GraceFox

As a little girl, I remember playing games on the lawn with other neighborhood kids – games including “Tag,” “Hide and Go Seek,” “Red Light, Green Light,” and “Simon Says.” Did you ever play the latter?

Someone – whoever was lucky enough to play the role of Simon – stood in front of everyone else and called out directions to them: “Take three steps forward.” “Move one step back.” “Hop three steps forward on your right foot.” Those who dared would try to sneak an extra step or two forward. If caught, they’d be sent back to the starting line. If not caught, they’d reach the finish line first and become Simon for the next round.

What fun we had! I look forward to introducing this game to my grandkids when they’re old enough to understand it. I also look forward to teaching them about the directives God has given His children. Take Psalm 37:1-11 for instance:

• V.1 – “Don’t worry about the wicked. Don’t envy those who do wrong.”
• V.3 – “Trust in the LORD and do good.”
• V.4 – “Take delight in the LORD.”
• V.5 – “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.”
• V. 7 – “Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.”
• V. 8 – “Stop your anger! Turn from your rage! Do not envy others – it only leads to harm.”

Take a moment to think about each of these directives. Which one speaks to you where you’re at today and why? Ask the Lord to teach you whatever you need to learn through it. And remember the rules…God gives the directives. If we try to wiggle our way around them, we lose. But when we follow them, we win.