Teacher”™s use various methods to spur students on to doing their best. Students graduate to the next level as they meet the required standards which have been established.

For the follower”™s of Christ ““ obedience to God”™s words are important. We are to become more like Christ Jesus. Will we reach perfection? Not in this life”¦for we are still human beings with flaws. We need Jesus.

The life of a “˜born again”™ believer is one of dependence on God and His words. We are to put His words into action in our lives. At the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said of His followers “˜You are the light of the world.”™ To be lights in our world is to live a life that is different from those who are without the Lord Jesus.

(Amplified Bible) Matthew 5:48 “You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity], as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

As a follower of Christ, we are to go on to maturity”¦leaving behind our childishness and becoming child-like. (There is a big difference!)

Question: Does your mind still process things through the filter of the world or are you filtering your thoughts through God”™s word?

Question: Is your character developing and growing or has it become stunted?

Question: What about your virtue and integrity”¦what is your reputation?

God”™s standards are high.

(NASB) Leviticus 19:2 “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.”

Are your standards set by the world or by God?