conflicts or strained relationships, this podcast offers guidance and encouragement. We focus on fostering peace and reconciliation, in line with the teachings of Romans 12:18 - "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Segment Information: The Spirit of Reconciliation: We highlight the importance of reconciling and extending grace during the holidays, acknowledging the challenges, and offering ways to navigate them. Taking the First Step: This segment encourages listeners to be the initiators of reconciliation, emphasizing the role of humility and forgiveness. Setting Realistic Expectations: We discuss setting achievable goals for reconciliation, understanding that it might not always lead to immediate closeness. Bible Verses: Romans 12:18 (NIV) - "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Luke 15:20 (NIV) - "So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." Uncommen Questions: How can you prepare yourself with a spirit of peace and reconciliation in holiday gatherings? What steps can you take to reconnect with estranged family members or friends? Uncommen Challenge: Before your next family gathering, reach out to a relative or friend with whom you have a strained relationship. This could be a simple message expressing your desire for a peaceful and enjoyable time during the holidays or an offer to talk and clear any misunderstandings. Take this step and share your experiences with us. Join us in this journey of finding peace and reconciliation during the holiday season, embracing the true spirit of Christmas in our relationships. Consider donating to Uncommen this season!

https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Unwrapped-1.mp3   The Christmas season often arrives with a flurry of activities, leaving us more frazzled than festive. Our calendars become as packed as the malls, filled with events, gatherings, and last-minute shopping. However, it's crucial to remember that a crowded schedule can lead to a cluttered mind and a weary heart. In this Man-to-Man podcast, Thriving Christmas, let's aim to not just 'do Christmas,' but to "Thrive Christmas." Key Takeaways: Prioritizing What Matters: The Bible, in Ephesians 5:15-16, teaches us to walk wisely and make the best use of our time. This wisdom extends to our holiday planning. Are we chasing the perfect Christmas at the expense of our peace? Evaluating Traditions: Examine your holiday customs. Do they bring joy and draw you closer to your loved ones and God, or have they become just another task? Simplifying Celebrations: The essence of Christmas is found in the humble birth of Jesus Christ, not in grandeur. Simplifying our approach can lead to a more meaningful holiday. Why You Should Listen: If you find yourself overwhelmed by the holiday hustle, this podcast is for you. We discuss how to navigate the season with intention, focusing on what truly matters. It's about creating a Christmas that rejuvenates your spirit rather than depletes it. Bible Verse: Ephesians 5:15-16 - "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil." Segment Information: Setting Priorities: We'll talk about identifying the non-negotiables of your Christmas and how to say no to less essential commitments. Reassessing Traditions: This segment focuses on reevaluating holiday traditions and letting go of those that no longer serve their purpose. Simplifying for Significance: We discuss how simplifying your Christmas can help focus on the season's true meaning - the birth of Jesus. Uncommen Questions: What activities or commitments can you let go of this Christmas to make room for what truly matters? How can prioritizing your schedule around God's guidance bring peace to your holiday season? Uncommen Challenge: Choose one event or commitment you've planned for this Christmas season and evaluate its importance. If it doesn't contribute to the joy or the true meaning of the season, consider letting it go. Start this holiday season by thriving Christmas. Join us in embracing a Christmas of intention and peace, focusing on the moments that truly matter and the miracle of Christ's birth. Consider donating to Uncommen this season!

Feel like time is slipping away? Hard to focus on the now? This Man to Man podcast: The Gift of Time is about how every second counts. We talk about being thankful for your time and how to make it work for you. Discover how the gift of time plays a role in your every day life.

Ever forget to say "thanks" to important people like family or friends? You're not alone. This Man to Man podcast: True Worth of Relationships digs into the many ways gratitude can boost your life. From family and friends to work and your local community, saying "thank you" can go far.

Ever think small acts of kindness don't make a big difference? Think again. In this Man to Man podcast: Gratitude in the Little Things, we talk about how even tiny "thank yous" can have a huge impact. It's like throwing a pebble in a pond and watching the ripples spread.

Ever find it hard to say "thanks" when life is tough? You're not alone. In this Man to Man podcast: Showing Gratitude With Thankfulness, we dig into the Bible to find big lessons on being thankful, even when the going gets rough.

Ever find yourself feeling down or stressed out? Believe it or not, being thankful could be the game-changer. In this kick-off Man to Man Podcast, we dig deep into why gratitude matters and how it can turn your day, or even your life, around for the better.

Worry about what's next? You're not alone. But get this: 85% of what we fret about never happens! In this Man to Man podcast: “Worry Less, Pray More”, we talk about trusting God when you can't see what's coming.

Ever find yourself facing fear and looking for courage in the Bible? You're not alone. Fear is a common human experience, but the Bible offers guidance and inspiration to help us overcome it. In this Man to Man podcast: Courage in the Bible, we dive into the power of meditating on stories of biblical courage and God's reassuring words.