Living according to God’s divine design
In a thought-provoking conversation, Shane Winnings, CEO of Promise Keepers, delves into the motivations and significance behind the recently launched Proclamation on Godly Masculinity. The initiative seeks to reaffirm the distinct roles and responsibilities of men as outlined in the Bible, offering guidance in a time of cultural confusion.
When asked about the inspiration for the proclamation, Winnings highlights the current cultural push to blur the lines between male and female roles. “The Bible clearly shows us that God created male and female, and that was it. He created them equally but differently with different roles, different passions,” Winnings explains. He recounts a memory from his childhood involving a Gatorade commercial that emphasized gender competitiveness, reflecting a societal trend of challenging traditional roles. This blurring of lines has now escalated to the point where identity itself is in question, leading to widespread confusion.
Defining Godly Masculinity
The Proclamation on Godly Masculinity, according to Winnings, is a collection of Bible verses that clearly define what a man is and what his biblical roles are. It underscores responsibilities such as being providers, warriors, guardians, and protectors. Winnings emphasizes that societal challenges have recently questioned these roles. “We’re seeing this huge push of women to deny that they want to grow up and have a beautiful wedding and a family,” he says. The proclamation seeks to reassure men that being a provider and protector is not only acceptable but essential.
Winnings attributes the confusion surrounding gender roles to both natural and supernatural forces. He believes that destabilizing pillars of society, such as the nuclear family, makes it easier for certain groups to exert control. “When you teach your citizens that it’s okay if they abort their children, change their gender, or don’t marry someone of the opposite sex, it destabilizes society,” he explains. This, Winnings argues, is demonically inspired as it goes against God’s design.
The Impact of Fatherlessness
A significant point of concern for Winnings is the breakdown of fathers in the home and its correlation with increased crime rates. Drawing from his experience as a police officer, he notes, “The majority of troubled youth that I dealt with did not have a father.” The absence of a strong father figure often leads to dire consequences for young men. Promise Keepers aims to address this issue by reinforcing the importance of fatherhood and providing support for fathers and families.
To counter these cultural challenges, Promise Keepers remains steadfast in its message centered on God, His Word, and His Son. Winnings emphasizes the organization’s commitment to reaching fathers and sons, grandfathers and grandsons across the nation. The upcoming Promise Keepers event in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on August 9th and 10th, aims to gather thousands of men for a time of equipping and encouragement. Notable speakers, including Jim Caviezel, will be present to inspire and instruct attendees.
Getting Involved
Winnings invites individuals to follow Promise Keepers on social media, particularly on Instagram, to stay updated on events and initiatives. He expresses his excitement about the organization’s resurgence and its mission to gather men once again. “I’m honored to be leading it,” Winnings says, underscoring the importance of the work they are doing in today’s society.
The Proclamation on Godly Masculinity represents a clarion call to men to embrace their biblical roles and responsibilities. As Winnings articulates, in a world grappling with identity and purpose, returning to the foundational truths of Scripture offers a path forward. Through the efforts of Promise Keepers, there is hope for a renewed understanding of manhood that honors God and strengthens families and communities.
