Psalm 119:33 Teach me, LORD, the way of Your decrees, that I may follow it to the end.
I am a rule follower from way back. If you give me the rules, clearly lay them out for me, I can play by them and enforce them, no problem. And there is much to be said about being able to follow and enforce the rules. It can be a very good trait to possess.
Psalm 119:34 Give me understanding, so that I may keep Your law and obey it with all my heart.
But the Pharisees and Sadducees show another side of rule following. When you get so caught up in following the rules to the letter, when the goal becomes mindless adherence to the rules with no heart for what or why, it is definitely problematic.
Jer 29:13 You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.
Lord, Thank You for this day and for the reminder that while rules and laws are important and necessary, it is crucial that my heart is always involved when I seek You, strive to do Your will, and observe Your statutes. I am really good at following the rules, Lord. Don’t let me ever forget that first and foremost, I am following You with all my heart and soul. Help me to earnestly seek You daily, Lord. Draw me closer with every breath. Amen.
Deut 4:29 But if from there you will seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and all your soul.
Have a blessed day.