Most men want to be good and to know they have what it takes. But unfortunately, we’re not given many meaningful models to show us the way. Rediscovering the marks of manhood allows us to continue growing toward our potential.
It’s said a picture is worth a thousand words. And this is why images are so powerful in shaping our imagination and who we become.
When Jesus taught he often used basic everyday illustrations to communicate deep spiritual truths.
For instance, he taught we’re the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
And while these images don’t provide precise instructions for every situation, they do help to reorientate our way of being and approach to life.
And they’re robust enough that we can simply encourage each other to be salt and light and we know how to start applying these concepts.
We need similar images for our growth into manhood.
And thankfully we don’t have to look too far. Some are as close as our very body, while others can be observed throughout nature.
For example, God has revealed a lot about the nature of masculinity in the design of the male body and the penis in particular.
Likewise, the stories we tell ourselves also include many hints and images. Battle and romance, wits and power are all common themes in the stories we love and point toward a deeper reality for us as well.
But these images are only helpful once we have the eyes to see.
We limit both our inner peace and impact in the world when we don’t have meaningful images to show us the way.
Discover the marks of manhood and live in the fullness of God’s design for you.
Photo by Leonadro Da Vinci, Public Domain
