ON STANDARDS
“A satisfied soul loathes the honeycomb, But to a hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.” Proverbs 27:7 NKJV
In today’s world, standards seem to be defined by varying beliefs and practices.
As believers, however, our standards are clearly laid out in scripture. They are simple, yet complex, in that we need the help of our Lord to live up to them. It’s an interesting paradox that we say we need help to do what is simple. Yet, this is the reality Paul points to in 1 Corinthians 3:19. Our theme scripture presents an important lesson. Desperation, pressure, disappointment, or unbelief can cause someone to lower their standards to the point where they settle for less than God’s best for them. In simpler terms, Solomon is saying that when your appetite is high, your standards go low because anything seems good.
However, when you are full, you are more selective in your preferences and desires. This happens with believers too. For example, you may have believed God for marital settlement, but when it hasn’t yet happened, you lower your standard and settle for someone who is unequally yoked, fearing you are running out of time. Similarly, you may have believed God for a child. You’ve received prophetic word after prophetic word, assuring you that you will bear your own child and that it will happen naturally, without artificial means. But as time passes, your hope wanes, and your faith weakens. In desperation, you engage in costly procedures, both financially and emotionally, fearing that God is late or won’t come through. This is not meant to guilt or shame anyone who has made decisions they thought were best.
However, for the child of God who has experienced His faithfulness in many areas of life—what deceived you into thinking He will fail you in this particular area? Even when we are faithless, the Bible says He remains faithful. His blessings add no sorrow or shame. One of the signs of a miracle that is manufactured out of its time is the indescribable sorrow and shame it carries. Do not settle for less than God’s best out of unbelief. He is faithful to perform His Word. Hallelujah!
Prayer: Father, I thank You for this word. I pray for every child of Yours who feels pressed on every side by circumstances that seem to contradict Your promises. Strengthen their spirits, reminding them that the enemy may fight hard, but he will not prevail. May Your grace abound where we fall short, and may we enjoy a harvest of abundance, glorifying You in our obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
•2 Timothy 2:13
•Psalm 138:2
