by Chris Steele

February 25, 2007

It really saddens me to see the startling portrayal of men and fathers on television these days. In years gone by, husbands and fathers set the bar high as wise, honest, hard working men who were respected and honored, because they loved their families and were concerned about their welfare. Today, many men are seen negatively as self-centered and pathetic. They are clueless as to what a good husband and father really is. Therefore they become the brunt of ridicule by their wives and bad-mouthing by their children. Now society places little value on the role of husbands and fathers.

As we think about this, we must consider what God has to say about the role of men in marriage, in the home, and in the church. To be a good man, a loving and respected husband and father, is a tremendous responsibility. It takes a lot of effort, concentration, willpower, knowledge, study, and then putting it all into practice and remaining steadfast while doing so. Paul said, “Husbands love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25); “And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4).

Men who allow society to fashion their way of thinking, just might as well toss in the towel. Men who allow God to guide them, will be men of strength, faith, and courage, as well as love, kindness, and compassion. God’s men will be leaders in their home and in the church. They will provide both the physical and spiritual blessings God gives through them.

So men, let's act like men — God-like men! Because strong men are men of God and men of the Word. As Paul said, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13). Let’s show the world that we are men of faith and love. Let’s begin at home by demonstrating to our wives and children that we truly love and care for them.