Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Rules?

RULES?
Proverbs 9:7-12
V. 10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."



Playing 4-Square during recess from their third-grade classroom, Shakira blew Keith’s mind. Hitting the ball, she said, “You wanted to know the rules of being a Christian, Keith? There aren’t any.” (See What Happens When I Sin? devotion).

“Your first rule was for me to repent” Keith challenged, returning the ball.

“Yeah, well, repenting is the only way I know that’ll stop your yelling at Nina.”


“I’m confused” Keith admitted.


Shakira’s correct—sort of. God laid down many rules for His people in the Bible’s Old Testament. There were festivals to be observed, forbidden foods, commanded sacrifices. But Jesus changed all that. Ephesians 2:14-15 says that Jesus destroyed the dividing wall of hostility and abolished “in His flesh the law and its commandments and regulations.” The cross reconciled OT laws with the NT sacrifice in one body (Jesus). Only one rule remains. John 3:16 states that whoever “believes in Jesus will not perish, but have eternal life.”


Since Keith already trusts Jesus as his Savior, he’s Shakira’s brother-in-Christ. He’s a new person (2Corinthians 5:17), growing in righteousness from the inside out (2Thessalonians 2:13). The indwelling Holy Spirit directs his growth, reminds him of sin that needs repenting, and supplies him supernatural strength (Ephesians 3:19). So, strictly speaking, there aren’t more rules.


But…there’s always a but, isn’t there? The opening Scripture offers wisdom and understanding to those who fear God. Fearing God can be more accurately described as awed reverence. Can we acknowledge God as the sovereign ruler of heaven and earth? Do we agree that God makes all things turn out for good, for those who love Him, and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28)? Why then, is it difficult to submit to and obey His will? No wonder Keith is confused…this is a lot to get at one time.

Believers are offered, and advised to make life choices that enhance their walk. Gaining stuff like wisdom, empowerment to obey, or understanding from a divine perspective only come from surrendering to God’s will. Sheer will power isn’t enough. Human efforts always fall short of the goal. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can we live victoriously.


Who else empowers confidence for a person to live in joy, security, and achieve victory in both good times and bad?



Take Home Nugget



Beginning each day by confessing dependence on God makes the Holy Spirit accountable. Now it’s His job to lead us through everything we think, say, and do. Talk about awesome assurance and might!


Lord, thank you for my salvation,
Your grace and mercy, all for free!
Take charge of my sanctification,
Glorify Yourself through me.



J.D. Griffith





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