Laws, rules, guidelines — they all do the same thing: set boundaries.

They give you freedom to move around within a prescribed set of parameters. They take the guesswork out of knowing what you can and cannot do. Without rules, the “mob rule” of anarchy reigns.

Some rules are tyrannical and despotic. They oppress a certain element of society while artificially elevating others. Such a system essentially imprisons those within it.

However, when rules are fair and fairly enforced, they can actually give followers greater freedom than the chaos that accompanies anarchy. They also eliminate the cruelty inherent in oppression.

That’s the way it is with God. Within the pages of the Bible are God’s guidelines, desires, and expectations for His children. The Bible is filled with God’s promises, telling us the “rules” for receiving His tender mercies and blessings that only He can give.

God’s boundaries never bring us harm. Instead, they bring joy, fulfillment, and success. Let God’s mercies rain down on you today and every day!