Biblical Guard Rails, Safety Rules, and Exit Ramps

“A fence at the top of the precipice is far better than an ambulance at the bottom of it.” J. Sidlow Baxter*

Some Christians overemphasize rules, but not all rules are bad. Some are like fences or guardrails that prevent our car from careening over the edge into a valley of sin.

Sometimes we need guardrails and other times we need safety rules. 

When we come to an intersection we need to look both ways, evaluate the oncoming dangers, and proceed only if the road is clear. 

We’ve all had “spiritual accidents” and ended up on unsafe roads that led to overeating, overspending, anger, immorality, irresponsibility, etc.

If we get ourselves in the middle of a temptation traffic jam, God promises to provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13). But He warns us to avoid unsafe roads altogether (2 Timothy 2:22).

We need guardrails and safety rules; and if neither work, we need to hurry off the exit ramp that God provides.

* Awake My Heart (Nov. 9-11) by J. Sidlow Baxter, Zondervan, 1960

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