Occasionally my wife and I unwind by watching the Great British Baking Show.
The head honcho and chief baker who judges the contestants has very high standards.
This is unnerving for the participants.
But I’ve noticed it’s these high standards that help the bakers improve and excel as the season’s episodes unfold.
In a day when standards are trending downward, the need for them is worth remembering.
The Bible tells us not to be conformed to the standards of this world (Rom. 12:2).
Rather, we’re to do everything for the glory of God as we walk in the ways of His kingdom (1 Cor. 10:31).
It’s in this way our light shines before men (Mt. 5:16).
And involves the standards we keep regarding personal morality, work habits, attention to details, use of time, generosity, commitment to truth and love, etc.
Of course, no man earns God’s favor by how well he keeps His standards, as revealed in His commandments, laws, precepts, etc.
But it’s by these we know what pleases Him.
One of my mentors noted how Oswald Chambers conveyed the right idea by calling his book, ‘My Utmost for His Highest’ — not ‘My Mediocrity for His Highest.’
Jesus raised the bar even higher when He said, ‘Be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect’ (Mt. 5:48).
Is there some area God would have you raise your standards today?
