First Baptist Church of Herndon

Rule #1

Linda Soller | Mar 06, 2017

Rule #1 to me is pretty straight forward, it is “know the rules.” Take driving for example. As crazy as most of us find the roads and traffic we all know there are rules. True, we observe people all the time who elect not to follow the rules. Can you imagine what it would be like if there weren’t any rules to follow? I think gridlock sums it up. It’s important to understand there are rules for many things in life. We learn some things so young that they become habits and we no longer think of them as rules. But somewhere along the way the rules were set to guide us, to protect us, and to protect others. Covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough comes to mind. Simple actions dealing with simple situations, but rules none-the-less.

In the Bible there are stories of Jesus explaining the importance of the law (rules) and at the same time the importance of balancing the different rules which are in conflict. The leaders were angered when Jesus healed people on the Sabbath, but He explained how the rule to love and help one another was more important than the rule of resting on a particular day. Both served their purpose. Resting was important, it did show respect, but healing is caring and loving. That being said, Jesus was all about loving one another.

The world today seems full of rules on one hand and in need of a refresher course in rules on the other. This chaos is disturbing to most, and overwhelming to some. As stress and anxiety grow we see more and more confusion. What are the rules? Did the rules change? Why are people, even some in powerful positions, ignoring the rules? All good questions.

I cannot answer all the questions surrounding our cultural rules and their evolution or demise, depending on your point of view. I can tell you that the rules surrounding love have not changed, and if you know the rules you will be better for it.

Have a great week!     : o)  Linda

Don’t believe me? Open your Bible and read 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8.