The Magnificence of Masculinity

How men may live the lives they were called & commissioned to by the Lord...

Hopefully, the term "toxic masculinity" has been used so much that it is on its way out! This damaging term has been synonymous with any kind of traditional masculinity that seeks to lead with manly initiative, the masculine protection of others and providing strong guidance or wisdom from a patriarch. The intended consequences are obvious and destructive: weak leadership, confusion and guilt. These are all disastrous for the growth and development faith, family and freedom here in America and around the world!

Some people are toxic...of, course! But, both men and women can be toxic. Men and women can be critical, demanding, abusive, angry, bitter and more. This may be the result of a lack of self-discipline; little to no self-examination; no self-control; insecurities, fear and more. But, again, these attributes may be found in both men and women! Toxic or destructive attitudes and actions are not helpful to anyone and certainly does not glorify God.

Since it has become trendy to put down males in our culture - it should be noted that not all of us believe this is a positive trend! There are some trends in our culture that are short lived and have no real lasting impact. However, some have very damaging consequences. Putting down or making fun of confident and capable men is not healthy!

Strong men served as founding fathers of this great nation. Traditional, Christian men wrote our founding documents and then started universities, hospitals, churches and more. Courageous men fought in wars to defend freedom in America and around the world. Good men should be honored...just like good women should be honored! Femininity and masculinity should both be protected! Why? Because God made us in His image...male and female!

So, what does a truly masculine man look like? How does he live his life in the world he was placed in? What are his relationships like...with other men and women? Since approximately 50% of our population is male...it is worth looking into. If authentic masculinity is worth looking into - then it is paramount that we go to the Source...Scripture! What does God say about masculinity or biblical manhood? And, to Whom should we look to model ourselves after? How about the Lord Jesus, Himself...He walked this earth for over 30 years?! So, let's take a brief look at what our Lord tells or shows us concerning masculinity in the Bible!

For the sake of simplicity...I will focus only on two attributes of masculinity that I believe stand out in the Bible. There are many more, but for the sake of this article I will give attention to only two:

First, Sacrificial Love! Jesus left the throne of heaven to experience the excruciating pain of the cross...on our behalf! The Supreme Man was the perfect example of sacrificial love. "He who knew no sin, became sin on our behalf," When the world was at it's worst...Christ Jesus was at His best! All the sin of those who call on His name fell upon Him...at the cross. Therefore, as followers of Christ who are called to imitate Him - we, as men, should exemplify sacrificial love toward others.

A masculine man serves others - beginning with his wife. A man should honor the dignity of his wife. He puts his masculinity on display when he treats his wife with respect, honor, compassion and care. A wife who knows that her husband loves her can rest in his devotion to her. She begins to glow with fulfillment and joy. Masculine men take good care of their wives knowing they are created in the image of God. Authentic manhood cherishes the beauty and femininity of women. Thus, he treats his wife as his partner, lover and friend. He lovingly leads her with the joy of being her husband. He takes her hand and walks her through the ups and downs of life.

Subsequently, he is gladly willing to sacrifice for her livelihood, growth and more. He will sacrifice himself for her benefit. Anyone that wants to get to her...must go through him first.

Additionally, in the home, he lovingly sacrifices for his children. He goes out of his way to teach, coach, correct and model true masculinity to his children. He passionately speaks the truth of the gospel to his sons and daughters. He gives up doing what he would like to do in order to be a servant leader to his children. His goal is to raise boys and girls to become men and women who love, honor and fear God. He knows he is the leader of his children...so he is strong, yet gentle. He is firm, yet compassionate. He leads his children, but is also a cheerleader for them as they grow giving them encouragement through the trials of growing up!

Second, Strength. The truly masculine man has a strength of conviction, courage and commitment that provides protection to those he loves, as well as those who need a strong presence. Biblical manhood is on full display in the lives of men like Moses, Joshua, Gideon, Joseph, David, Daniel, Paul, Stephen, John and more. These men could be counted on when times got tough. They exemplified fortitude, faith, endurance and determination.

These men were not perfect...they had their own failures. But, when confronted with their failure - they owned up to it and moved forward - decisively. They took stands against evil. They confronted evildoers. They risked their lives in order to be a blessing to others. Genuine masculinity is found in men who will not turn their backs on God or others when the rubber hits the road! They don't panic when bad things happen. Instead, they quietly and confidently move forward to be part of the solution.

Men, you may call yourself masculine because you hit the weights in the gym, play sports, go hunting or fishing, etc. But, do you stand up to evil? Are you ashamed of the gospel? Masculinity that matters goes beyond the gym and the woods. True masculinity lovingly sacrifices for the good of his wife and/or others around him. Biblical manhood is found in the man that lives his life with godly fortitude and risky faith. Real men are at the ready to put their lives on the line for the mental, physical or spiritual health of others. They are providers and protectors. They do not look out for their own best interest. Instead, they intentionally search for ways bless and grow others - not to make themselves feel better or to receive anything in return, but to help equip and encourage others with conviction and courage.

True masculinity is essential in the home. It is essential in our communities and cities. Authentic masculinity is a non-negotiable in a healthy nation. Remember, weak men create hard times. Don't contribute to our hard times. Be part of the solution...give sacrificial love and strength! Be courageous, honest and optimistic. Be a leader - a leader that others respect. Don't get your cue from cultural entertainment, social media, etc. Go to Scripture and follow God's lead!

Bruce