Do you know what a plumb line is? It is a tool that consists of a small, heavy object attached to a string or rope and that is used especially to see if something (such as a wall) is perfectly vertical. When it comes to character and integrity, do we have a plumb line? We must have one because how then do you determine if ones character is flawed or upright?
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (AMP)
16 All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; 17 so that the [a]man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
When Joseph was confronted with temptation in the form of Potiphar’s wife enticing him to sleep with her, Joseph says something that is so powerful. He says, “How then could I do this great evil and sin against God?” God’s standard was the plumb line that was directing his life; it was the standard for his upright character because all he did was in line with pleasing God.
God gave us scripture for a reason and as the verse says it is profitable to train and instruct us, to correct us and show us where we are crooked so that we can make the necessary adjustments. The word of God transforms us because it renews the way we think by presenting us with a new perspective to life, the kingdom way of thinking. God is good and we love saying that, everything good comes from Him and thus good character can only come from Him.
Proverbs 9:10 (NIV)
10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
When you fear the Lord like Joseph did, then you will obey His word and it will direct the way you live your life. It is only in adhering to Gods word that our character can be changed because then we have a plumb line to keep checking whether we are straight or crooked. The word of God must take priority in our life if we are to be transformed. Knowing it is not enough because even Jesus said, “Why do you call me Lord, Lord yet you do not do what I say? Knowing understanding and implementing is what will make you run away from Potiphar’s wife.
