Chivalry Isn't Dead

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. I Corinthians 16:13-14

Okay, men, here's the excellent news…chivalry still gets style points! In a world where the distinctive line blurs between male/female, women still love their men to be manly as God defines it – "done in love." The plain truth is that women and men need the seasoning each gender brings to the table. We are entirely equal and yet very different. Real men love to have their life flavored by a good woman. And women need their man to be THE man - it's a required spice of life, ask most women.

A "code of conduct" became famous as the Titanic was sinking into deadly waters. The mad scramble on its listing decks was to get as many women and children into life rafts as was possible. The code is branded into history - "Women and Children First"! This code of conduct that played out on that fateful night of April 14, 1912, is what makes the story epic. Imagine if it was "each man for himself" or "each man did what was right in his own eyes." This would be another tragic watery grave of shame. But the Titanic lives on because of heroism and chivalry, more than almost any other reason.

This code has roots that reach back thousands of years. God himself cooked up the code of chivalry and respect for women and children. It's the proper order of things. And when we get the order out of whack, we lose a remarkable story and gain only shame. We need a revival of the code. And that revival needs to begin with you - soon, you'll have an epic tale that someone else will tell.

Here are a few key steps you can take today to reclaim Christ-like Chivalry:

• Be Alert. Chivalrous men are watchful men. We have learned that laziness in spirit is a breeding ground for evil spirits. We have someone more significant than themselves or others to give us direction – God alone! And men who are alert lean into God's word because they've seen the folly of flying by the seat of their pants. Central to the life of an alert man is seeing life through the wisdom of God's word. We read it – apply it – live it.
• Be Strong. In the words of Robert Lewis, strong men "reject passivity and accept responsibility." We know that some of God's greatest men are quiet, but they step up and step out, not waiting for prodding or poking. But this initiation can only be done in response to prayerful surrender to Jesus and submitting to being filled with the Holy Spirit's power. When men lack strength and initiative, it's often because they hear voices of condemnation or victimization. We reject these voices. As a disciple of Christ, listen to the voice of God and move when he calls.
• Be Love. Men who love have set down self-will and stepped up to God's will. Stu Weber coined the phrase "Tender Warrior," which captures the heart of the real man of God. We aren't called to be soft but to be tender – as tender as our Savior. We open doors with glad hearts, offer our seats with honor, and defend and protect with dignity—men who love champion women.

Chivalry still gets style points today. Rack up the points moment by moment and day by day. Get a win...God is cheering for you!