The old comedy drama TV series M.A.S.H. focused on the friendships forged in a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War. Despite being surrounded by suffering, the characters exuded humor, sincerity, hope, and care to one another in a compelling way. Christian men should seek to form their own M.A.S.H. unit, instead using the acronym: Men Actively Seeking Him. Here are 5 tips for building your own MASH unit with other Christian men.

1.  Emphasize Camaraderie: Men need to feel a sense of joyful belonging before they are ready to “go deep.” Laugh, have fun, and do things you enjoy together.
   
2. Maintain High Expectations with Grace: Men need to be challenged to give their best yet feel safe when they fall short of expectations. Challenge, but do not shame each other.
3. Sacrifice Generously: When a brother is wounded, do what it takes to help restore him, even if it costs you something significant.
4. Celebrate Bravery, Not Foolishness: A strong Christian man doesn’t need men who affirm his foolish decision making, but in- stead, men who celebrate true bravery to do what is right, even when it is scary.
5. Seek God as a Unit: Study the Bible together, pray together, worship together, and serve others together.

Joining a cohort with IMPACT Players is an awesome way to start your own MASH unit, but it doesn’t need to end there! Get some guys together at your church, or in your workplace, or in your neighborhood and commit to be there for one another as you seek out the Lord as one.

Finding Your Band of Brothers: Forging Deep Friendships in a Shallow World is a new IMPACT Cohort study for men who want to grow as husbands, fathers, and leaders.  If you are a man who believes that forging deep friendships is important, we encourage you to join or start an IMPACT Cohort and participate in this 7 week study. Take action here.