The Plumb Line Has Been Set

It’s no secret that I’d like to be married. Putting it in writing here does nothing more than state the obvious.

I’ve been thinking lately on that “wish list” every girl creates when envisioning the perfect guy for her. I remember first making this mental list (maybe even writing it down in a little used journal) when I was in high school. I remember wanting things like strong hands, funny personality, good character, a love for children, and an obvious desire for the Lord (in no apparent order). As I got older, my list has changed and evolved. Things I thought were important moved from needs to wants to indifferences. Other things that I had placed lesser value moved into greater. As I grew and changed, so did my realization of what would make that perfect man.

Recently I was talking with a friend about some standards that I hold for a mate that are non-negotiable. Things not having to do with personality or looks, but things having to do with character, and as a result, actions based on their character.

“Maybe you’re too picky to every get married, Tara.”

Though she meant no harm, my friend’s statement struck a cord. And the words have haunted me ever since.

In retrospect, I’m glad she said what she did. It has made me re-examine my measuring stick a little. This moment could have easily made me lower my standards, fudge on a few things and compromise a little more. But instead, it has challenged me to raise my standards and strive for that excellence.

Now, obviously, I know no man is perfect just as I am not perfect. And before anyone begins to tell me that I am asking for the impossible, know that the perfection I am looking for is only the perfection of what God has asked us to become through Him.

Amos 7:7-8 – “This is what the Lord showed me: the Lord was standing by a wall that had been build true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. And the Lord asked me, ‘what do you see, Amos?’ ‘A plumb line,’ I replied. Then the Lord said, ‘Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel.’”

The plumb line has been set by the Lord. I am just waiting for someone who is trying to match it.