Bible

Bible

God’s laws are perfect. They protect us, make us wise, and give us joy and light. God’s laws are pure, eternal, just. They are more desirable than gold. They are sweeter than honey dripping from a honeycomb. For they warn us away from harm and give success to those who obey them.

Psalm 19:7-11, TLB

Warning our children away from harm and pointing them toward success is what we want to do for them, right? We teach them not to touch the stove because we don’t want them to be burned. We instruct them not to play in the street because we don’t want them to get hit by a car. We teach them to do their homework and study for tests so they can enjoy the rewards of learning. We give them tangible laws to follow because we want the best for them.

Most parents set these guidelines because they care deeply about their children. But I’m amazed at how many parents present their kids with “ideas” as opposed to laws.

I was disheartened by a recent newspaper article written by a parent who said that abstinence before marriage is a fine idea, but that it is only an opinion—not a hard-and-fast rule. What’s the natural result of that approach? In a recent survey of three thousand couples conducted by Bride’s magazine, only 4 percent of the women and one percent of the men reported that they were virgins when they married.

What would happen if I taught my child that not exceeding the speed limit is only an opinion? He could cause an accident. God didn’t give ten opinions on Mt. Sinai—he gave the Ten Commandments, all of which point to Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of all God’s requirements.

It shouldn’t surprise us that God gave us laws for our spiritual well-being. Just as we physically protect our children, God has graciously established laws for our spiritual protection. His laws are based on truth and goodness—a sign of his great love and care.

Father,

Thank you that as we obey your Word, we experience protection, wisdom, joy, and light. Help us not to chafe at the boundaries you have set but to embrace them. Amen.