How To Conquer The Volatile Goal Post Of Manhood

Upholding God's Standards in the Face of Earthly Challenges

In today’s ever-evolving society, the role of a man seems in flux. The benchmarks for success shift upwards, setting a relentless pace. In the professional realm or within the family, as soon as a man reaches one milestone, a bigger one looms. It demands even more effort and achievement.

Consider the example of a man who earns a lot, yet lives paycheck to paycheck. Over time, his earnings may have gone up. But, so have his expenditures. They trap him under the persistent weight of financial obligations. He looks rich on the outside. But, in private, he faces the harsh truth of empty finances.

For us, as Christian men, the stakes are even higher. Our measurement is against the ultimate standard, which is our Lord Jesus Christ. We must rise above the noisy world. We must do our duties and care for those entrusted to us. This is possible only by understanding the Bible's teachings about manhood.

Three Main Duties of the Christian Man

Outlined below are the foundational responsibilities every Christian man must embrace:

1. Provide

The Biblical mandate for a man is clear: to provide for his kin. This duty goes beyond just family. It includes all who are under his care.

"But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel." - [1 Timothy 5:8 KJV]

Paul’s words to Timothy are stern and unequivocal. Failing to provide is tantamount to denying one’s faith—a grave sin indeed. For those with families, the advice is simple: get the money to keep your household safe and fed. Society is breaking down. This may require learning to hunt and build.

Single men should gain skills that will help a future family. They need to be ready for anything.

2. Protect

Protection encompasses both physical and spiritual realms. Men must shield their families from outside dangers. They must be ready to act when needed.

But, the spiritual dimension is critical. Regular Bible reading, family worship, and prayer strengthen us. They protect us from anti-Christian forces.

The Apostle Paul advises us to wear the full armor of God. He advocates for a balanced approach. It uses both offense and defense in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18).

3. Ponder

The contemplation of God’s laws is fundamental to a Christian man’s life. The scriptures emphasize the need to meditate on God's Word. It gives guidance and wisdom.

"But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night." - Psalms 1

"And this book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night..." - Joshua 1:8

Immersing ourselves in the scriptures is essential. They contain the entirety of God’s revelations, preserved through generations. We must resist the flesh's distractions. We must dedicate ourselves to studying the Bible.

These three duties are to provide, protect, and ponder. They form the bedrock of a Christian man’s life. They define our core responsibilities amidst the cacophony of worldly expectations.

As we go through life, gaining insight and wisdom, our ability to do these duties will only grow. Let us focus on these biblical mandates. They are the true measures of our worth to God. They are above all other expectations.