Marvelously Masculine

Genesis 1:27, “So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them.” (NLT)

I have the distinct blessing of having a brother that I adore and a sister-in-law that is one of my best friends. The differences between boys and girls became very apparent as Barry and I had our boys, and Jason and Janet had their first 2 girls. The girls were so sweet, content and quiet. The boys were so energetic, impatient and LOUD! The cousin-love is unbeatable, though, and we enjoy each other's children tremendously. With all the testosterone in my house, I love shopping trips with my mom, Janet and the nieces.

God made both men and women in His image. Although He is spirit, He embodies all the wonderful qualities found in each sex. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the various aspects of His glory with which God has imbued each sex. This week, out of love and admiration, I’m going to start with the men. These traits, as in the female traits that will be discussed, are evidenced in both genders, but they shine brightest in the masculine.
God is a Warrior—Jehovah-Sabaoth, translated “the Lord of hosts”, is the name in Hebrew that describes God as the commander of the army of angels and the people of God. He is a god who protects His people fiercely and wages war against their spiritual enemies. Even from the time they’re very small, boys wage imaginary battles that display their warrior hearts. God created men in His image with courage and bravery that protects and defends with no thought to self. “The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (Psalm 46:7 NIV) Men, who needs you to be a warrior for them?
God is a Provider—Jehovah-Jireh, “God provides”, is a name that brings comfort to those in need. God provides for us physically, spiritually and emotionally. This gender trait is a high calling for men. Many of the people in our world need so much more than a paycheck. Being a true provider requires both strength and great sensitivity. It requires a work ethic that values provision of spiritual leadership, emotional empathy and material necessities. Men are called to imitate God “...who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” (I Timothy 6:17 NIV)
God is a Father—This may be one of the most difficult traits for our culture to grasp. In a society plagued with absentee, abusive and emotionally disconnected fathers, Satan has struck a huge blow to the glory of fatherhood. However, God exemplifies the type of Father that He calls each man to be. He is loving, compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in mercy. He calls His children into a loving, intimate relationship and sends “...the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Galatians 4:6b)
Being surrounded by males at my house is a blessing to me. They have a high calling to imitate and reflect the masculine character of God. As women, we are called to do the same. Next we celebrate sisterhood!

Respond:
God, we thank you for how rich our world is because of both male and female. Help us to support each other as your children reveal your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Apply:
If you are a man, consider your character traits. Are they ones that imitate and glorify God?

If you are a woman, find one trait that displays God’s character in a man that you love and praise it.