Whose Rules?

A child growing up thinks about his or her toys when other children are in the room and may not be ready to share because they are called, "MINE!" When it comes to playing one of their games we might hear, "It's MY game and if you don't like playing by MY rules, then you can go home." Isn't it wonderful that such attitudes are outgrown as we all get older? Unfortunately the reality is such a focus often remains and becomes attached to things of greater significance than games or toys. How often have we heard someone say, "It's MY LIFE and I'm going to live it MY WAY!"?

When it comes to rules, what benefit do they provide? For one thing they put everyone on the same page as far as expectations. Rules provide consistency for fairness. Rules also direct toward an intended outcome. There are many areas of LIFE where rules need to be followed. This is simply understood, such as in an aspect of LIFE Paul mentioned in his second letter to Timothy where we read. . .

"AN ATHLETE is not crowned unless he COMPETES ACCORDING TO THE RULES." ( 2 Timothy 2:5 ESV)

For the athlete to fail to follow the rules, they will find themselves being disqualified from the competition. The rules apply. No player is exempt. The expectation is for the rules to be followed.

In the psalms we read. . .
"(155) Salvation is far from the wicked, for they do not seek your statutes. (156) Great is your mercy, O LORD; GIVE ME LIFE ACCORDING TO YOUR RULES." ( Psalm 119:155-156 ESV)

Some refer to our existence as being involved in the "game of life." Should that be expected without any rules? And who should be considered in the right to establish those rules? The players or the "game" Designer? God brought life into existence with His purposes and ultimate goal in mind. He desires to have a relationship with us and to eventually bring us into His eternal presence. What I want does not always lead that direction. What I want does not always have the best interests of others in mind. It is what GOD WANTS that puts us all on an equal playing level, serves to bring mutual benefit, and will ultimately get us to where HE WANTS us!

Let us continue to live LIFE according to HIS RULES. God has put together a plan so we can know what to expect of Him and where He wants us. Paul urged the Corinthians to run to win. ( 1 Corinthians 9:24) May we find LIFE'S greatest blessing as it is lived according to the rules of LIFE as set forth by God!

Have a great day WINNING AT LIFE BY GOD'S RULES!
Carl

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