Proverbs 31 Man
June 15, 2025 | Bible Engagement ProjectWhat does it truly mean to be a godly man?
Proverbs 31:1-9: In it, King Lemuel shares wise instruction from his mother, a woman who clearly cared deeply about the kind of man and leader her son would become. She urges him not to waste his strength on women who destroy kings, and warns against the dangers of alcohol for those in positions of leadership — not because wine and beer are inherently evil, but because they can cloud judgment and lead to injustice. Instead, she calls him to a higher purpose: to be a voice for the voiceless, to stand up for the oppressed, and to judge with fairness and compassion.
Our culture offers countless, often conflicting answers. Some define manhood by strength, dominance, or success. Others by emotional detachment or self-sufficiency. But the Bible gives us a more complete and compelling vision.
Take David, for example — both a mighty warrior and a deeply emotional songwriter. He defeated Goliath with courage, yet also poured out his soul in psalms filled with honesty, grief, and worship. Or look at Jesus — strong and authoritative, boldly confronting the hypocrisy of religious leaders. Yet He also washed His disciples' feet, wept at the tomb of a friend, and lived with humility, simplicity, and sacrifice.
The point is clear: biblical manhood is not one-dimensional. It's not just about being tough or gentle, strong or kind — it's about being all of those things when they reflect the character of God. A godly man is one who walks in wisdom, leads with integrity, speaks up for the vulnerable, and serves with humility.
This is the vision Scripture gives us — one of strength paired with grace, leadership marked by service, and a life defined by righteousness, not recognition.
