Be A Man: The ABCs

1 Corinthians 16:13 says, "Act like a man" (HCSB), "act like men" (ESV, NASB), "be men of courage" (NIV '84), "be courageous" (NIV 2011, NRSV), "be resolute" (The Message).

1 Kings 2:2 says, "So be strong, show yourself a man" (NIV '84, ESV), "So be strong, act like a man," (NIV 2011), "Be strong and be courageous like a man" (HCSB), "Take courage and be a man" (NLT), "Be strong, be courageous" (NRSV), "be strong, show what you're made of" (The Message).

Courage is the mark of a man. No one likes to be a wimp, and no one likes wimps.
I told some brothers that the symbol of a man is courage without any hint of fear. It does not mean ignoring the present reality or that fear does not exist. But it does mean that even though fear is evident and palpable, a true man acts like a man with resolute courage. Courage will not be evident in the presence of fear, cowardice and timidity. A man fears no man; he fears God.

A man takes the initiative and takes risks without fearing failure. This does not mean being foolish and spontaneous without preparation or thoughtfulness. But it does mean that a man has guts, and he is not afraid of going up against the odds. He takes risks. He is not afraid of failure. He is not discouraged by setbacks or obstacles.

Courage comes from conviction, confidence and consecration to Christ. A man of courage is not an unthinking idiot. He consecrates his heart to God and entrusts his life to Christ and allows the Holy Spirit to live in and through his faith.

The ABCs of being a man:

• Action
• Bold, Brave
• Courage, Confidence, Conviction, Commitment and Consecration to Christ
• Decision, Delight
• Excellence
• Fruit
• Gospel of God's Grace; Gentle