Men prioritize family, work and health over faith and spirituality, according to a newly released survey commissioned by Promise Keepers, a Christian organization for men.
The poll, conducted by California-based Barna Research Group, included 415 men chosen randomly and 200 men from Promise Keepers, who all identified themselves as "born-again Christian" or "active church attenders". The study found 85 percent of Christian men are not "spiritually challenged," according to a statement from Promise Keepers.
Respondents were comprised of residents in Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, Dallas, Baltimore and Atlanta.
Survey-takers were asked to choose from among the categories listed what their top challenge was in life. Forty-two percent of men said their family and children are the top challenge in their lives, 39 picked career/money, and 20 said health concerns made their list, leaving one in eight men who focused on spirituality.
"It's certainly clear to us that we have a great mission field in front of us in reaching the men of America," said Tom Fortson, Ph.D., president and CEO of Promise Keepers, in the statement. "Much, much more needs to be done to engage men with their spiritual side, and then to see them make an impact on their families, churches and communities. We've only scratched the surface."
According to the study, six in 10 Christian men are "marginally satisfied" with their church experience.
Only 42 percent would turn to Christian friends during a time of crisis even though most had three good friends who were believers.
Over half the respondents had heard of Promise Keepers, founded in 1990. Members of the ministry keep agree to keep seven promises, which include honoring Jesus Christ through prayer and obedience, living a life following Biblical values, building strong families through love, and supporting missions.
"We are gratified that so many men who call themselves Christians or who attend church know about our work," Fortson said. "Still, we are looking for ways to expand our influence not only in the church, but into the broader society as well."
Promise Keepers will continue its work in reaching out to men in an upcoming conference where Fortson will be the keynote speaker. Schedule on May 1, "Uprising: The Revolution of a Man's Soul” will be held at Vineyard Christian Fellowship in Grove City, Ohio.
