It is so easy to fool ourselves into thinking that we are correct in our error. We measure by a flexible tape and weigh by a fluctuating scale. We can criticize the way others work, raise their children, manage their money, and spend their time; and do not see our laziness, lost children, compiled interest owed and irresponsibility.

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” (Proverbs 16:25). Since we can be so easily swayed by the absence of standards by those around us, and since we are so easily self-deceived, we must rely on a higher standard. The Lord says, “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:9). That is why it is so important that we constantly turn to the Lord for our standard. His justice must be our measuring line, and His righteousness, the plumb line. The Word of God is our daily guide, the Holy Spirit is our constant Counselor, and the Lord Jesus our sure foundation. Anything short of that would be shifting sand.