A Higher Standard

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14
 
I was just reading my inspiration for each day of the year, lovingly provided to me by our brother Max Lucado. His daily devotionals always get me thinking, but today’s message spoke near and dear to my heart. Just as I was feeling at a loss for how to give you the best glimpse of my testimony, God directed me to Pastor Max’s words.
 
On the morning of May 12^th Pastor Max reminisces on his days as a bachelor, sharing that he used to be quite the slob… Until he got married. His wife introduced him to what I call a ‘healthier lifestyle’, teaching him how to clean and organize some of the things in his house.
 
His newfound lifestyle is put to the test when his wife goes out of town. Initially he feels relieved because he knows that it’s possible for him to revert back to his old way of living -messy and sloppy- but once his sink was piled with dirty dishes, he couldn’t enjoy himself anymore.
 
“What happened to me? Simple. I’d been exposed to a higher standard.”
 
Ahhh, it all makes sense now. A higher standard. Before he moved in with his wife he had never experienced cleanliness. Which brings me to my next thought. Do you remember what your life was like before being exposed to God’s love and grace? I sure do.
 
Before I had a relationship with the Lord my life was spent living for myself. My life was quite sloppy and messy and out of control, just like Pastor Max’s hygiene, or lack thereof. It wasn’t until after I had witnessed God working in my life that I wanted to do better and be better, probably because I had come to know better.
 
God truly does work in mysterious ways. In order for my heart to be full of love, real, infinite love, my feet had to track through some mud and walk me through some dark places. But all of the mistakes and shortcomings were worth it in the end because I had come to know my Father and His promises.
 
I had been exposed to a higher standard. By partnering with the World Race I hope to act as God's hands and feet to do His wondrous work!!