The passion and horsepower that throb in men can easily run amok.
Look at the allegations from Blake Lively about her “It Ends with Us” co-star, Justin Baldoni, to see another example of male misbehavior.
Please know that I’m writing from a man’s point of view. I realize that some negative female energy can cause serious issues, but let’s face the facts: men cause most of the trouble in the world. According to the United States Bureau of Justice, men are six times more likely than women to be violent offenders. Women account for only fourteen percent of violent crimes.
I’ve said it before: we have a man problem in our world. And it’s not just in the area of headline-making violent offenses. Men’s engines can misfire into subtle cruelty, sneaky abuse, creepy stalking, twisted appetites, and antagonizing hatred.
A sense of self-righteousness can stoke the pursuit of hurtful conquests: Show up the other guy. Take advantage of the woman you desire. Make sure you have the last word. Destroy your enemy online. Yell loudly. Posture pridefully. Behave crudely.
Men can misuse their strength and drive, resulting not in a display of masculinity, but depravity.
Is there a better way?
I’ll never forget the first time I read ancient words about how men are called to treat women. Referring to husbands, the author said, “The husband provides leadership to his wife the way Christ does to his church, not by domineering but by cherishing.” “Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. Christ’s love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything he does and says is designed to bring the best out of her” (The Message, Ephesians 5:25-27, emphasis added).
Men use their ambition, competitiveness, drive, and passion to produce successful careers, exciting games, energetic innovation, deep thinking, and loving pursuits. What if male passion was used to excel in kindness, respect, self-control, collaboration, and thoughtfulness?
What if male horsepower was harnessed for godliness—to bring the best out of others for their good and benefit—for both women and men alike?
It would be a better world.
(Explore the pathway of doing good as a man in Faith Notes: A Christ-Centered Survival Kit for Young Men)
