Fences in Black & White


Most of us do not see the world in black and white except for those who are color blind. In fact, most of us see the world in a wide spectrum of colors. Unfortunately, the world we live in also tends to personalize their spirituality by coloring in their own views and opinions. They/we also do not like fences that keep us from doing whatever we please wherever we please.

The truth is that God gave us the Bible that includes fences and very clear distinctions between right and wrong. You may not like it and you may not agree with it but there is One who earned the right to lay down the boundaries because He made the universe in which His rules exist. He is God and we are not.

BUT, these rules, laws, commandments or instructions are not meant to stifle your creativity or keep you from having fun; their purpose is to protect you, keep you healthy, and make life more pleasurable. There were way too many laws written down and expanded upon in the years leading up to Jesus' appearance, so He made it very simple for us -- just two!

1. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. (Matthew 22:37)

2. Love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:39)

Do these two things and there will be peace on earth, good will toward man now... AND there will be an eternal home for you with your Heavenly Father when this mortal life is over.

Let there be no doubt... Christmas was meant to break down barriers and open the gates for all to know God personally, but a holy God also desires from us purity, obedience and right living. He does not erect walls to keep us from the world's influence but provide us fences from which we can still interact and influence the world.

Love God. Love others. Love yourself. It's really that black & white!

Blue Ridge Parkway

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