Titus2:2

Titus2:2 Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness.

Of all the things that a Christian man should aspire to, this is an interestingly short list. There are six things here - among all the hundreds of characteristics that could be possible... I wonder if these incorporate the hundreds, or if some Createan context is relevant... Hmmm. A little help from Webster's:

• Sober-minded. (Sober: 1 a : sparing in the use of food and drink : abstemious b : not addicted to intoxicating drink c : not drunk; 2 : marked by sedate or gravely or earnestly thoughtful character or demeanor; 3 : unhurried, calm; 4 : marked by temperance, moderation, or seriousness ; 5 : subdued in tone or color; 6 : showing no excessive or extreme qualities of fancy, emotion, or prejudice)-minded
• Dignity: 1 : the quality or state of being worthy, honored, or esteemed; 2 a : high rank, office, or position b : a legal title of nobility or honor; 3 archaic : dignitary; 4 : formal reserve or seriousness of manner, appearance, or language
• Self-controlled: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires
• Sound in Faith, Love: ((I think those are pretty clear))
  
• Steadfastness: 1 a : firmly fixed in place : immovable b : not subject to change; 2 : firm in belief, determination, or adherence : loyal

This paints a pretty firm picture of someone who knows what they believe and is serious about it. Obviously, to be sound in faith assumes orthodoxy (around which all this firmness and dignity is focused. Soundness in love adds a gentleness and other-focus as well... these are not jerks, but godly men, who love people. Growing in sanctification. (Do we make anything out of what's missing here? For instance, "missions-minded" isn't here... is that included in "sound in faith and in love"? Is that what Paul implies, or not? All people are included in the gospel-purpose of all this in v. 11. Also, v. 14 implies the saving/purifying of some out of a larger group. Not sure I could say missions is a focal point here - but clearly isn't left out. Hmmm). Although it's not all clear, there are definitely things here for me to desire and pursue. Strength of character, growing in God, love for others...