FAITH & INSIGHT: For your own good

I spend quite a few mornings at the city pool. I get a kick out of reading the pool rules.

POOL RULES

No running.

No diving in shallow water.

No rough play.

Stay off the ropes.

Listen to the lifeguards.

Have fun!

I always smile when I read the last rule, "Have fun!" I can hear what I would have said when I was a kid. "How can I have fun when I have to follow all those rules?"

Some people look at God and His Word in the same way. "Do this and this and this. Don't do this or that or the other. Be happy." How can I be happy when I have to follow all those rules?

First of all, the Bible is much more than a rule book. Some prefer to call it a love letter from God Himself. Yes, there are instructions, but notice their purpose:

"Observe the Lord's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good ... Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you." (Deuteronomy 10:13, Jeremiah 7:23)

I have to admit that I usually didn't believe it when my folks told me that their rules were for my own good. I believe it now. And, I believe God too.

"This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome"

(I John 5:3).

The churches of Carson City extend an open invitation to you and your family. Have fun!

* Bruce Henderson, minister Airport Road, Church of Christ, Carson City.