Walk Free

So shall I keep Your law continually, forever and ever, and I will walk at liberty, for I seek Your precepts. Psalm 119:44-45

The rule had been the same for his sisters; no dating in high school. There were many conversations and attempted rule breaking debates. His parents remained firm. Now, at eighteen, a high school graduate and freshman on a college campus, the rule no longer applied. Freedom to date! After looking over the field of single young ladies, a special one had been chosen. Thanksgiving break meant separation after only three weeks of dating. The mother of this young man chuckled as she told the story of her conversation with this young son before he returned to college. He admitted, after detailing the wonderful points of dating, he now had more rules and responsibilities and much less freedom. There was a new sense of understanding the responsibilities in a dating relationship, and the purpose of the rule really did reflected the heart of his parents.

It is human nature to be caught up in the bondage of following the letters of the law. When there are boundaries, it is easy to respond to the limitations and complain about the opportunities that are withheld. Satan is ready to accuse and shower feelings of guilt and unworthiness. The truth of the Word of God becomes a book of rules and restrictions.

David experienced the joys of obedience to God and the consequences of sin in his life. Through these experiences, he came to understand the heart of God. The rules and commandments David was exposed to were not there to inhibit or restrain, they were there to protect and provide a path of freedom to be what God created him to be. In Psalm 119:30 David says I have chosen the way of truth; Your judgements I have laid before me. He understood there are less consequences and regrets in life when one purposely chooses the way of truth. In verse 35 he says he delights in walking in God's commandments.

The dating rule was designed to allow a period of maturity before the young son entered into dating relationships. The commandments and principles in the Bible teach us freedom from sin and the resulting oppressive guilt that surely follows. By living God's way - following His precepts, we gain strength to reject sin and freedom to fulfill God's plan for our lives. We can delight and walk in liberty, just as David did.

Lord, continue to work in our hearts. May we desire to be obedient and long to delight in your law. Thank you for your commandments and your love, and the freedom we have in You.

Janet Stutzman