The Measuring Stick

By Paula Williamson, guest writer

Why does life have to be about comparison and measurement? Those of us raised with low self-esteem can become preoccupied with never measuring up. Those of us raised with healthy self-esteem can struggle with self-importance. When Jesus, the Messiah, came, he leveled the ground for all of us.

It Is Written

GALATIANS 3:8 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 but He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me.

Level Ground

Jesus broke the measuring stick. The battle between never measuring up and pride ended with Him. The ground is level at the foot of the cross. We are all sinners in need of a Savior. Our love will never measure up to His—not our joy, not our suffering, not our good ideas, or anything else in this world. The heavy yoke rested on His shoulders. He set us free to love and live in and through Him and His limitless resources.

Prayer

Lord, when we are tempted to pull out the measuring stick, remind us of the cross, where all measuring ended, the ground became level, and we were freed from relying on ourselves. Thank You that in our weakness, You are always enough. In You there is no lack. We take a knee and say, thank You.

Takeaway

The cross eliminates all measurements.