The bible is not only a source of faith and guidance, but it also has a lot to say about being a man as well. In the bible, God outlines a blueprint for manhood that mandates men to live a moral life and serve their families and community. A man was intended to be the protector and provider of his family and church and lead by example in his behavior and words.
The bible teaches men to be obedient to God’s instructions and laws. In the book of Exodus, Moses advices men to follow the laws of God and warns them about the consequences of not doing so. In Proverbs, the bible outlines a man’s responsibility to remain faithful and not deceive or lie. Similarly, in Colossians 3:18-19, men are admonished to be obedient to their wives.
Not only is a man expected to be obedient and wise, but he also has a responsibility to be generous. In the book of Proverbs, a man is instructed to give what he is able, help those in need, and share the blessings of his labors with others. In the book of Corinthians, a man is urged to give to the church and share generously with the poor. From these examples we can gather that the bible extols generous behavior as a virtue for men.
The bible also speaks about a man’s responsibility to develop and maintain self-control. In Proverbs, a man is advised to remain in control of his emotions and actions and not to be misled by his desires. Similarly, in Galatians 5:23, a man is urged to refrain from drunkenness and always remain in control of his mind and body. Men are expected to serve as moral exemplars of self-control and make decisions that honor God.
Finally, the bible teaches men to be humble and loving. With humility comes the understanding that one is not in control and needs to rely on God for strength. In Matthew 11:29, Jesus calls on men to take upon themselves a humble and gentle spirit. Furthermore, in Proverbs 12:25, a man is advised to be loving and kind whenever possible, always striving for peace over anger. Men are expected to show compassion and empathy and model what it means to embody love.
Family
In the bible, men are often instructed to care for and honor their parents. One of the Ten Commandments addresses this specifically when it states, “honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.”(Exodus 20:12). Men are also instructed to be loyal and trustworthy to their family members and to always strive to promote harmony and peace. The bible outlines a man’s obligation to take responsibility for his family, provide financially and protect them from harm and danger.
Work Life
The bible speaks extensively about a man’s responsibility to work hard and support his family. In Proverbs 24:27, the bible states, “Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.” Men are expected to work hard to provide for their family, to be honest in their labor, and to have a willing heart to serve others. Men are also instructed to use their skills to serve their community and to be wise and productive rather than lazy.
Self-Improvement
Finally, the bible calls on men to continually work on improving themselves. In Proverbs 14: 23, the bible states, “In all labor there is profit; but the talk of the lips tendeth only to want.” Men are asked to strive to be better and to think critically about their decisions and behavior. Men are to pursue knowledge, educate themselves, and become better spouses, fathers, and leaders in their communities.
Relationships
The bible also outlines guidelines for men to follow in regards to their relationships with their spouses, family, and community. Men are admonished to love their wives as themselves and respect their commitment to each other. Men are told to be loyal to their families and to help maintain harmony and unity within the household. The bible also calls on men to be wise and judicious in their relationships, understanding that trust is fragile and that gossip and slander need to be avoided.
Faith
The bible also speaks of a man’s responsibility to be faithful and lead his family in their faith. Men are to be devoted to God and serve as spiritual models for their children and community. The bible states that men must take their faith seriously, attend church, and meditate on scripture daily. Men are expected to use their faith as guidance and to relate their beliefs to their everyday life.
Leadership
The bible speaks of a man’s responsibility to lead. Men must use their skills and knowledge to serve their families and community. In the book of Proverbs, a man is encouraged to pursue wisdom and understanding. Men are instructed to be fair and just in their decisions and considerate of the feelings of others. Furthermore, the bible outlines a man’s responsibility to lead with humility and understanding, listened to the advice of wise men, and serve his people with integrity.
