3. Authentic men speak kind and gentle words. The Apostle Paul used marriage to describe the amazing mystery of the Church and Christ. He suggested that in the same manner that the Word of God cleanses the Church from spot, wrinkle, or blemish a husband speaks words that cleanses his wife—removing spot, wrinkles, and blemishes (Eph. 5:27).
So, the words of a husband literally cultivate his wife and she bears the fruit of his words. Of course, the woman has a responsibility to receive those words but her husband sows the seeds of his words for a determined harvest. When a husband says, “I love you,” or “You’re beautiful,” or “I am proud of you,” or “You make that dress look pretty,” he is speaking kind and comforting words that cleanse her from the constant barrage of negative messages that she is getting from modern culture. Her beauty radiates from the purity of her unblemished spirit.
This is in stark contrast to religious rules and regulations that attempt to cover up women (sometimes literally) and add no value to holiness. A wife’s beauty and modesty are the reflection of her husband’s kind and gentle words.
Unfortunately, there are men and even religions that brutally treat women with constant intimidation and beatings. I can assure you that God is not pleased with such treatment. God finds the mistreatment of women abhorrent. The earth trembles beneath the feet of a married woman who remains unloved (Prov. 30:23).
If a man raises his hand against a woman, he has forfeited authentic manhood.
Look at how Jesus demonstrated his attitude toward a woman who was threatened with stoning. He responded with skillful wisdom by kneeling and writing in the dirt. What did he write? We don’t know for certain but it could have been the prophet Jeremiah’s words, “They that depart from me shall be written in the earth.” (Jeremiah 17:13) In any case, the misogynists turned away and departed. Jesus simply spoke kind and comforting words, “Neither do I condemn you.”
Our representation of authentic manhood is not to be like the religious zealots who hold contempt for women but rather one of Christlikeness. One who rescues her from accusers and elevates her with kind and comforting words.
FivestarMan was founded in 2008 by Neil Kennedy. Kennedy has passionately promoted God’s Word for 25-plus years of ministry. He is known for practically applying biblical principles that elevate people to a new level of living. As a business, church, ministry and life consultant, Kennedy has helped others strategize the necessary steps to reach their full potential.
For the original article, visit fivestarman.com.
Joseph Mattera 
BJ Foster 
Shelby Bowen 
