Christian men play a vital role in leading their families. As leaders in the home, they are called to love, protect, and provide for their families while also modeling a Christ-like character. The Bible offers numerous examples and instructions for how Christian men can be better leaders in the home. Below are some biblical verses and principles that can help men fulfill this important role.
Love your wife as Christ loves the Church
Ephesians 5:25 states, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This whole passage in Ephesians 5 (specifically, verses 22 through 33) sets a high standard for husbands to love their wives sacrificially and selflessly, just as Christ did for the Church. Christian men should strive to love their wives in this manner, showing them respect, kindness, and affection. Commit this and the surrounding verses to memory, and make a daily pledge to live this out in your life.
Lead with gentleness and respect
1 Peter 3:7 instructs us, “Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” While they are to submit to husbands, wives are not there to bark orders at. This verse emphasizes the importance of treating wives with gentleness and respect, recognizing that they are co-heirs with their husbands in the blessings of salvation. Love, honor, cherish, and treasure your wives!
Provide for your family
1 Timothy 5:8 says, “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” This verse emphasizes the responsibility of men to provide for their families, both physically and spiritually. This includes providing for their needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as leading them in spiritual and familial growth. So husbands and fathers, be there for your wife and kids!
Lead in prayer
1 Thessalonians 5:17 bluntly commands, “Pray continually.” Christian men should take the lead in praying for their families, interceding for their needs, and asking for God’s guidance and protection. Pray for them and pray with them. Commit to making daily prayer sessions with your wife as well.
Model Christ-like character
Colossians 3:12-13 asserts, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Christian men should strive to model the character of Christ in their homes, demonstrating compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
Teach and instruct your children
Deuteronomy 6:7 says, “Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Christian men should take an active role in teaching and instructing their children, helping them to grow in their knowledge and understanding of God and His Word. Just don’t leave it up to your local church or youth group. Don’t push off the responsibility to your wife, either. You must take the reins of instruction and leadership for your children!
Men, it is up to you to set the spiritual “thermostat” in your homes. Lead your families well by doing it biblically and consistently. No compromises! By loving their wives sacrificially, treating them with respect, providing for their families, leading in prayer, modeling Christ-like character, and teaching and instructing their children, male Christ-followers can fulfill their God-given calling to be leaders in their households.
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