Set the Standard

Ready:

“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” -- Ephesians 4:1 NLT

Set:

When Clemson University was looking for a new head coach in 2009, Dabo Swinney shared a bold vision, “My vision is to make Clemson so good that all the other programs want to be like us.” He got the job. And he hasn’t stopped raising the bar since. 

Creating a standard to live up to helps us fulfill our potential and ultimately becomes everything we’re made to be. And it helps us eliminate excuses, reject shortcuts, and avoid compromise. A standard creates accountability, especially when other people know what your standards are.

So, let’s talk about raising the bar to a higher standard. The standards you set define what you strive to become. I’ve found it helpful to phrase the components of my standard as “I Will” statements. 

· Mind

I will…Ignore the Noise: I will win the battle of the mind, crushing the lies of the enemy that attempt to discourage, focusing on what is true and right (Romans 12:1-2).

· Body

I will…Keep My Temple Pure: I will honor God by turning away from visual garbage and protecting my body from sexual sin (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

· Spirit

I will…Keep My Eyes on Jesus: I know that I can accomplish nothing if I get disconnected or distracted from Him and His purposes (John 15).

These “I Will” statements can help you stay focused on who you want to be and how you want to behave. They form the standard that you will aspire to live up to and ultimately the legacy you leave behind.

Go:

1. What standard will you set for the things you are willing to see, for your mindset, for how you will handle negativity.
2.  What standard will you set for how you will keep your body pure and healthy so that you honor God.
3.  What standard will you set so you stay connected to Jesus and fill your heart and soul with His truth that brings life? 

Workout:

Colossians 1:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Overtime:

“Father help me raise the bar in all areas of my life so that I can live a life worthy of the call you have on my life. Help me live the abundant life of freedom and influence. In Jesus’ name, Amen!”

Jimmy Page