7 Things Strong Christian Men Do Differently
- Britt Mooney Contributing Writer
- Updated May 20, 2024
Time to man up. When most people hear this, they may think of traditionally masculine things. Playing football. Fixing an engine.
There is nothing wrong with these activities. However, the biblical idea of manhood gives us different insights. Simply looking at people like David and Jesus throughout Scripture reveals not only what strong men do, but how they do it. Christian men have a deep, eternal motivation for life which brings passion to a man’s activities.
The motivation does not only change the way their individual lives work. When they lead the way in church life, men encourage others to serve with humility and worship with abandon. Strong, godly men inspire children and families.
Here are seven things strong Christian men do differently.
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1. Serve with Humility
Slide 1 of 7Strong Christian men serve with humility, following the example of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Matthew 20:28). They recognize that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in humble service to others rather than seeking positions of power or recognition.
Philippians 2:3-4 instructs us to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but to consider others better than ourselves, looking not only to our own interests but also to the interests of others. Strong Christian men embody this principle by humbly prioritizing the needs of others above their own desires, serving with selflessness and compassion.
1 Peter 5:5-6 underscores the importance of humility in relationships, stating, “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” God gives grace and help to those who recognize their dependence on God. God’s help is the greatest strength. Not only do we receive the Father’s help, he promises to exalt us when appropriate.
By serving with humility, strong Christian men reflect the character of Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8).
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2. Pray with Perseverance
Slide 2 of 7Many people begin to pray, but we want to quit if the answer takes time. Strong Christian men pray with perseverance, persistently seeking God’s will and intervention in their lives and for others. Men can trust their strength and independence to solve problems, but God’s power changes hearts and brings transformation. Strong men understand the priority of prayer, trusting in God’s faithfulness and timing to answer their petitions according to his purposes.
Luke 18:1-8 tells the parable of the persistent widow who kept coming to the unjust judge, seeking justice against her adversary. Though the judge initially ignored her, he eventually granted her request because of her persistence. Jesus concludes the parable by encouraging his disciples to persevere in prayer, assuring them that God, who is merciful, will surely answer their prayers. James 5:16 emphasizes the effectiveness of fervent prayer, stating, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Strong Christian men understand the power of prayer to bring about God’s blessings. They remain righteous and obedient while praying fervently, trusting God’s sovereignty and goodness to work all things together for good (Romans 8:28).
As was his custom, Jesus went away to pray (Luke 22:39). By praying with perseverance, strong Christian men demonstrate their dependence on God, trust in his promises, and commitment to seeking his will above all else.
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3. Worship with Abandon
Slide 3 of 7King David never lost a battle as a warrior. Yet the root of his strength in battle can be seen through his praise.
Strong Christian men approach worship with abandon, expressing their devotion to God wholeheartedly and without reservation. They understand that true worship involves surrendering their lives, desires, and emotions to God, allowing his presence to transform and renew them.
Psalm 100:2-4 exhorts us to worship the Lord with gladness, to come before him with joyful songs, and to enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Strong Christian men embrace worship as a joyful expression of gratitude and reverence for God’s goodness, faithfully lifting their voices in praise and adoration. Romans 12:1 urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as their true and proper worship. Strong Christian men embody this principle by presenting themselves fully to God in worship, surrendering their wills and desires to his perfect plan and purpose for their lives.
Furthermore, John 4:23-24 emphasizes the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth, for he seeks true worshipers who will worship him this way. Strong Christian men engage in authentic worship rooted in a genuine relationship with God, allowing the Holy Spirit to move in their hearts and lead them into deeper intimacy.
By worshiping with abandon, Christian men demonstrate their devotion to God, reverence for His majesty, and desire to glorify Him in all they do.
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4. Stand for What Is Right
Slide 4 of 7Throughout the Bible and history, strong men stand for what is good and godly. In a society resistant to the Good News, strong Christian men still stand up and speak out for what is right, regardless of personal cost. They adhere unwaveringly to biblical principles and moral integrity, guided by their faith in God’s truth and justice, even in the face of opposition or adversity.
Ephesians 6:13 encourages us to put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes, they may be able to stand their ground. Strong Christian men recognize their spiritual battle and are resolved to stand firm in their convictions, trusting in God's strength to uphold them.
Daniel 3 recounts the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refused to bow down to the golden image and were thrown into the fiery furnace. Despite the threat of death, they remained steadfast in their allegiance to God (Daniel 3:17-18), whether God saved them or not (he did). Strong Christian men draw inspiration from this example of unwavering faithfulness to God, demonstrating their readiness to endure suffering or persecution for righteousness’s sake.
Proverbs 29:25 reminds us that man’s fear will be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. Strong Christian men trust in God’s protection and sovereignty, prioritizing obedience to his commands over the approval or acceptance of others.
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5. Sacrifice for the Good of Others
Slide 5 of 7Strong Christian men demonstrate a unique willingness to sacrifice for the good of others, mirroring the love of Jesus Christ, who gave his life for the redemption of humanity (John 15:13). They embody Christ’s selflessness and compassion, prioritizing the needs and well-being of others above their own interests or comfort.
Many men give their lives for worthless things, whether their own fame or another worldly cause. God calls us to give our lives for something real and lasting, the Kingdom of God, where we find our true lives (Matthew 16:25). Love seeks the good for others. God defines good, and the ultimate benefit remains eternal. Strong men sacrifice to bring life to others and receive their eternal reward from the Father.
Matthew 20:28 highlights Jesus’ example of servanthood, stating, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Strong Christian men follow Jesus' example by sacrificially offering their time, resources, and talents to improve their communities and advance God’s kingdom. Romans 12:1 calls us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as our true and proper worship. And just as God raised Christ from the dead, godly men trust they will also enjoy resurrection life through submitting unto God.
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6. Give Generously
Slide 6 of 7Pastors hesitate to teach about financial giving, and congregants may cringe when challenged to share their resources. However, strong Christian men willingly give their time, resources, and talents to bless others and advance the Kingdom of God. Their generosity reflects the abundance of God’s grace in their lives to steward his blessings for others. Godly men give lavishly since God so extravagantly loved them first.
2 Corinthians 9:7 encourages us to give generously: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Strong Christian men embrace this principle by giving joyfully and generously, motivated by their love for God and their desire to express gratitude for his provision.
God repays those who give generously, as Proverbs 11:25 declares, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Strong Christian men understand the reciprocal nature of generosity – as they give generously to others, they are enriched and blessed by God’s provision and favor. Luke 6:38 teaches, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Scripture teaches us the principle of sowing and reaping, and strong Christian men trust and live by this principle.
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7. Walk in Purity
Slide 7 of 7True discipline happens when no one is watching. In a world of temptations like porn and greed, strong Christian men embody personal purity, adhering to a high standard of moral integrity and holiness in their thoughts, words, and actions. They understand the importance of maintaining purity in all areas of their lives, recognizing that it reflects their commitment to honoring God.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 teaches us to abstain from sexual immorality and to live in holiness and honor, stating, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable.” Strong Christian men guard their hearts and minds against impurity and pursue holiness in their relationships and conduct.
Psalm 119:9-11 emphasizes the importance of living a pure life according to God’s word, declaring, “How can a young person stay pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Strong Christian men prioritize studying and applying God’s word in their lives, allowing it to guide their thoughts, decisions, and behaviors toward purity and righteousness. 1 Timothy 4:12 encourages us to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Strong Christian men understand the impact of their private and public actions on those they influence.
We need strong men in our world today. While many focus on toxic masculinity and its abuses, the solution is strong Christian men who live holy and loving lives as husbands, fathers, brothers, sons, brothers, and coworkers. In every arena of life, we need men who have a positive impact through their integrity, compassion, self-sacrifice, and speaking what is right.
Peace.
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Britt Mooney lives and tells great stories. As an author of fiction and non-fiction, he is passionate about teaching ministries and nonprofits the power of storytelling to inspire and spread truth. Mooney has a podcast called Kingdom Over Coffee and is a published author of We Were Reborn for This: The Jesus Model for Living Heaven on Earth as well as Say Yes: How God-Sized Dreams Take Flight.