God has entrusted to men a noble and high calling. I truly believe that, in my vocation as a woman (ezer, “helper”), I am called to encourage men to be all that God has made them to be.
I must pause here to note that I’ve been surrounded by godly men. They, themselves, would admit that they are far from perfect. They have failed. But, aware of their high calling, they have never abused, abandoned or left me uncovered and at risk.
Without a doubt, there are women who do not trust men because they have been deeply hurt by them. On several occasions, while speaking to this or that group, I’ve recognized the pain and anger in the body language of a woman in the audience. In a way, I am grateful when the angry woman approaches me because I am given the opportunity to do two things: 1) Validate her feelings, not because I can understand them, but because they are real; and 2) Point her to the perfect Man, Jesus Christ who loves, respects, covers, restores, and heals all women — no matter what the circumstances.
Yes, men have hurt women. But, the modern feminist movement with its twisted and distorted sense of equality has struck a cruel and damaging blow to men. Men may respond in anger or passivity, neither of which are good for women. I fear for the family — indeed, our nation — when men are openly disrespected, labeled “idiots,” and demeaned in every sort of way.
Over the years, I’ve spoken to groups of younger and older men. In a Bible study entitled Called To Remember (Lutherans For Life or Concordia Publishing House), I encourage men by reminding them how much women, children and society need them. I’ve also apologized to them for the ways women tease, confuse, and fail to respect Biblical manhood.
God created women to be faithful and discerning helpers of men because “it was not good that man be alone” (Genesis 2:18). When given the choice, why would a woman who loves the Lord choose to tear a man down rather than build him up? Why would a daughter of God in Christ turn from her special role to covet that of another? Even if she has been hurt, why would a thinking woman fall to the behavior of a cruel and abusive man?
Silly women play competitive games with men. Odd, I think, that women who have been given the ability to bear life, connect men to children, shape attitudes, build relationships, and nurture a future of hope would despise such awesome privilege. God created male and female to be equal, but He didn’t make them at the same time, in the same way, or for the same purpose.
There is a lot more I’d like to say, but here’s my conclusion (for now). I am a better woman because of godly men: my dad, husband, two sons, four grandsons, father-in-law, brother, two brother-in-laws, and twelve nephews. Do we think and act differently? Oh yes. Do they frustrate me? Oh yes. Do they disappoint me? Oh yes. But, when danger lurks at my door, I want to stand behind my husband. When an unhealthy culture concerns me, I want to look to my Christian sons and see hope. When silly women weary me, I want to step away for awhile to enjoy the company of sane and sensible men.
In every way I can, I promise to support and encourage the men that God places in my life. It seems to me this will be to everyone’s advantage — male and female.
Ezerwoman's Blog 