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God's Instruction Manual for Life

by Celeste Bush

Webster defines standard as “something accepted as a basis for comparison: criterion”. In other words something by which something else can be judged or measured. The implication: that the standard is something that is good, or better than most of what we should strive to attain. However, in most instances if something is being compared then it is for the purpose of showing how it can be improved or to show where it is lacking. 

This would certainly be true of anything of God. If God has set it forth then we can be sure that there is nothing better – nothing else that can compare – regardless of what we may feel personally. 

And therein lies the rub.  We are fine with anything as long as it fits into our perception of what is acceptable. (Dare I say it…might we be speaking of our own standards?)  And yet, I believe, even the best of us struggle with, from time to time, operating as we know God wants us to. We may rise to the task occasionally but often we try to find excuses for not making it all the way.

God has said His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. It stands to reason that His standards would be just a tad beyond our reach as well – right?  Sounds a little like should we continue to sin so God can forgive us, doesn’t it?  Well, that is off base as well.

When it comes to God’s standards, there is no room for compromise. And best of all adhering to His standards only leads to a better way of life. As we identify God’s standards, we lay the groundwork for dealing with any situation or circumstance.  Oftentimes operating under God’s standards ensures that we will avoid situations that could lead us down the wrong path.

As God’s children we are to have standards – His. They help to define who we are, what we will and will not do or accept, how we deal with others, how we dress, how we speak, where we go. Not only do we have to know His standards, but we must also operate in them. They are the measuring stick for our lives. God’s standards are spelled out in His Word, the BIBLE. All we need to do is read His “instruction manual for life” and follow the directions.