When it comes to laws and regulations, while some are open to the guidance and even protection they provide, there are many who seem to spend their time looking for loopholes. In many general instructions where common sense might lead us to understand other elements not specifically stated, if something is not explicitly specified, some declare the omission a justified right. Behind some of this is merely the lack of desire to obey. Some simply do not like the perceived restriction of regulations and rules. However, when it comes to the commands of God Whose wisdom is far higher than our own (Isaiah 55:8-9), are we learning to love obeying Him? Not just obeying for fear of His wrath, but actually loving to obey because we know He loves us and His commands truly have our highest good in mind.
One of the psalmists wrote. . .
“(35) Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. (36) Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! (37) Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.” (Psalm 119:35-37 ESV)
Do we share in the psalmist’s delight? Are we duly inclined to accept God’s commands because we know they bring us to living the best life possible? Understanding there are ways which may seem right to human understanding, some of those things actually lead away from God to death. (Proverbs 14:12) Life is to be pursued according to His ways. Are we coming to understand the significance of it being more about relationship than merely rules?
John wrote. . .
“(3) And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. (4) Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, (5) but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: (6) whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” (1 John 2:3-6 ESV)
Do we have a love for loopholes or truly have a love for God and His Will? Love is being perfected in us when we are growing in being more concerned about breaking God’s heart than breaking His commands. That is a mark of an abiding love for the abiding relationship with Him. Knowing the Creator of life has lovingly provided all the means necessary for giving us eternal life, may we grow in a love for obeying and pleasing Him!
Have a great day LOVING TO LIVE THE LIFE GOD LOVES!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
