As a historical fiction/romance author, I spend a lot of time thinking romantic thoughts. No surprise there;) And I get precious emails and notes from women who wish they could find a godly hero like the ones I (and other Christian writers) write about. I understand that yearning. Once - not so long ago - I was there myself. I married late. Had babies late. Published books late. Well, later than I wanted, but right on schedule according to the eternal timetable. And that's the only one that matters.
In today's culture, we have to walk the courtship path very carefully. We're bombarded with ungodly heroes on a daily basis. That's why it's such a joy to create godly men, even on paper! Fortunately, I have many, many heroes from history to help flesh out my characters.I don't have a daughter but if I did, I'd get on my knees and pray for a George Whitefield for her. Seriously! Don't let the George fool you! I don't know if those of you who want to marry keep a list of qualities you desire in a man, but here, let me help you add to it...
*as a young man he began a lifelong practice of reading the Bible on his knees
*he chose godly friends (John and Charles Wesley, to name but two)
*he had a great sense of humor
*he had a heart for orphans and the poor
*he got up at 4 a.m. each morning
*he said holy things like, "I had rather wear out that rust out" when told he preached too much, and "We are immortal until our work is done."
*he had an amazing speaking voice - he preached in the open air to crowds of thirty to forty thousand people! If you don't believe it, ask Benjamin Franklin. He didn't believe it either till he went and heard for himself and emptied his pockets for his cause (and Franklin was so frugal he squeaked).
*he was so incredibly charismatic, that he (don't laugh) could reduce an audience to tears by simply pronouncing "Mesopotamia." So says historical sources!
Doesn't that sound like a real hero! Under inspiration, that is! If I wasn't smitten before I made that list (are you taking notes?), then this next comment finished me off...
"He lived. Other men seem to be only half alive; but Whitefield was all life, fire, wing, and force." ~Charles Spurgeon
Anyway, this post is from my heart to yours and far longer than I intended. I'm sure we all agree that no man, literary or otherwise, is worthy of worship. Just Jesus. Can you share a quality of Whitefield that speaks to you and you can add to your list? If you're married, does your real-life hero have a quality you love and can name here? Can you name a blessing of singleness?