1 Corinthians 11:3–6, 8–10, 14–15 (NIV) “But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God… Does not the very nature of things teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering.”

When we read 1 Corinthians 11, it’s easy to get hung up on hair and head coverings. But the heart of this passage is far deeper. It’s about order, authority, and the gospel reflected in our lives. Just as the natural world follows consistent laws—physics, chemistry, biology—so God has established order in human relationships, especially in the home and the church.

Paul lays it out clearly: Christ is the head of the man, man is the head of the woman, and God is the head of Christ. This isn’t about worth or value. Both men and women are made in God’s image and are equally precious. Jesus is God. It’s about roles—God-ordained design that allows His glory to shine through us.

Men, your call is serious. Headship is not domination—it is servant leadership, modeled perfectly by Jesus. Christ humbled Himself, taking on the form of a servant, laying down His life for us. That is the measure of a man’s leadership: not how many people obey you, but how faithfully you follow Jesus and guide those under your care in love and truth. Women, your role is equally vital: to submit and partner with godly male leadership, teaching, nurturing, and stewarding God’s work in your families and communities.

This passage also shows that God uses visible distinctions to communicate His order. Paul references long hair for women and short hair for men. Beyond cultural specifics, the principle is clear: God gives identity, clarity, and honor within the roles He designs. Men should lead with strength and integrity; women should embrace their calling to obey, support, teach, and influence in alignment with God’s order. When both live faithfully, God’s wisdom and glory are displayed in the home, the church, and the world. Men, you must lead.

But this isn’t theoretical—it’s practical and urgent. Men, you must step into your role today: study God’s Word, pray for guidance, model humility, and serve your family sacrificially. Women, embrace your God-given identity and submit to your husbands, then influence the next generation in the knowledge of Christ. Together, men and women reflect God’s glory when they live in harmony with His design, not trying to lead in their own way or ignoring His order.

Run Today’s Play:

• Pray daily for God to make you a servant-leader in your home and church.

• Take one specific action this week to lead with Christlike humility—teaching, correcting in love, or sacrificially serving.

God designed men and women to glorify Him together. When we honor His order and live in submission to His Word, the world sees the wisdom of God, and His glory is unmistakable. Lead like Jesus. Serve like Jesus. Honor God, and watch His work flourish in your life and the lives of those around you.

For more help, read MAN Up! A guide to restoring Biblical manhood.