‘We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.’ [1 Timothy 1:8 NIV]
Image by Kostya Kisleyko
This verse stood out to me when I was reading my Bible last week. It reminded me of what we say about many things in life when used properly. For example a nail gun. When used properly this tool is very helpful, but if not, it can be downright dangerous.
So then, the law, if not used properly can be dangerous too? Or at the least detrimental? It made me think and reflect on different Scriptures.
The law, when adhered to stringently, can be binding. We can become so inflexible on rules and regulations that we lose sight of grace. We become unbending and judgmental to those around us.
On the other hand, if we become too liberal, taking advantage of the grace offered us through Christ’s death on the cross, we disrespect all that He has done for us. As it says in Hebrews 10, ‘If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left.’
Therefore, it seems we must find a balance — use the law properly. The law must be written on our heart as a high standard we aspire to, though with the knowledge that if we fail from time to time, we are covered by the grace wrought on the cross. Neither living in condemnation nor without any self-control or discipline. The law, when used properly serves to protect us and help us be the best we can be.
Where are you today? On the legalistic, judgmental side, or too liberal with your morality, or have you found the right balance?
Romancing The Rock 
How interesting you should post on this, Amanda. We’ve been studying this aspect of law and grace in church. Our pastor said a great example is a plane trying to rise, and the law is like gravity holding it back. And with us it’s so hard to rise above our sinful natures. But when we live in the Spirit a different law comes into effect. God’s grace is like the more powerful law of thermodynamics allowing the plane to resist gravity’s drag and to soar to the heights. And so with us.
Hi Ritah, thanks for stopping by. I love the image of the plane as a picture of grace vs law. Thanks. 🙂
It can be a very fine balance, can’t it? Thanks for this post, Amanda.
Hi Paula. Yes, it’s easy to swing one way or the other.