God's Design for MenNäide

Providing Men

I once heard a professor talk about a research study that examined what traits women were looking for in men (this is clearly very important research!).

Putting aside that there needs to be some level of attraction that she feels for the man, and that many women want different things, there were three common qualities that women wanted across the board:

1. Intelligence, to make good choices.

2. Kindness, to treat her (and future children) well.

3. The ability to provide.

Wealth was not on the list; #3 wasn’t about a standard of living as much as it was about the man's potential to take care of a family.

We all admire men who work hard. As today's verse demonstrates, the man who can work and doesn’t is not commendable to us (or the Lord). Although there can be reasonable issues of illness, age, or disability whereby a man might have good reason not to work, beyond that, the “couch potato” man is one we want to give a good kick in the butt to get up, get moving, and start contributing!

It's not about how much you make or how high you climb; it’s ultimately about stewarding your God-given gifting and talent. Every man has been given abilities and is expected to use them. What has God given you to use to provide for your loved ones, and not only them, but also to charitably care for those in need around you (Proverbs 19:17)?

Jesus, the perfect Man, didn’t have a traditional job or family and gave His life to serving as a traveling rabbi. Still, we get glimpses of His provision for others in the story of the fish and the loaves (Matthew 14:13-21), turning water into wine (John 2:1-11), providing a miraculous catch of fish (Luke 5:1-11), and, of course, giving us everything we need for eternal life at the Cross (Romans 8:32). Jesus knew how to provide!

Men are at their best when they are working hard and using what God has given them to provide for their loved ones and those in need.

God’s design for men is that we would not be lazy or passive but use the talents He has given us to take care of our loved ones and help care for those who are struggling. It is an honor for men to bless others in this way.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for giving me the means to provide for my family and others! May my labors be fruitful and a blessing of provision to those who need it. Amen.

Reflection: Take a few moments today to give thanks for the ways God has given you to provide for your life and the lives of others.