2 Samuel 23 - 1 Kings 2
Real Men

As David laid on his deathbed, he called his son Solomon to his side to give him a final charge. The weight of the kingdom would soon be on his shoulders, and the aged king, who had been through so much, had some final words to impart. In his instructions he told his son of situations with which he would need to deal, but he began with these instructions, "I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, and keep the charge of the Lord your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn, that the Lord may establish his word that he spoke concerning me, saying, If your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel" (2:2-4).

It isn't politically corrects, perhaps, but I like the instructions, "Be strong, and show yourself a man…" In a society which encourages young men to get in touch with their feminine side and play with dolls (not actions figures!), Christian parents need to be teaching their sons that there are special responsibilities with being a man.

Men are expected to be strong. This is certainly not meant to be a slight against women in any way, but men are to be strong. Manhood is associated with strength. They are to handle difficult things because they were made to handle difficult things. As David was calling on his son to do, they rise up the challenges and don't run away. This means young men ought to be taught, regardless of how difficult it may be, to look to the future and prepare themselves for life and for providing for a family. This may include college or the acquiring of some kind of trade. It will certainly require the trait of self-discipline and sacrifice. But, that is what men do.

What is noted specifically by David as a trait of manhood. He didn't speak of how much Solomon could bench press or drink. The real test of manhood is spiritual devotion to God. In our world where "real men" drink, smoke, curse, fight and brawl, and fool around, David's word are really revolutionary—but vitally important. Real men are committed to the LORD. They think about godly things and prepare themselves for godly service. They flee from temptations (Genesis 39:9-12) by governing their emotions and desires. They study God's word (Psalm 119:49; 2 Timothy 2:15) and seek to obey. They long for new opportunities to serve—either publicly with the assembly, or privately in teaching and good deeds for others. In doing so, they are blessed by the LORD—He is pleased with them and will immediately provide for them and ultimately give them a home in heaven. But, not only will they be blessed, they will bless. They will bless their families and fellow saints with both a good example and a strong rock of support in times of need.

There are a lot of males in the world, but few men. "Show yourself to be a man."