Men enjoy freedom – the ability to navigate life without restrictions. And for many, this is the mark of manhood – the freedom to live life and not have to answer to anyone.
While appealing, mature manhood is not merely the freedom to do what we want. Our freedom is not all about us. To be sure, mature freedom comes with a relational responsibility.
We are relational beings, so whether we are married or single, we have a responsibility to actively participate in and care for the relationships around us.
Certainly, there are times when we need to get away and do our own thing. There is wisdom here.
However, our desire to be free is never an excuse to neglect our relational responsibilities.
Do you neglect the interests of your friends so that you are “free” to focus exclusively on your own interests? And what about in marriage? Do you withdraw from the world of your wife so that you are “free” to remain in your comfort zone?
These are not good uses of our freedom.
By all means, exercise your freedom to pursue those things important to you, but use this freedom wisely.
Let it restore and renew you so that you are free to bring your strength and life back into your relationships.
This is mature freedom – to be unrestricted in our love for each other.
