Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.   Romans 13:1 ESV

No matter what status we achieve or how high a position we hold, we always have rules. Rules are designed to keep us out of trouble. As we read through Genesis-Deuteronomy, God gave many rules. He anticipated every violation of these rules and also issued what He deemed to be appropriate punishment.

As human beings, we typically fit into one of two categories: rule followers and rule breakers. If you are a rule follower, then life will be a bit easier for you. For the rule breakers, they may spend their time being disciplined, and if they do not submit to authority at some point, they may find themselves in prison.

Our pastor often reminds us that God put these rules in place to protect us. He said that every time the Bible says, “Thou shalt not”, this is God’s way of saying, “don’t hurt yourself.”

If you are a rule follower and you pray and study your Bible, then you are one who probably does your best to imitate Christ, as we are encouraged to do in Ephesians 5:1. This doesn’t mean that you won’t face the temptation to break the rules. We are told in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” Rule followers turn to God for help because they don’t want to violate the rules. They want to do what is right.

Rules breakers, on the other hand, want to find a way around the rules. They look for loopholes. The Bible doesn’t say good things about breaking the rules.

There are two things we need to remember. First, you may not like the rules, but rules were made to protect us not for us to like them or for them to bring us pleasure. Secondly, you may not care for those who make the rules, but this does not mean you don’t have to follow them.

Following rules is not just about doing what is expected of you or what is right. It’s about doing what keeps you safe. God often directed the Israelites not to become involved with the pagan nations around them. He wanted them to be separate and to stand out from among the crowds. But most importantly, He wanted them to be safe from the temptation to worship other gods. He knew this would bring about destruction to them and their families.

When we refuse to follow the rules, it can have devastating consequences. Like me, you’ve probably been there, done that, and got the t-shirt.

Whether you like a rule or don’t like a rule, at least take time to think before you decide to violate that rule. Think about any possible negative consequences. Think about what could go wrong.

And when it comes to God’s rules, remember what Samuel told Saul in 1 Samuel 15:22 that God desired obedience over sacrifice. You can’t pay your way out of disobedience; keep that in mind. Your good deeds don’t erase disobedience any more than a diet drink erases a double cheeseburger with a large order of fries.

Before you break any of God’s rules, think carefully, are you sure you want to do that? Remember, God made that rule for a reason.

Have a great day!