MALE AND FEMALE Relating Between Genders

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

Genesis 2:18

Imagine a world with one gender. That’s how it was at the beginning of history. There was only Adam. Every cave was a mancave. Every toilet seat was up. Nothing needed mansplaining. It didn’t take very long before God pronounced for the very first time, “This is not good!”

Humanity was created in the image of God … and in two genders. Male and female together reflect the imprint of God’s qualities. Consequently, both genders can think, converse, love, face challenges, and do great things. But unfortunately, both genders were also involved in the fall of humanity, therefore men and women have the capacity to insult, miscommunicate, hate, and do wrong.

Cultural issues like abusive male dominance, gender confusion, and militant feminism are the result of drifting away from the imprint of God’s image that was given at creation. The Creator’s intention was that male and female humans would co-exist in mutual love and respect, thus reflecting His character in this world.

The Golden Rule applies to gender relationships. Treating a brother, sister, parent, co-worker, or spouse with the same dignity and personal care that you desire becomes the key to relating with the opposite sex.

Surprisingly, Christianity champions this approach. Jesus included women in His close followers (Luke 8:1-3). He interacted with them without controlling or desiring them. The apostle Paul taught moral purity and dignity in gender relationships (1 Timothy 5:1-3), not by avoiding or exploiting the opposite sex but by treating them like family, hence the church community were “brothers and sisters,” implying a warm and wholesome relationship.

You need the other gender. God intentionally placed them in your life. Replace your complaints with gratitude for what they provide. Remember it is not good for you to be alone … whether male or female.