In the Christian faith, virtue is often talked about in terms of the Proverbs 31 woman. She is known for her strength, hard work, and devotion to God. But the Bible also talks about the qualities of a virtuous man.
The Books of Maccabees offer historical examples of virtuous men and emphasize the importance of a solid upbringing. In 2 Maccabees 15:12, Onias, the former High Priest, is described as a “great and wonderful man of humble and gentle disposition” who was taught to live a virtuous life from childhood. This principle of instilling virtue early on is crucial in raising men who honor God.
Qualities of a Virtuous Man
- He Fears God
- Integrity and Honesty
- Courage and Strength
- Self-Discipline
- Faithfulness and Love
- Humility and Teachability
- Respect for Women
- Servant Leadership
- Hardworking
- Leadership in the Home
1. Fear of the Lord
The foundation of all virtue is a profound fear of the Lord. A virtuous man understands that his actions and decisions should align with God’s will. He seeks to live in accordance with Scripture, allowing his faith to guide his choices. This foundational fear fosters a sense of accountability and inspires a genuine desire to please God.
2. Integrity and Honesty
A virtuous man is marked by his integrity and honesty. He is trustworthy, adheres to his principles, and is transparent in his dealings with others. Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. This quality is essential for building strong relationships and earning the trust of others.
3. Courage and Strength
Virtue often requires courage and strength. A virtuous man is not afraid to stand up for what is right, even in the face of opposition or adversity. The courage exemplified by figures like Eleazar in the Maccabees serves as a reminder that true strength is found in one’s commitment to faith and righteousness. A virtuous man recognizes that real strength is more about moral fortitude than physical power.
4. Self-Discipline
Self-discipline is another crucial quality of a virtuous man. This involves managing one’s desires and impulses in a way that aligns with godly principles. Self-control helps a man resist temptations that could lead him astray. A remarkable example of self-discipline is found in Joseph, the son of Jacob. Despite facing intense temptation from Potiphar’s wife, Joseph chose to flee rather than give in. His ability to resist these advances highlights the importance of prioritizing integrity and commitment to God over fleeting desires.
5. Faithfulness and Love
A virtuous man exhibits faithfulness and love in all relationships. He honors his commitments, be it to God, family, friends, or his community. Faithfulness goes beyond mere loyalty; it embodies an enduring love that is patient, kind, and sacrificial. Men who love as Christ loved reflect God’s character in their relationships, creating environments of trust and security.
6. Humility and Teachability
Humility is a hallmark of a virtuous man. He recognizes his limitations and remains open to learning from others. A humble man acknowledges that he does not have all the answers and seeks guidance from Scripture and wise counsel. This teachability allows him to grow in character and deepen his understanding of God’s will.
7. Respect for Women
A virtuous man demonstrates respect for all women. He treats women with dignity and honor, recognizing their value as individuals created in the image of God. This respect is reflected in his words, actions, and how he supports and uplifts the women in his life. A man who respects women cultivates healthy relationships based on mutual respect and love.
8. Servant Leadership
A virtuous man practices servant leadership. He leads by example and serves others selflessly. This type of leadership is not about seeking power or control; instead, it is characterized by humility and a willingness to help those in need. A virtuous man follows Christ’s example of servant leadership, putting the needs of others before his own.
9. Hardworking
A virtuous man is hardworking. He understands the value of diligence and puts in the effort required to provide for his family and contribute to his community. He is not afraid of hard work and approaches tasks with a strong work ethic. This commitment to hard work reflects his desire to fulfill his responsibilities and be a good steward of the resources God has entrusted to him.
10. Leadership in the Home
A virtuous man leads his home according to biblical principles, particularly in how he loves and cares for his wife. He is committed to being faithful to her, treating her with kindness and respect, and nurturing a loving environment. His leadership involves guiding his family spiritually, emotionally, and physically, ensuring that his home reflects God’s love and values. This type of leadership fosters a healthy and supportive atmosphere where each family member can thrive.
How to Identify a Virtuous Man
Women seeking a virtuous man can look for specific qualities that indicate a strong character. A virtuous man will demonstrate:
- Consistency in Behavior: He acts in accordance with his values, both in public and private settings.
- Good Communication Skills: He is open, honest, and respectful in conversations, willing to listen as much as he speaks.
- Supportive Nature: He encourages and uplifts others, showing genuine interest in their well-being.
- Commitment to Personal Growth: He actively seeks ways to improve himself, whether spiritually, emotionally, or intellectually.
- Strong Moral Compass: He stands firm on his principles and makes decisions that align with God’s teachings.
Encouragement for Men
Men can use this list of qualities as a self-evaluation tool. Reflecting on these attributes allows them to identify areas for growth. Men should
