“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple.” Psalms 19:7
We have laws to prevent lawlessness. It makes sense, right? We need to have rules that protect the sanctity of life and enforce justice. Human laws, though, can be faulty. Sometimes they are designed to implement one group's desires over another ignoring their rights of the other. At other times they may be odd, archaic, or downright silly. Here are a few examples from a June 23, 2020 article in Business Insider magazine.
MASSACHUSETTS: Singing or playing only part of the national anthem or remixing it as dance music is punishable by a fine of not more than $100, according to Massachusetts State Legislature.
NEW HAMPSHIRE: It's illegal to carry away or collect seaweed at night.
RHODE ISLAND: Someone who bites off another person's limb will face no more than 20 years in prison but no less than one.
God's law, though, is perfect. Everything there is written for the benefit of all people and given for our well-being. While old, his law is not archaic; they remain as relevant today as when delivered to Moses.
“I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt not have any strange gods before Me.” ...
“Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.” ...
“Remember to keep holy the Sabbath day.” ...
“Honor thy father and mother.” ...
“Thou shalt not kill.” ...
“Thou shalt not commit adultery.”
“Thou shalt not steal.”
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.”
“Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife.”
“Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s goods.”
Jesus simplified it even more for us.
“‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”Matthew 22:37-40
God, we give you thanks for your simple, just, and perfect laws. When we follow your decrees, our souls become refresh because we are obeying your will. Please help us to uphold your laws above all others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Robinson, Melia. “The Most Ridiculous Law in Every State.” Business Insider, Business Insider, 23 June 2020, www.businessinsider.com/weird-state-laws-across-america-2018-1.
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