Purpose of No!

“Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, that every mouth may be closed, and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:19-20

Law, rules, regulations whatever you call this concept is about creating parameters of black and white. It gives you something to compare yourself to, a benchmark to measure yourself against – knowledge of right and wrong; what is safe and unsafe. You learn this from the time you are able to focus your eyes and thoughts. Normal infants quickly learn what brings them pleasure and satisfaction from their caregivers and act accordingly long before they can actually reason. By the time you are 17 you will have heard the word “no” an average of 72,000 times. When you read the Bible (first time and every time), you learn about God’s boundaries. These boundaries are the “no’s” of God’s creation. These “no’s” lead you to realise you need His gift of salvation and forgiveness. Isn’t that neat?

“Therefore you are without excuse, every man of you who passes judgment, for in that you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.” Romans 2:1

“’For I say to you, that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not commit murder’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever shall say to his brother, ‘Raca’ [idiot] shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever shall say, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell.’” Matthew 5:20-22

Know His Word. Take care. Your servant & friend in Christ, Darlene

PS: New: Billy and Michelle for RECOVERY. Ongoing Requests: Denny’s heart surgery. Bill - unspoken request; Australians recovering from natural disasters ; encouragement for support workers still labouring. God’s hands on new USA political administration. Barb to find the new job God has for her; wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, Gary, Michael, David & Adrian. Randy’s family moving to Canada and his ministry. New work projects for me. Amazing ways God is using the WeakDay Devotions lately!