Rule of Thumb

We have a saying in the English language that speaks of a 'rule of thumb.' It is thought to have originated from carpenters who would rather use the width of their thumbs to make measurements, instead of tape measures. It has connotations of being an imprecise way of measuring things, but it is still viewed as being a 'reliable' and convenient standard.

When it comes to Christianity, we may use the phrase in an example like this:

"It is a good rule of thumb to treat others as we would want them to treat us."   OR

"As a rule of thumb, loving others is a way of showing our love towards God."

The trouble with 'rules of thumb' in our Christian context, is that sometimes human traditions get passed down as Christian values. Something may have been in our church cultures for so long, that we take it as being the truth or the norm, but it may still be off track. We need to keep our spiritual 'rules of thumb' in line with the Scriptures. Coming back to the Word of God is always a better method for 'measuring' things.

What do you think?

Living in Grace
D3LM3