Limits and Freedom

(Pro 29:18 KJV)  Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

We must understand that in this verse we have a couplet.  The first line plays off against the second.  Having "vision" (2377) is the same as keeping the law.  The NASB margin has an alternate reading of “revelation” for vision.

We tend to look at rules and laws as limiting and keeping us from the sense of freedom that we so want.   We think that happiness is a result of getting what we want.  This reminds us again that God knows what is best for us.  I can relate to this in eating.  What I want in my gut is to stuff myself.  I want to eat the entire bag of chips, the big bag.  I want satiation.  God wants me to eat moderate quantities and enjoy what I eat.  One leads to lack of self control and obesity.  The other to health and general well being.  Don’t tell me that when I have a fresh bag of chips.  I won’t listen.

So?  God gives rules and standards for a reason.  He knows what will bring us the greatest satisfaction.  He is in it for the long haul.  It is called eternity.