What is it that defines masculinity? What does it meant to be more than male? The story of Ruth and Boaz in the Bible offers profound insights into what true masculinity looks like as Boaz embodies the qualities of an excellent man.

Described as a "worthy man" or "man of excellence" (Gibbor Chayil in Hebrew), Boaz demonstrates three key aspects of masculine virtue: provision, protection, and responsibility. Let's explore each of these in turn and see how they apply to our lives today.

Provision: The Heart of a Provider

Boaz's actions towards Ruth reveal a man who is both prepared and generous in giving. We see him offering food, allowing her to glean in his fields, and even measuring out extra grain for her to take home. This provision stems from a strong work ethic, financial discipline, and a mindset focused on serving others.

True masculinity isn't about accumulating wealth for oneself, but about using one's resources to benefit those in one's care. It's about making sacrifices to ensure the needs of family and community are met. This doesn't mean living in opulence, but rather ensuring that basic needs are covered and that there's an atmosphere of stability and joy in the home.

Provision goes beyond just material needs. A truly masculine man also provides emotional support, laughter, and spiritual leadership. It's about creating an environment where those around you can thrive. If your family are going to make bread, you must provide the grain.

Protection: Strength in Service

Boaz's protective nature is evident in how he instructs his workers to treat Ruth and ensures her safety in the fields. He leverages his authority and resources to shelter her from potential harm or exploitation.

Masculine strength finds its highest expression not in domination, but in protection of the vulnerable. It's about using one's physical, emotional, and social advantages to create security for others, not to manipulate or control them.

A crucial aspect of this protective nature is self-control, particularly in the realm of sexuality. When Ruth approaches Boaz on the threshing floor - a potentially compromising situation - he responds with honor and restraint. He protects not only her physical safety but also her dignity and reputation.

In our modern context, this principle of protection through self-control is more relevant than ever. It means guarding against the temptations of pornography, resisting the urge to take advantage of others, and maintaining integrity in all our relationships.

Responsibility: The Cornerstone of Masculinity

Perhaps the most defining characteristic of true masculinity is the willing assumption of responsibility. Boaz exemplifies this when he takes on the role of kinsman-redeemer, accepting responsibility not just for Ruth, but for Naomi and the legacy of their deceased relatives.

Authority naturally flows to those who take responsibility, and flees from those who shirk it. In families, workplaces, and communities, respect and influence are earned by those who step up to shoulder burdens and solve problems.

This principle is summed up in Douglas Wilson’s definition that, "masculinity is the glad assumption of sacrificial responsibility." It's not about grudgingly doing one's duty, but joyfully embracing the opportunity to serve and lead. It's a reflection of Christ's own attitude, who "for the joy set before him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:2).

The opposite of this - abdicating responsibility - leads to a loss of identity and purpose. How many fathers have become mere shadows in their families because they refused to engage, teach, and nurture? How many men have lost their standing in society because they wouldn't step up to the challenges before them?

Embracing Masculine Excellence

The call to masculine excellence is a high one, but it's attainable through God's grace and our committed effort. If we've fallen short in these areas - whether in provision, protection, or responsibility - there's always room for repentance and growth.

The Apostle Paul exhorts us to "act like men" (1 Corinthians 16:13), implying that true masculinity is something we must consciously pursue. It doesn't just happen naturally; it requires intention, effort, and a willingness to learn and grow.

Ultimately, our model for perfect masculinity is found in Jesus Christ. He is our ultimate provider, meeting not just our physical needs but our deepest spiritual longings. He is our protector, the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. And he took upon himself the ultimate responsibility - paying the price for our sins and reconciling us to God.

As we seek to embody true masculinity, we're really seeking to reflect Christ's character in our own spheres of influence. It's about laying down our lives in service, just as he did. It's about using our strength not for our own gain, but for the benefit of others. But as God’s economy works, the more you give away the more you gain. The moment you die, He brings thirty, sixty, and one hundred fold. You can’t out-give God.

This journey towards masculine excellence isn't just for married men or fathers. Single men, young men, men in all walks of life are called to cultivate these qualities. By doing so, we create a positive ripple effect in our families, workplaces, and communities.

In a culture that often seems confused about what it means to be a man, let's reclaim the noble calling of masculine excellence. Let's be men who provide generously, protect fiercely, and take responsibility gladly. Let's be men who, like Boaz, earn the title of "worthy" not through bravado or dominance, but through sacrificial love and servant leadership.

As we pursue this path, we'll find that true masculinity isn't about asserting our rights or proving our worth. Instead, it's about pouring ourselves out for others, finding our identity in Christ, and leaving a legacy of love and faithfulness that echoes through generations.