² Older men are to be self-controlled, worthy of respect, sensible, and sound in faith, love, and endurance. (Titus 2:2 CSB)

If you would like a great example of a good father on this Fathers Day, here it is. Paul provides a simple list in one sentence of what it means to be a good father and how we are to be as we grow older.

There has been a lot said and written of late regarding what a man “should” or “should not” be. Masculinity is under fire more now than ever. And many question men’s proper roles in todays society. But let’s break down this simple but profound scripture.

To be self-controlled is to be worthy of respect. It shows that a man is not swayed by outward influences but has a level of control of himself. And to do so is worthy of respect. But respect is an earned thing. So our self-control must be manifest in our words and deeds.

Sensible and sound in faith. I do not think these two can be separated either. Sensibility is a sign of sound faith and sound faith is a sign of sensibility. Again, one is not swayed by the voices of the world but remains sensible in the light of all the lack of sensibility around him. This manifest a life that is focused upon our faith.

Love creates endurance. Both in our families and in life generally when we love, we may be called on to endure much. But much love grants us the ability to endure much. It is easier now for me to love unconditionally than when I was a young man and I believe that love and endurance, and all the others are the measure of a man.