There’s so much talk today about what it takes to be a man. Gender roles in our culture are probably more confused today than they ever have been. And in this environment, it’s sometimes hard to know what being a man is all about.

One idea of manhood that has been popular for a long time is the macho man. This guy is a rugged cowboy who’s tough, confident, and always in control. But the ’60s brought us a new image of manhood that was mellow instead of macho — the “sensitive man.” This is the guy who is “in touch with his feelings” and isn’t afraid to let his feminine side out.

These two images of manhood are still around. But whether you’re macho or mellow, the Scriptures are clear that every man should be maxed out for Jesus Christ, wholly sold out to him and giving him the best he has. We get a glimpse of the kind of men God is looking for in 2 Chronicles 16:9,

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.

Whether you’re macho or mellow, the Scriptures are clear that every man should be maxed out for Jesus Christ, wholly sold out to him and giving him the best he has.

If you and I are going to be successful as Christian men, it means we have to put Christ first and live fully committed to him. And once you know the God-given purpose for your life and are fired with a holy passion to accomplish it, there isn’t anything the devil can throw your way that will stop you!