Authentic Masculinity
Like most young boys growing up, I thought that real men were defined by their physical strength or mental prowess….and that may indeed be partially true for some…However, as I have gotten older, I have learned much about true masculinity, and that it is actually found in a man’s “posture”…No, I’m not referring to walking and sitting in a straight and upright position (although that’s good as well).
No, I have discovered over my 39 years, and especially the last and most incredible 13 years with my wife, and the never-boring and always exciting last 7 years with my wonderful little girl, that it’s my “spiritual posture” that truly defines my masculinity as a man, as a husband, and as a father!
Let me briefly explain…My wife is a huge Natalie Grant fan. Natalie Grant is a famous Christian singer and songwriter. I have only recently become a true fan of Natalie Grant and her music, primarily through my wife’s iPod, as we spend time together.
You may be asking yourself “what in the world does a female Christian singer have to do with true masculinity…” Well, I’m glad you asked!”
It all goes back to that one word “posture!” Natalie Grant’s most recent release is entitled “I will not be moved.”
Read the lyrics I’ve copied below…
I have acted out
I have questioned Sovereignty
And had my share of doubt
And though sometimes my prayers feel like
They’re bouncing off the sky
The hand I hold won’t let me go
And is the reason why…
I will fall down
But I will not be moved
I will make mistakes
I will face heartache
But I will not be moved
On Christ the Solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
I will not be moved
Many times before
My life has been like broken glass
And I have kept the score
Of all my shattered dreams and though it seemed
That I was far too gone
My brokenness helped me to see
It’s grace I’m standing on
I will fall down
But I will not be moved
I will make mistakes
I will face heartache
But I will not be moved
On Christ the Solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
I will not be moved
Has been a badge I’ve worn
Though I have been torn
I will not be moved
I know this idea of submission to gain strength and wisdom is quite paradoxical…However, the Hebrew writer recorded it best in Hebrews 2:7… “For a little while you made him lower than the angels, and you crowned him with glory and honor.”
I can only find my true and authentic masculinity by submitting my life and yielding it to Christ everyday…Then, and only then, I will not be moved!
