Biblical Manhood: God’s Design for Love, Marriage, and Sacrificial Leadership
Dating to Marry: The Importance of Intentionality
The world often treats dating as a casual pastime, but biblically, dating should be intentional and purposeful. Proverbs 18:22 states, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.” This verse underscores the significance of seeking a spouse with marriage in mind. A man should not date simply for entertainment, emotional fulfillment, or personal validation—his pursuit should be directed toward marriage, with prayerful discernment and wisdom guiding his choices.
Unlike the culture’s approach to dating, where relationships frequently lack direction and commitment, biblical courtship demands responsibility. A man who is serious about marriage will look beyond physical attraction and fleeting emotions—he will seek a partner who shares his faith, values, and life mission. He will also respect her time and emotions by making his intentions clear early in the relationship.
The Priority Shift: A Man Preparing for Marriage
Once a man has decided that he is ready for marriage, his priorities must align with God’s order. Matthew 6:33 states, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” God must remain at the center, guiding all decisions. The biblical order of prioritization for a man preparing to marry is as follows:
- God – Above all else, a man must place God first. Without a firm foundation in Christ, he will struggle to lead his future family in faith. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
- Wife – Genesis 2:24 makes it clear that marriage creates a new family unit: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” A man’s wife should be his second priority after God, taking precedence over parents, friends, and career ambitions.
- Children – A father’s role is critical, but his love for his wife should set the tone for the household. Ephesians 6:4 instructs fathers, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Children thrive when they see their parents loving each other in a Christlike manner.
- Parents – Honoring parents is biblical (Exodus 20:12), but once married, a man’s primary responsibility shifts to his wife and children. His parents should no longer hold primary authority over his household.
- Siblings and Friends – While friendships are important, they must not take precedence over marriage. Proverbs 13:20 reminds us, “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” A wise husband chooses relationships that support and strengthen his marriage.
A husband’s role is not simply to provide but to love and lead sacrificially. Ephesians 5:25 commands, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” This is a high standard—Christ’s love for the church was selfless, unwavering, and sacrificial. A husband is called to that same level of commitment, even when it is difficult.
Loving one’s wife sacrificially means putting her needs before personal desires, being patient and understanding, and leading the family spiritually. A husband must make sacrifices for the well-being of his wife, whether that means adjusting career goals, being present emotionally, or resolving conflicts with humility.
For example, if a husband receives a lucrative job offer in another city but his wife is deeply connected to their current community, he must consider how the move will impact her emotionally and spiritually. Instead of making the decision alone, he should discuss it with her, pray about it, and make a choice that prioritizes their family’s well-being over personal ambition.
Another example is in day-to-day interactions. If his wife is feeling overwhelmed with household tasks, a husband should not assume that because he works outside the home, he is exempt from contributing. Loving sacrificially means stepping in to help, whether that’s doing the dishes, taking care of the children, or simply offering emotional support after a long day.
In moments of conflict, sacrificing pride is another way to love. Instead of insisting on being right, a husband should practice patience and humility, listening to his wife’s concerns and seeking reconciliation instead of escalating the argument. Ephesians 4:2 reminds us, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Moreover, a man’s love for his wife is the greatest gift he can give his children. Proverbs 20:7 states, “The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!” When a father models faithfulness and love, his children grow up with a biblical understanding of marriage and relationships.
What to Do When the Relationship is Threatened
Every relationship will face trials—whether it be financial stress, miscommunication, external interference, or even temptation. However, Mark 10:9 reminds us, “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” If you're dating to marry, it is important to know that marriage is a covenant, not a contract that can be easily broken.
Turn to Scripture for guidance:
If faced with temptation, he must remember 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” Setting clear boundaries and maintaining accountability are essential.
If conflict arises, James 1:19 teaches, “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” Communication, prayer, and seeking wise counsel can prevent disputes from escalating.
If outside influences (family, friends, or career) threaten the relationship, Genesis 2:24 reiterates that a man must prioritize his wife above all other earthly relationships. Setting strong clear boundaries and ensuring that his wife feels secure is crucial.
I never thought I’d have to write about this, but I see too many relationships fail because they do not align with God’s design. Marriage is not a fleeting commitment—it is a lifelong covenant meant to reflect Christ’s love for the church. A committed relationship is not built on emotions or convenience but on sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering devotion.
A man who follows God’s order will honor his wife, love his children, and leave a legacy of faithfulness. A marriage that mirrors Christ’s love will withstand any storm because it is built upon the unshakable foundation of God’s Word.
So, if you’re in a relationship or preparing for marriage, ask yourself: are you building it according to God’s design? If not, it’s time to realign your priorities, because God’s way is always the best way.
What My Younger Brothers Have Taught Me About Love and Growth
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My relationship with my younger brothers is a constant reminder that love often means having the courage to speak up. While many families prioritize individualism and privacy, my brothers and I have found a balance where love and correction coexist. We trust each other, but we also care too much to stay silent when one of us is headed down the wrong path.
As the eldest, I’ve always felt a natural sense of responsibility to guide my brothers. Knowing them so well—their strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots—makes it easier to notice when they’re making mistakes they might not see. Yet, I’ve learned that speaking up isn’t about proving I know better; it’s about loving them enough to point out what they might not realize, even if it’s uncomfortable.
Galatians 6:1-2 reflects this beautifully: “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” For me, correction is one way I carry my brothers’ burdens. It’s not about judgment—it’s about guiding them with gentleness and love.
But our dynamic isn’t one-sided. I’ve experienced correction from them, too, and those moments have been some of the most humbling. As the eldest, I sometimes feel like I should have everything figured out. So when my younger brothers call me out on something, it stings. Whether it’s pointing out my tone in a conversation or encouraging me to rethink a hasty decision, their words challenge me to see my blind spots.
At first, my pride often flares up. It’s easy to think, Aren’t I supposed to be the one guiding them? But I’ve come to realize their correction stems from the same love and care I try to show them. Proverbs 12:15 captures this perfectly: “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” Listening to them has taught me humility and shown me that wisdom doesn’t always come with age—it comes from being open to the truth, no matter who delivers it.
Their willingness to speak up reminds me that love isn’t always about comforting words; sometimes, it’s about uncomfortable truths. Proverbs 27:5-6 says, “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” In our bond as siblings, silence can feel like hidden love, and we’ve learned that addressing each other’s shortcomings is a form of genuine care.
These moments of correction have shaped me not only as a sister but also as a person. They’ve taught me to be more sensitive to those around me, to hear people out without immediately dismissing their perspective. My brothers’ honesty has shown me how vital it is to listen—not just to respond, but to understand and grow.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from my brothers is the balance between trust and intervention. While we respect each other’s privacy, we also recognize the importance of speaking up when something feels off. We don’t always share everything with each other, but we’ve built a foundation of openness that allows for honest conversations when they matter most.
Ephesians 4:15 sums up our relationship well: “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” Our bond thrives not because we always agree but because we’re willing to challenge each other in love.
I’ve come to see the wisdom in Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” My brothers sharpen me in ways I never expected, and I hope I do the same for them. The trust and love we’ve built aren’t about avoiding conflict or letting things slide—they’re about showing up for each other in ways that truly matter.
Looking back, I’m grateful for the uncomfortable moments, the honest conversations, and even the sting of correction. My brothers have taught me that love isn’t passive or indifferent—it’s active, intentional, and sometimes challenging. In their willingness to lovingly correct me, they’ve shown me how to love better, listen more, and grow in ways I never could on my own.
Stepping Into the Light
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I’ve been reflecting on how God brings hidden things into the light and how that can help us break free from what holds us back. I don’t have it all figured out, but I’ve noticed patterns in my life where God has exposed things—not to shame me but to heal me. I’d like to share some of what I’ve been learning, including moments from my own journey.
I’ll never forget how much I loved sneaking chocolates as a kid. One night, I crept into the kitchen, grabbed a box of chocolates, and ate nearly half of it while everyone else was asleep. The next morning, when my mom found the box half empty, I denied everything, even though everyone knew that was my favorite chocolate! Looking back, it’s funny, but it also reminds me of how much effort we put into hiding things—even small things—only for the truth to come out anyway.
This reminds me of Luke 8:17, where Jesus says: “For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light” (ESV). Whether it’s something silly, like sneaking chocolates, or something deeper, God has a way of exposing things—not to embarrass us but to help us grow. When I’ve tried to hide things, I’ve only felt more guilt and anxiety.
8 years ago, I used to exaggerate my achievements to make myself look better, especially around my mom's side of the family. I didn’t outright lie, but I’d stretch the truth just enough to impress my family. On the outside, I seemed confident, but deep down, I was scared of not being enough for them.
One day, during a conversation with my leader then, she gently pointed out how much pressure I was putting on myself to meet unrealistic expectations. That struck a chord because I realized she was right—I wasn’t being honest about where I really was in life. I was trying to project a version of myself that wasn’t entirely true. I was so focused on my image; how people perceived me was so important to me.
When I brought this to God in prayer, I felt convicted. John 3:20-21 says: “Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God” (NIV). This verse challenged me because I saw how much I avoided the truth—not just with others but even with myself.
That experience taught me that living in the light isn’t just about stopping bad habits; it’s about being real with myself and with God. As I started being more honest about my struggles and where I needed to grow, I felt a new sense of freedom. God’s light didn’t just expose the issue—it helped me face it and start walking in the truth.
For me, one of the biggest strongholds in my life has been people-pleasing. I used to bend over backward a thousand times for the people I care about. I didn’t want to say no to anyone, and I genuinely thought I was just being loving and selfless. But over time, people close to me started pointing out that this was causing my depression to worsen. I didn’t want to admit it at first, but I eventually realized that my need to please others had become a form of idolatry.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 really speaks to this: “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” My stronghold was my fear of disappointing people, which I was putting above my desire to please God. It was only when I started surrendering this to Him—letting go of the need to be everything to everyone—that I began to break free.
It’s still something I work on, but I’ve learned that pleasing others at the expense of my relationship with God is not what He calls me to do.
Walking in the light isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being honest—with God, myself, and others. 1 John 1:7 says: “If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (NIV). One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that “character is who you are when no one is looking.” Whether it’s sneaking chocolates, battling insecurity, or trying too hard to please people, God calls us to live with integrity and trust Him to transform us.
Looking back, I see how much freedom comes from stepping into the light. God’s light isn’t about shame—it’s about grace and growth. Whether it’s exposing a hidden sin or breaking a stronghold, His light leads to healing. And when I find myself tempted to hide something, I remind myself: “If you have to hide it, then deep down, you know something’s fundamentally wrong with what you’re doing.”
I’m still learning, and I know I’ll make mistakes along the way, but I’m grateful for a God who is patient with me and always invites me to walk in His light.
A Call for Universal Peace in the Midst of Conflict
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The loss of life in both Israel and Gaza has reached into the thousands, prompting believers globally to instinctively seek solace in prayer amidst this profound suffering and tragedy. However, grappling with the situation's intensely polarized and bitterly divisive nature raises the question of how to navigate prayer without taking sides. Can we pray prayers that resonate universally?
Amidst this complexity, the unwavering directive for Christians is to bear witness to the transformative gospel of peace that Christ advocates. The calling is clear – to fervently pray for peace that transcends surface tranquility and delves into the deep-seated systemic issues at the heart of the conflict. This prayer involves advocating for justice, equality, and hope for all, addressing the fundamental needs of Palestinians for self-determination and freedom, as well as acknowledging Israel's concerns for safety and security.
It's not just about praying for peace in a vague sense but for a profound, enduring, and just peace. The emphasis is on active engagement as peacemakers, rejecting violence, and striving for a resolution that goes to the roots of the conflict.
The president of the Council of Local Evangelical Churches in the Holy Land injects an eye-opening perspective into this discourse. He underscores that the protracted conflict over territory has missed the true essence. Instead of praying for one side to triumph, the focus should be on both sides turning to Christ. He emphasizes the transcendent value of Jesus over geographical victories, asserting that without Christ, even the vast expanse from the Mediterranean to the Pacific holds no actual significance. Essentially, the call is not for territorial victories but a spiritual awakening and transformation. After all, there are no winners in war.
Nuggets For Your Noggin
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So, here I am, looking back at the whirlwind journey that got me here. They say turning 30 is a big deal, a cosmic shift that'll rearrange the stars or something. Well, it's more like waking up to find a few extra creaks in your bones, maybe from heartache or maybe just from the wear and tear of being a grown-up. Life, right?
Now, sit with me for a bit. Let's have a chat, not like a stuffy lecture but more like swapping stories with a buddy who's been through the rollercoaster and lived to tell the tale. I'm no Gandalf or Dumbledore, but buckle up for some nuggets of wisdom, and let me pretend to be this "older sister" for you.
- Outlook
Life, with all its colors and chaos, is like a wild rollercoaster ride. It's filled with moments of joy, heartbreak, and the everyday grind. Navigating this rollercoaster requires more than just holding on—it demands a mindset of strategic acceptance. "It is what it is" isn't waving a white flag; It's a powerful acknowledgment that we can't control every twist and turn. It's about being savvy, picking battles that truly matter, and finding freedom in the chaos, dancing through life's unpredictability.
Strategic acceptance isn't about being passive. It's more like doing a rain dance in a storm of unpredictability. Some battles deserve your superhero energy, but others are best enjoyed from the sidelines with a knowing grin. It's about finding liberation in the messiness, making peace with reality, and enjoying the ongoing symphony of life, knowing that every note adds to the richness of the experience. - Relationships
Imagine life as a jam session, each relationship contributing a unique melody to the playlist of your life. Forget the fairy tale that love magically fixes everything; In reality, people are the architects of their destinations. It's a concert of diverse beats, and the key is learning to groove to your rhythm while appreciating the variety around you.
Recognizing that everyone follows their unique path, relationships become a dance of acceptance and understanding. It's about appreciating the individual notes without trying to force them into a predetermined melody. Just like in a jam session, the beauty lies in the harmonious chaos created when diverse elements come together. - Investments
In a world obsessed with dollar signs, true wealth goes beyond material possessions. It's an investment in your mind and body, nourishing mental and physical health. Think of it as collecting experiences like they're rare treasures, skipping the allure of FOMO-inducing gadgets, and choosing joy-inducing adventures that add flavor to your life.
This investment philosophy extends beyond possessions, emphasizing the value of memories over material things. Joyful experiences, personal growth, and a sound mind and body are the real MVPs. By prioritizing these intangibles, you not only enhance your well-being but contribute to a more fulfilling existence. - Silence
In a world where everyone's a chatterbox, silence emerges as a superpower. Knowing when to speak and when to remain silent is an art. Not every thought needs a megaphone, and not every situation requires your vocal contribution. Silence becomes a tool for deeper connection, a medium for understanding beyond words. In a world of opinions, being a chill DJ—spinning good vibes and listening with an open heart—often speaks louder than being the loudest voice in the room.
The power of selective expression lies in recognizing the value of silence. Sometimes, people don't need solutions; they need a compassionate presence. It's about fostering genuine connections through thoughtful communication, understanding the potency of words, and allowing silence to speak volumes. - Circles
Envision your life as a wild circus, and you're the fearless tightrope walker. Your inner circle becomes the safety net, ready to catch you when life tosses you into the circus of the unknown. It's not about exclusivity but about cultivating relationships based on trust, reciprocity, and genuine support.
Maintaining a tight circle is like having a close-knit circus team. These bonds go beyond surface-level connections, providing security and joy. Just as a circus performance is more vibrant with a tight team, your life narrative becomes more colorful and meaningful when surrounded by those who genuinely care and reciprocate in kind. - Trends
The glitter of fast fashion and fleeting trends might lure you into a tempting whirlpool, but it's crucial to see it as a financial sinkhole and an environmental threat. Fast fashion promotes a disposable mindset, turning your wardrobe into a revolving door of cheap, quickly discarded garments. Trends manipulate you into spending on items with temporary allure.
Your hard-earned money is better invested in timeless, quality pieces. Not only does this save you money, but it also reduces the environmental impact. Opt for sustainable, ethically produced clothing that aligns with a greater ecological responsibility. Embrace a minimalist mindset, curating a wardrobe that showcases your personal style without succumbing to the transient nature of fashion fads. - Gratitude
Complaining and adopting a victim mentality creates a trap that hinders personal growth and blinds us to the abundance of blessings in our lives. While the world has its struggles, incessant focus on personal grievances distorts our worldview. Instead of perpetuating a victim narrative, widen your lens and appreciate the privileges you often take for granted.
Consider this a call to action: witness global challenges, empathize with those less fortunate, and channel your energy into contributing to the betterment of mankind. Gratitude isn't passive; it's a catalyst for positive change. Acknowledge your blessings, big and small, and leverage your privilege to uplift others. By fostering an attitude of gratitude, you transform your mindset and become an agent for positive change. - Procrastination
Procrastination, the silent thief of time, robs us of opportunities and personal fulfillment. The allure of delaying tasks often stems from a misguided belief in an endless supply of tomorrows. However, time is finite, and each moment lost to procrastination could have been spent in pursuit of meaningful endeavors.
This is a gentle nudge to finish tasks ahead of schedule, to prioritize with purpose, and to conquer your to-do list with unwavering determination. By cultivating a proactive mindset, you create space for personal growth, learning, and the pursuit of passions. Overcoming procrastination leads not only to completing tasks but also to a richer, more fulfilling life. - Being Too Much
In a world that sometimes pressures conformity, embracing your uniqueness might earn you labels like "crazy" or "too much." Yet, it's precisely this authenticity that propels you toward personal success and fulfillment. Instead of conforming to societal expectations, thrive unapologetically in your uniqueness.
Let people think what they may, but as you pursue your goals relentlessly, they'll witness a journey characterized by resilience and authenticity. Your "craziness" becomes a beacon of inspiration for those who dare to step beyond societal norms. Thriving unapologetically is not a rejection of societal expectations; it's a celebration of individuality, a declaration that you are the author of your narrative, and a reminder that success often lies outside the confines of conformity.
Life's a wild ride—unpredictable, messy, and utterly beautiful. Embrace the lessons, dance in the rain, and hold tight to the circles that make the journey not just bearable but a freaking fantastic adventure!
Storytelling Diplomacy— A Media Studies Graduate's Journey into the Heart of International Development
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Lights, Camera, Action: My Bachelor's Odyssey in Media Studies
In the expansive realm of academia, my initiation into higher education unfurled against the backdrop of a Bachelor's degree in Media Studies—an academic domain that served as a captivating window into the intricacies of communication. Choosing this discipline was not just a matter of intellectual curiosity but a deliberate quest to understand the pulsating heart of the modern world—where information and narratives intertwine, shaping our collective consciousness.
Delving into the rich tapestry of Media Studies, my academic journey became a dynamic exploration of theories and practices. From the prophetic wisdom of Marshall McLuhan, whose seminal statement "The medium is the message" reverberated in lecture halls, to the intricate analysis of semiotics and the ever-evolving landscape of social media dynamics, I traversed a labyrinth of concepts that illuminated the multifaceted nature of media.
The transition from theory to practice materialized in a compelling internship with Reuters News (PH) and the Philippine Information Agency, a pivotal chapter in my undergraduate narrative. Here, I immersed myself in the gritty realities of journalism, donning the hat of a storytelling detective. Each news piece I crafted became a brushstroke in the vivid portrait of my homeland, unraveling the complexities and subtleties that defined the Filipino narrative.
But my journey in media was not confined to newsprint. A subsequent foray into the corporate realm led me to serve as a PR and marketing writer for diverse brands. With its demands for narrative finesse and audience understanding, this role metamorphosed me into a wordsmith, navigating the delicate dance between commercial messaging and audience engagement. These experiences, collectively, were the crucible in which my love for literature and the practicalities of media converged.
Jet-Setting Dreams: My Sojourn into International Development
As the curtain rose on the next act of my academic narrative, I found myself drawn to the compelling field of International Development for my graduate studies. This wasn't just a change in educational scenery; it was a profound shift in perspective, a panoramic widening of my worldview. Having grown up in a developing country, my immersion in economic challenges and societal disparities provided me with an intimate understanding of the issues underpinning the development discourse.
Traveling punctuated my life and further enriched this understanding. Immersing myself in diverse cultures and witnessing the spectrum of socio-economic landscapes became more than just stamps on a passport; each destination became a vivid chapter in my education. Whether traversing the bustling streets of Singapore, contemplating the historical narratives of Japanese cities, or engaging with the vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia, my experiences solidified a conviction—the world was a complex tapestry of interconnected stories.
International Development, therefore, wasn't merely an academic pursuit but a profound call to action. It wasn't about statistics and development indices but about people, their stories, and shared aspirations for a better tomorrow. My background in journalism, which had initially been a window into the narratives of my immediate surroundings, now became a scaffold to comprehend and amplify the stories of communities on a global scale.
The Cinematic Connection: Leveraging Media Studies in International Development
As the final act unfolds, the synergy between my Media Studies foundations and International Development aspirations emerges as a strategic fusion, a symbiotic relationship between creativity and strategic insight. In all its forms, media becomes a potent tool in the arsenal for positive change. My academic sojourn in Media Studies metamorphoses from exploring theoretical constructs into a hands-on apprenticeship in the art of influence.
In the realm of International Development, where communication is the lifeblood of progress, my background in media assumes the role of a secret weapon. The ability to craft compelling narratives, understand the intricate nuances of visual storytelling, and navigate the complex landscape of public perception position me as an observer and a storyteller with a mission.
The power to tell a story isn't just a skill; it's a responsibility. Armed with the narrative finesse cultivated in media studies, I step onto the global stage with a clear purpose. This isn't a mere transition; it's a strategic progression that leverages the creativity and insight honed in media studies to pursue positive change. As the curtains rise for my encore, I am not merely a spectator; I am a protagonist with the ability to shape narratives and catalyze transformation. Lights, camera, action—the blockbuster with a purpose is about to unfold on a global stage.
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