Modern Masculinity: Beards, Bibles, and the Battle for What Matters

Masculinity is rooted in service.

According to the example of Christ.

Somewhere along the way, “masculinity” got a bad rap. Depending on who you ask, it’s either the cure for everything wrong with the world or the cause of it. I’ve seen both extremes—guys who think manhood is measured by the size of their biceps, and others who think it’s about being so “sensitive” that they apologize to their coffee mug for pouring the last drop.

Here’s the truth: Biblical masculinity isn’t about either of those things. It’s not chest-thumping dominance, and it’s not passive, couch-bound “nice guy” syndrome. It’s about responsibility. It’s about servant leadership. It’s about showing up—day after day—for your wife, your kids, your community.

As a husband and father, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that my role isn’t just to provide—it’s to guide. Ephesians 5 talks about loving your wife like Christ loved the church. That’s a tall order, considering Christ laid down His life for the church. And for the record, I’m still learning. My wife will confirm there are days I nail it… and days I need a do-over.

And as for being a dad? Man, there’s no manual for raising kids in a world that tells them truth is “whatever you feel.” I’ve got to model a different kind of manhood for my son—a masculinity that’s strong enough to stand for what’s right and tender enough to hold his hand when life knocks him down. For my daughter, I want to set the standard so high that the first young man who tries to win her heart will have to bring more than flowers—he’s going to need character, integrity, and a fear of God.

Modern culture says masculinity is dangerous. Biblical truth says it’s essential. A godly man protects the vulnerable, tells the truth (even when it costs him), and uses his strength—not to serve himself—but to serve others.

And here’s the kicker: you don’t have to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to prove your manhood (though I highly recommend it—it comes with great views and the occasional bout of altitude-induced vomiting). You prove it in the everyday moments—choosing faithfulness over flirting, presence over distraction, and purpose over passivity.

So, to the men reading this: grow the beard if you want, bench press if you can, but remember this—your worth isn’t in your image, it’s in your impact. And your family, your church, and your community are waiting for you to man up, in the truest, most biblical sense of the word.

Be well,

Jeffrey Charles Ford

Florida Man, CEO, & Mountain Climber