As a former high school teacher, I spent ten years hearing teenagers complain about rules without reason. While students enjoy testing a teacher’s limits, pushing the envelope as far as possible, these complaints aren’t without merit. Sometimes I established rules that didn’t make sense. Following a methods course in Classroom Dynamics, I began to see the error of my way. Thus, I started to alter, change and eliminate any rules without reason.
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? – Luke 14:28
Unfortunately, the government not only thrives on creating rules without reason, new legislation often provides positions to enforce these new policies. While cell phone and texting laws are practical, some states have made it illegal to eat and drive. In fact if you want a big gulp from 7 Eleven, local officials are trying to prevent individuals from purchasing anything over 24 ounces. It’s no wonder that Frank Baum wrote the Wizard of Oz to illustrate the empty promises made by the United States government. Perhaps, a candidate in 2016 will run on the platform of ending rules without reason.
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.
The government is not the only culprit, as the church is not far behind, relying on theology written several hundred or in some cases thousands of years ago. In an attempt to force a congregation to adhere to a denominations’ beliefs, teetotalism can surface. This stringent enforcement contradicts free will, resulting in members feeling like they have the power to police others in the church. Perhaps, its time to exchange religion for a personal relationship with God. In doing so, the grace of God will flow as rules without reason are replaced with faith.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 