I wrote yesterday about our Bible study on Colossians 3.18 – 4.1: let our relationship with Jesus be the model and impetus for our relationships with others. My friend Joel pointed out that we are being called to a higher standard.

For example, I said it was important for subordinates to submit because, when I was a commander, I told the folks, “I really want to be nice, but I don’t have a range of skills between ‘please’ and ‘the hammer.'” Joel’s response: “We’re called to a higher standard. If you didn’t have the skills you needed, you should have developed them!” A good word.

I heard recently of a Christian (so I’m told) husband who admits to “anger issues.” Well, guess what? We don’t get to have anger issues.

• Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. (Colossians 3.19, ESV)
• Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. (Colossians 3.21, ESV)

Sometimes we let ourselves off too easy. I’ve written before that the early church changed the world by living out the gospel. The behavior the Apostle Paul was calling for was counter-cultural. The men and I discussed that if we can’t do what we’re called to do, then we not only “trust God” and “rely on the Holy Spirit,” we train.

Train yourself for godliness. (1 Timothy 4.7, ESV)

“The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26.41) is a temporary condition. I’m weak post-surgery, but that’s temporary. That’s why I’m training and going to physical therapy. I’m “rebuilding the house,” physically and spiritually. I hope you’ll join me!

Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the LORD. (Haggai 1.8, NLT)