Loving Limitations

Therefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good. Romans 7:12 A mother tells her young children: “You may play in this children’s park, anywhere you like. But you may not play in the school playground over there.” The children ask, “Why?” And the mother explains: “Because you would have to cross this busy road which would be dangerous. So you may play here, but not there.”

Laws are meant to protect us and make our life better—not to frustrate us and limit our pleasure. Not only is that true of civil laws like speed limits, but it is also true of God’s laws. In Galatians 4:1-7, Paul used the illustration of children in his day who were guided by tutors until they matured, using the law as an example of a tutor. Just as a tutor would keep a young child from harm, so the laws of God can keep us from harm until we are old enough to understand God’s expectations and wisdom. Chafing against civil or spiritual laws is a sign of immaturity. If there is a law, commandment, or guideline you don’t see the need for, be patient. Trust that there is a loving reason for every limitation. When the law of God is written in our hearts our duty will be our delight. Matthew Henry – David Jeremiah

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