Rules For Daily Living

Rules aren't very popular these days. In an anti-authority culture people will do almost anything to squirm out from under being told what to do. Even when the rules are there to help us, we still don't willingly embrace them. Why do we need referees at sporting games? Because without them someone will abuse the rules.

What's wrong with the ten guidelines?

Exodus 20
Then God instructed the people as follows:

I am the LORD your God, who rescued you from slavery in Egypt.

Do not worship any other gods besides me.

Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or animals or fish.

Do not misuse the name of the LORD your God.

Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days a week are set apart for your daily duties and regular work, but the seventh day is a day of rest dedicated to the LORD your God.

Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the LORD your God will give you.

Do not murder.

Do not commit adultery.

Do not steal.

Do not testify falsely against your neighbor.

Do not covet your neighbor's house. Do not covet your neighbor's wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else your neighbor owns.

Father, forgive me for treating the unfolding of your plan in the “old” testament as the museum of Christianity rather than the foundation of everything that points to Jesus and the cross. Teach me to understand the details so that I might appreciate the cross all the more.