What Maketh a Man?

1 Ki 2:2 '...So be strong, show youself a man.'
King David on his deathbead, used to above words to challenge his son Solomon. He stressed the connection between acting capable and being strong.

1 Cor 16:13 'Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.'
Paul's charge to the men of Corinth. He wasnt telling them to be arrogant or to feel the need to prove themselves to others. He was encouraging them to act legtimately confident as they contend with the challenges of life. And it was an instruction, not a suggestion.

Being strong and coming through for others is something (not everything) essential in masculinity and the world/society has sadly twisted that view. Strength is a gift from God and there is more to it than being PHYSICALLY strong.

Every guy is born with a an essential strength that is central to his heart and unique in its expression. The act of expressing strength could be in physcially heroic measures to protect or rescue someone in harm's way. Other times it could be shown by speaking up or making a difficult choice. There are moments when quiet strength is expressed through a look or a presence that tells others that he means business.

However its expressed, its really about stepping up when called for. Its about assertiveness and movement versus passivity and paralysis. Forging ahead and making tough and unpopular decisions. To stand one's ground in face of strong oppostion. Above all, its about rising up and being big enough to admit when we're wrong.

However, masculine strength DOES NOT imply SUPERIORITY or greater value. Neither does it mean that guy has to cut out his gracious/humble and gentle side. Its as important for guys not to be gentle at the expense his strength, or the other way round.

There is nothing sexist or chauvinistic about this post. Both genders reflect the strength and tenderness of their creator. More so importantly, strength is an important starting point in making a man. Even mentioning that, loving God, putting Christ in the center of our lives, surrendering to God and submitting to his will is such a vital part in how a guy should be. (as well as girls)

Guys have taken enough of a bad rap already. Why toture ourselves somemore by being unedifying in our speech and thoughts, not honouring those around us and for that matter of fact hurting others... And even more so using the words 'we're guys' to cover up our own mistakes.

I admit that there are areas in my own life that definitely needs working on. Being a Man of God takes time and refinement

Maleness is not villanous. It's a reflection of God. There's no need to apologize for it but at the same time, there's always a need to be open and to see our own shortcomings and to repent.

Blessed are the pure in heart. For they will see God.