Royals | The Marks of a Man God Uses
The Marks of a Man God Uses
In a world that often seems to diminish the role of men, particularly in matters of faith, there's a powerful Royal call echoing through the ages – a call for men to rise up and be used by God. This isn't about excluding women or diminishing their importance; rather, it's about recognizing that God desires to use men in specific and impactful ways to advance His kingdom.
The early church, often idealized as a perfect model, faced its own set of challenges. In Acts 6, we see a growing congregation grappling with internal conflicts and the need for more leaders. This moment of crisis became an opportunity for growth, as the apostles sought out men with particular qualities to serve the community.
These qualities – good reputation, fullness of the Holy Spirit, wisdom, and a willingness to serve – form the cornerstone of what it means to be a man used by God. Let's delve deeper into each of these marks:
1. Impeccable Character
Character isn't about perfection; it's about consistency and integrity. It's about being the same person in private as you are in public. The Bible is filled with examples of men whose character stood the test of time – Job, whose integrity was so unshakeable that God himself vouched for him, and Joseph, who fled temptation even when it could have cost him everything.
Developing character isn't easy. It requires constant vigilance and a willingness to be shaped by God's word. As Psalm 15 beautifully articulates, it's about leading a blameless life, speaking truth, refusing to slander, keeping promises even when it hurts, and standing firm in the face of adversity.
2. Fullness of the Holy Spirit
Being filled with the Holy Spirit isn't just for a select few – it's for every believer. However, there's a difference between having the Holy Spirit and being filled to overflowing with His presence. It's like the difference between a cup barely filled and one brimming over, spilling its contents to those around.
D.L. Moody once said he wouldn't cross the street without the Holy Spirit. In today's terms, we might say we wouldn't enter Walmart without the Holy Spirit! This dependence on God's Spirit is crucial for navigating life's challenges and being effective in ministry.
3. Wisdom
While the Holy Spirit brings supernatural wisdom, there's also a call to pursue practical, everyday wisdom. Proverbs 4:7 exhorts us to "get wisdom" and "get understanding." This isn't just about accumulating knowledge; it's about applying that knowledge in ways that honor God and serve others.
King Solomon, gifted with divine wisdom, became a beacon of understanding not just for Israel but for rulers around the world. His ability to discern complex situations, like the case of the two mothers claiming the same child, showcases the power of God-given wisdom in action.
4. A Heart to Serve
The Greek word "diakonis" speaks of someone who serves at another's command. It's the root of our word "deacon," but its meaning extends far beyond church roles. It's about having a heart that's willing to meet needs, even when it's uncomfortable or inconvenient.
Serving isn't always glamorous. It might mean cleaning up messes, visiting the lonely, or hugging someone who hasn't bathed in weeks. But it's in these moments of selfless service that we most reflect the heart of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve.
These qualities don't develop in isolation. They're often nurtured through relationships with spiritual fathers – men who pour into our lives, modeling character, wisdom, and service. The Apostle Paul recognized this need when he wrote to the Corinthians, "Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers" (1 Corinthians 4:15).
For some, the concept of fatherhood is fraught with pain. Perhaps your earthly father was absent, abusive, or simply disengaged. These wounds can make it difficult to relate to God as a loving Father. But there's healing available. God desires to "turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers" (Malachi 4:6).
This healing often comes through experiencing the love of God through others – spiritual fathers who step into the gap, modeling unconditional love, second chances, and true compassion. These relationships can transform our understanding of both earthly and heavenly fatherhood.
The call to be a man used by God isn't just for a select few. It's for every man who's willing to cultivate character, seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, pursue wisdom, and serve with a humble heart. And for those who feel inadequate or wounded, remember that God specializes in using the unlikely and healing the broken.
As we reflect on these marks of a man used by God, let's consider:
1. Who is pouring into my life right now? What am I learning from them?
2. Am I actively pursuing character, the fullness of the Holy Spirit, wisdom, and a servant's heart?
3. Are there father wounds in my life that need healing? How can I open myself to God's healing touch?
4. Who can I pour into? How can I be a spiritual father to someone in need of guidance and love?
The world needs men who are willing to stand up and be used by God. Men of character, filled with the Spirit, walking in wisdom, and ready to serve. Will you answer the call?
In a world that often seems to diminish the role of men, particularly in matters of faith, there's a powerful Royal call echoing through the ages – a call for men to rise up and be used by God. This isn't about excluding women or diminishing their importance; rather, it's about recognizing that God desires to use men in specific and impactful ways to advance His kingdom.
The early church, often idealized as a perfect model, faced its own set of challenges. In Acts 6, we see a growing congregation grappling with internal conflicts and the need for more leaders. This moment of crisis became an opportunity for growth, as the apostles sought out men with particular qualities to serve the community.
These qualities – good reputation, fullness of the Holy Spirit, wisdom, and a willingness to serve – form the cornerstone of what it means to be a man used by God. Let's delve deeper into each of these marks:
1. Impeccable Character
Character isn't about perfection; it's about consistency and integrity. It's about being the same person in private as you are in public. The Bible is filled with examples of men whose character stood the test of time – Job, whose integrity was so unshakeable that God himself vouched for him, and Joseph, who fled temptation even when it could have cost him everything.
Developing character isn't easy. It requires constant vigilance and a willingness to be shaped by God's word. As Psalm 15 beautifully articulates, it's about leading a blameless life, speaking truth, refusing to slander, keeping promises even when it hurts, and standing firm in the face of adversity.
2. Fullness of the Holy Spirit
Being filled with the Holy Spirit isn't just for a select few – it's for every believer. However, there's a difference between having the Holy Spirit and being filled to overflowing with His presence. It's like the difference between a cup barely filled and one brimming over, spilling its contents to those around.
D.L. Moody once said he wouldn't cross the street without the Holy Spirit. In today's terms, we might say we wouldn't enter Walmart without the Holy Spirit! This dependence on God's Spirit is crucial for navigating life's challenges and being effective in ministry.
3. Wisdom
While the Holy Spirit brings supernatural wisdom, there's also a call to pursue practical, everyday wisdom. Proverbs 4:7 exhorts us to "get wisdom" and "get understanding." This isn't just about accumulating knowledge; it's about applying that knowledge in ways that honor God and serve others.
King Solomon, gifted with divine wisdom, became a beacon of understanding not just for Israel but for rulers around the world. His ability to discern complex situations, like the case of the two mothers claiming the same child, showcases the power of God-given wisdom in action.
4. A Heart to Serve
The Greek word "diakonis" speaks of someone who serves at another's command. It's the root of our word "deacon," but its meaning extends far beyond church roles. It's about having a heart that's willing to meet needs, even when it's uncomfortable or inconvenient.
Serving isn't always glamorous. It might mean cleaning up messes, visiting the lonely, or hugging someone who hasn't bathed in weeks. But it's in these moments of selfless service that we most reflect the heart of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve.
These qualities don't develop in isolation. They're often nurtured through relationships with spiritual fathers – men who pour into our lives, modeling character, wisdom, and service. The Apostle Paul recognized this need when he wrote to the Corinthians, "Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers" (1 Corinthians 4:15).
For some, the concept of fatherhood is fraught with pain. Perhaps your earthly father was absent, abusive, or simply disengaged. These wounds can make it difficult to relate to God as a loving Father. But there's healing available. God desires to "turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers" (Malachi 4:6).
This healing often comes through experiencing the love of God through others – spiritual fathers who step into the gap, modeling unconditional love, second chances, and true compassion. These relationships can transform our understanding of both earthly and heavenly fatherhood.
The call to be a man used by God isn't just for a select few. It's for every man who's willing to cultivate character, seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, pursue wisdom, and serve with a humble heart. And for those who feel inadequate or wounded, remember that God specializes in using the unlikely and healing the broken.
As we reflect on these marks of a man used by God, let's consider:
1. Who is pouring into my life right now? What am I learning from them?
2. Am I actively pursuing character, the fullness of the Holy Spirit, wisdom, and a servant's heart?
3. Are there father wounds in my life that need healing? How can I open myself to God's healing touch?
4. Who can I pour into? How can I be a spiritual father to someone in need of guidance and love?
The world needs men who are willing to stand up and be used by God. Men of character, filled with the Spirit, walking in wisdom, and ready to serve. Will you answer the call?
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