It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

Paul could’ve left it out. He could’ve skipped the part about Epaphroditus getting sick and nearly dying. After all, the man had just traveled 800 miles to serve Paul in prison. He had taken on a mission full of risk and sacrifice. Wouldn’t it be more impressive to paint him as invincible?

But Paul doesn’t hide it. He highlights it. He says it twice.

Why? Because real masculinity doesn’t pretend. It doesn’t hide weakness or gloss over pain. It tells the truth—and then leans on the grace of God.

We live in a culture that says “real men” don’t struggle. Don’t cry. Don’t ask for help. But that’s not what the Bible shows us. Jesus—the most complete man who ever lived—wept at the death of His friend. He sweated drops of blood before going to the cross. He was deeply moved, full of sorrow, and willing to bear it all.

You are not disqualified by your weakness. The truth is, you’re already weak. We all are. That’s why we need Jesus.

You may be a college guy feeling lost in the noise of expectations. A husband weighed down with guilt or fear. A father carrying silent pressure to be everything for everyone. Or an older man wondering if he still matters. No matter where you are, you need to know this: It’s okay to not be okay.

The Gospel isn’t for the self-sufficient. It’s for the broken. And the most manly thing you can do in a moment of weakness is run to Christ and let Him carry the weight. You weren’t made to pretend you’re fine. You were made to be honest, receive mercy, and then strengthen others with the same mercy you’ve received.

Reflection:
Where are you pretending to be okay when you’re really not? Who’s one person you could talk to about it, and what would it look like to take that step this week?