Thursday’s Thought

      A Mid-Week Inspirational Message

    © 2003-2009 Ron Adams

FENCED IN OR FENCED OUT?

     There was a playground for children surrounded by a secure fence with only one gate. The children loved to play there. One day someone said, "They are penned in–like animals, like prisoners. That's not good. Let's remove the fence and free them from such confines."

     The fence was removed. No more confinement. No more prison-like barriers.

     Then a parent noticed that the children were only playing near the center of the playground. Why weren't they using all of the space. In questioning the children, they found out that the children didn't feel secure without the fence. It became apparent that the fence was protective and restrictive. It kept them inside where it was safe, and kept out what was harmful.

CONFINED OR PROTECTED?

     A similar misconception is held by some when it comes to God's children. They believe the restrictions and prohibitions of the Lord's commandments keep them penned up, taking the joy out of living.

    The truth is, His commands are not burdensome; they are wholesome. They protect His followers from harm from without, and keep them from harming themselves by wandering off.

For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.

1 John 5:3

But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy.

Jude 1:24

Quotations from NASB