By now, many of us have seen the viral video from a Philadelphia Phillies game where a man caught a home run ball and gave it to his son, only to be confronted by an angry woman claiming he took it from her. The video evidence suggests he didn’t steal the ball, but that’s a discussion for another time. What’s concerning is his reaction—and it’s a reaction I believe many men might have in today’s society. He handed over the ball to the woman, avoiding confrontation altogether.

This story isn’t just about a baseball. It’s about a troubling trend: men yielding to pressure rather than standing firm. Society increasingly tells men to avoid conflict at all costs, to be more “understanding,” and to resolve disputes by any means necessary—even if it means compromising what’s right. But there’s a difference between taking the moral high ground and rolling over like a cowering dog. This man rolled over.

Why? Because confrontation is uncomfortable. Men are told they can’t be strong or masculine, especially when faced with an angry individual—sometimes stereotyped as a “Karen.” The message is clear: end the discomfort, no matter the cost. But in doing so, this father taught his young son a lifelong lesson: when faced with conflict, back down, avoid the fight, and don’t stand up for what’s right.

This wave of weakness is spreading across society, and it’s something we must address. As men, we will face confrontations—it’s inevitable. The question is, how do we respond? A Christian man, in particular, has a higher calling. He doesn’t need to be rude, intimidating, or violent. Instead, he should be strong, stern, and in control, modeling godly masculinity for his son. In this case, a firm response like, “I got the ball fairly, and it’s now my son’s. If you continue to harass us, we’ll call security. Have a great day,” would have been appropriate. Yes, it’s uncomfortable, but the lesson it teaches a young boy—stand up for what’s right when you’re in the right—far outweighs the temporary discomfort.

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.”1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (ESV)

As men, we have a responsibility to model strength and integrity, especially for the next generation. The father at the ballgame didn’t just give away a baseball—he missed an opportunity to teach his son to stand up for what’s right. We’re called to raise men who are bold yet humble, strong yet compassionate, and resolute yet respectful. By standing firm in the face of unreasonable demands, we demonstrate that masculinity isn’t about aggression or cowardice—it’s about conviction rooted in righteousness.

Let’s reject the societal pressure to roll over and instead embrace the biblical call to “act like men” (1 Corinthians 16:13). Our sons are watching, and the lessons we teach them today will shape the men they become tomorrow.