The Pillars of True Manhood and Mature Character

A true, mature man is defined by a character of steadfast integrity and the unselfish use of his God-given powers to honor his Creator and bless his fellow menCon 12.1+1. This high standard of manhood is not inherited or reached by accident, but is earned through hard, stern battles with self and the molding process of character building in the early years of youth2MCP 546.1+1.

The Foundation of True Manhood

A man's claim to real manhood is determined by the use he makes of the talents God has given himRH July 11, 1907, par. 3.

• Steadfast Integrity: God calls for men whose hearts are as true as steel and who will stand for the right regardless of circumstances or the "arm of flesh"CH 290.2.

• Intellect Governed by Spirit: While intellect is a mighty power, it does not constitute true manhood unless it is sanctified and controlled by the Spirit of GodRH July 11, 1907, par. 3.

• Moral Courage: A true man possesses an indomitable determination and firmness of purpose that cannot be molded or subdued by the allurements of the world or the devices of Satan4T 543.3+1.

Personal Conduct and Self-Control

Real manhood requires the mastery of one's own passions and habits through the grace of ChristRH July 11, 1907, par. 3.

• Victory Over Appetite: A man of dignity stands free from the bondage of debasing appetites, such as tobacco or liquor, which sacrifice virtue upon the altar of lust5T 442.2+1.

• Self-Reliant and Independent: To influence others for good, a man must be self-reliant and develop habits that are free from all taint of corruptionCG 157.1+1.

• Purity of Heart: Like Joseph, a mature man scorns to yield to temptations that would sully his purity, choosing instead to enshrine principles of righteousness in his heart1MR 321.2+1.

Responsibility in the Home and Society

The strength and maturity of a man are most clearly seen in his domestic and social relationsSA 155.1+1.

• Dignified Husband: A follower of Jesus preserves a godlike manhood by treating his wife with the kindness, tender courtesy, and respect he promised before God and angelsSA 155.1+1.

• Thoughtful Father: A mature father mingles the simplicity of a child with the wisdom and strength of manhood, avoiding harshness while training his children in the fear of the LordHR March 1, 1880, par. 1.

• Ministry to Others: Man is most closely allied to God when he is ministering to others; therefore, a real man promotes the happiness of his fellow beings in this life and aids them in securing the life to comeRH July 11, 1907, par. 3+1.

The Divine Pattern

Jesus Christ is the only perfect ideal for manhood, having passed through every stage of human experience without sinBTS October 1, 1915, par. 2+1.

• Reflecting the Divine Image: By beholding the Savior, a man becomes changed into His likeness, developing a symmetrical character that reflects the divine nature8T 86.2+1.

• Strength in Humility: True greatness is found in being sensible of one's own insufficiency and relying on God as the source of strength, for "before honor is humility" Proverbs 15:33PP 553.2.

• Building for Eternity: Every act and thought should be weighed with the realization that we are currently building characters for the future, immortal lifeLP 241.2+1.

Ultimately, to be a man after God's own heart means to stand in the dignity of your God-given manhood, controlled by God Himself rather than by any human intelligence2MCP 705.3+1. He who reaches this standard will find that his life is a bright light, carrying conviction to hearts and honoring the Master-builder who provides the strength for such a noble structure14LtMs, Ms 122, 1899, par. 90+1.