God is Better

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. I Thessalonians 5:19-24 (NASB)

Not long ago a young adult approached me with a very discouraged spirit. She had been on a trip with a group of adults who questioned some of the standards she had established in her life. She felt isolated at times, and one person suggested this young lady felt superior in some ways because of her standards. She chose not to respond to her peers, but wondered how to come to the point in her life that she would be able to share why she took the stand she did.

These verses make it so clear for us when we find ourselves in a situation where we have to make choices. As believers we can trust the voice of the Holy Spirit so we must be careful not to quench His direction. We must never criticize the beliefs of others, but we should test all things against the Word of God. Hang on tightly to truth and reject anything that is false.

We live in a world saturated with sin, leaving us unable to avoid the presence of evil. However, we can make sure to avoid situations where we find ourselves tempted, and focus on obedience to God, every moment of every day. That is where the decision of establishing standards in our lives comes into effect. When we desire to live a life that is holy and one that brings glory to God, the God of peace Himself will sanctify us completely! The result; our whole spirit, soul and body will be considered blameless, innocent of accusation.

Friends, never be ashamed to set a high standard in your life. When your motivation is to bring glory to God and to abe a witness of His power in your life, there is reward.

If you are accused of "thinking you are better" in the world's opinion, I say, "God is better!"

Jesus, Thank You for giving us such a simple plan for living a life that is holy. Keep us focused on Your Word and renew our strength each day.

Janet Stutzman