A Cup of This, a Tablespoon of That
Ruth Ann Stites, Staff Writer
What kind of cook are you? I tend to be a “substitute this for that, let’s experiment” cook rather than a “it tastes the same each time I make it” cook. I can assure you some of my trials are failures as well as some being unrepeatable successes. Take making chili for example. I have a favorite recipe I sometimes use, especially for a party, but usually my pot of chili depends on what I have in the cupboard or refrigerator. Still, I know the importance of measuring my spices to get the best results and tasting to ensure the flavor is right. Even my style of freeform cooking is based on measurement.
Measuring things means we are setting limits and defining outcomes. It allows us both to determine the state of a thing and the way we want the end product to appear or function. It gives us guidelines and feedback that help us achieve our goals.
When I was in grad school, I learned to construct pre- and post- tests to determine the level of learning achieved through teaching a concept or practice. These measurements allowed both the teacher and the student to determine the amount of change achieved through instruction. With that information in hand, we can make needed changes to our lesson plan to achieve mastery of the subject or skill we are seeking to learn.
And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? (Heb. 12:5-7).
So, knowing the result we want to achieve, being like Him, how are the circumstances of our lives teaching us to measure up to His character, His purpose, and His will for each of us? Do we see His likeness in our cross carrying? If we do, we should go on to the next level. If not, we need to change how we are doing our lessons so we can advance in being like our Master.
(Photo credit: RA Stites)
