What are standards? What are norms? What are high expectations? I believe the answer to these questions are all focused on one theme - intentionally building culture. Think about who has standards in the world... athletes in sports, the government, higher education, and of course, the church. Not everyone is going to like standards. Not everyone is going to accept or even buy into the standards, but that's what makes a culture standout with it's own unique proposition. The question is, will you stand by those standards? The options are you either buy into them or you don't join the movement nor embrace the culture. Either is fine as long as it's aligned to the will of God for you. Before I continue, think about this: what must first change in order to realize desired results; in other words, who must change before there is any growth to occur? The answer is simple; it's YOU. We must first change ourselves, within ourselves, in order to experience the victories we desire in life. If we rub up against a standard the "wrong way," is it because it's not part of God's will for our lives or is it because we are experiencing the need, and need I remind you of the inevitable need, for change? We have to know the answer to that question. Let me give you an example.
A standard at my previous church was to sit out 90 days if we staggered in our walk with God and were living an unholy life (with the assumption of membership and serving in any ministry of the church). I don't want to expound on what it means to be unholy, so let's assume unholy is not living according to the Word of God, consider the issue. This standards really sets a tone with the churches' culture. It sets a high expectation of serving in the ministry correlated with being a witness for all who come to the church, especially for the unbelievers and/or newcomers. It's not meant to be punitive, although with the wrong attitude it can surely be taken that way. The second part of it is the development of self. That part of the standard says that if you're a part of the culture at this church then you're doing whatever it takes to be the best that God has called you to be. In turn, if someone has to sit out 90 days before serving again, the purpose is to rebuild the greatest need - to be right with God! It's all about relationship. The mindset is if you're right with Jesus and in His perfect will, then anything you put your hands to will prosper including the culture of the church according to its standards.
Therefore, develop a good attitude about standards and set standards for your family, for you team, for your classroom, for your relationships. It's whole intention is to build a culture that promotes self growth and most importantly fosters an upright relationship with Jesus and the calling He has on your life!
