Our culture tells us that when we have no rules, we can be ultimately free.

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.” (Psalm 32: 8-9)

Having a master works. We need to follow. When someone who knows more than us leads the way, it’s very comforting as we face struggles and bumps in the road.

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I used to work with a friend who hates rules. And his self-direction seems to always end in self-destruction. He does not like to follow. Because he insisted on doing everything his way, it eventually cost him his job.

I also struggle with not wanting to follow. My wife often has good ideas. I chafe at having to do something different than my idea of what needs to happen.

And systems? I hate having to follow the prompts in a phone menu. I don’t tend to swear, but those menus push me close to the brink!

And yet Jesus says, “Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me” (John 12:26).

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Paul Merrill writes here every first Friday.

Paul created the image using two pens and a piece of cardboard.