Strength in Intimacy: A Shepherd’s First Prayer

Men, your family doesn’t need perfect prayers — they need a shepherd who’s willing to step into God’s presence, even when the words don’t come easy.

God’s Promise

James 4:8 – Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.

Intimacy isn’t a word most men would use to describe themselves. It’s a word we often associate with softness or meekness—traits the world rarely attaches to strong leaders. But when we look at Jesus, the ultimate Shepherd and King of all Kings, what stands out isn’t just His power. It’s His intimacy with the Father.

When I first became a Christian, I had no idea what it meant to pray. Prayer felt intimidating, almost foreign. I didn’t grow up in a home where we prayed together or talked much about Jesus. Religion was more about rules, ceremonies, and following what the higher-ups said. Prayer was something left to the professionals—the ones who were supposedly closer to God than the rest of us.

But when Jesus got hold of my life, I wanted to learn. And like most things I commit to, I dove in headfirst. I joined a men’s morning prayer group—6:00 a.m. sharp. The plan was simple: we would gather and pray. Except I didn’t.

I couldn’t.

I sat there, morning after morning, saying nothing. My heart pounded every time the prayers went around the room. Each man took his turn, praying with ease, while I sat in silence, wondering what was wrong with me.

Finally, I decided enough was enough. One morning, I gave myself a full-on pep talk. Today was going to be the day I prayed out loud. No more hiding. No more fear.

The time came. The prayers started. One man prayed, then the next. The room was filled with the steady rhythm of men talking to their Father. My turn came. I froze. The silence hung in the air, and I panicked. So I blurted out the first thing that came to mind.

I prayed about a fish.

The day before, I had read an article about a newly discovered deep-sea fish. Scientists had finally found it, though the fish had likely been there all along—waiting, unseen, in the depths. That’s what I prayed about. I thanked God for the fish. My first public prayer was about a fish.

I laugh about it now—loudly—but back then, it felt awkward and embarrassing. Yet, here’s the truth I’ve come to know in the years since: prayer isn’t about perfection. It’s not about impressing anyone, even yourself. It’s about showing up. It’s about speaking to your Shepherd, no matter how clumsy the words might be.

Over 15 years later, prayer has become the air I breathe. As a chaplain and minister, I pray daily with others—often at their hardest moments. But even when no one else is around, I’m talking with Jesus. Not just asking for things, but sitting with Him, thanking Him, listening, worshiping in the everyday conversations of life.

That’s intimacy. That’s the heart of a man who shepherds his family well. A man who knows his strength doesn’t come from being the loudest or the toughest, but from walking closely with his Shepherd.

Intimacy with Jesus is where we find our power as men. It’s where our strength to lead, serve, and love our families comes from. Not from a position of pride or control, but from being a man who is known by God and who knows God right back.

Men, don’t let fear or pride keep you from prayer. If your first prayer is about a fish, so be it. Your Shepherd isn’t grading your performance—He’s welcoming you into His presence. And in His presence, you’ll find all the strength you’ll ever need to shepherd your home with love and wisdom.

Now where did I put my fishing pole?

Shepherding in Action: Today’s Value

Vulnerability strengthens our character as shepherd leaders by teaching us that true strength comes when we fully rely on Jesus and allow Him to guide every step.

Reflection Questions for Shepherd Leaders

1. What’s one fear or hesitation that’s kept you from praying out loud, either with your family or other men? How can you take one small step to overcome that fear today?
2. Jesus often withdrew to pray alone (Luke 5:16). How can you intentionally set aside time to meet with your Shepherd this week?
3. How can modeling honest, imperfect prayer for your family help them see your faith in action?

Bible References

• James 4:8 – Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.
• Luke 5:16 – But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
• Matthew 6:6 – But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Prayer for the Man of the Shepherd

Father, thank You for inviting me into a relationship with You, even when my words stumble and my heart feels unsure. Help me draw near to You with the confidence that You welcome me, not because I’m perfect, but because I’m Yours. Teach me to lead my family by first walking closely with You. Amen.

My Personal Journey

These weekday reflections flow from my time in God’s Word. I invite you to join me and other Men of the Shepherd in building Christ-centered homes—leading, discipling, and serving like Jesus. If these reflections encourage you, please like, share, and pass them on so more men can grow in their calling.

To follow along with the weekday readings, check out our Weekday Reflections Playlist on YouTube or subscribe to the YouTube channel here.

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