I have talked about the male crisis in previous commentaries, but it is encouraging to find an op-ed in USA Today by an author who begins by quoting a feminist. Nicole Russell quotes a feminist who concluded that, “If civilization had been left in female hands, we would still be living in grass huts."

Men are not optional, even though the current culture has made them feel that way. She observes that “A culture that repeatedly devalues men should not be surprised when so many struggle to find purpose, confidence and direction.” To quote C.S. Lewis: “We make men without chests and expect of them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honor and are shocked to find traitors in our midst.”

She points to a recent New York Times discussion on a podcast in which the participants lament that “young men are in crisis” and don’t find any encouragement from the left. Therefore, they head to the “far right who are welcoming them with open arms.” While that may be overstated, the direction is clear. Why spend time with liberals or even vote for liberals, if they refer to your masculinity as toxic?

Speaking of toxic, I would recommend the book by Nancy Pearcey, The Toxic War on Masculinity. Three years ago, I interviewed her on her book and appreciated her sound, biblical perspective. She discovered that men who attend church regularly shatter all the negative stereotypes. They are more loving to their wives and more emotionally engaged with their children than any other group in America. They are less likely to divorce and the least likely to commit domestic violence.

Men are essential, unless you want to live in grass huts. They need to be encouraged and can find that encouragement in church. The first step is to get men back to church.