Rules of the Kingdom
And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 2 Timothy 2:5
Years ago, the Summer Olympics was held in London. The marathon race started with a couple of laps in the stadium and then took to the streets to run the race. A couple of hours later, as the leaders neared the stadium, an imposter jumped in and led the way into the stadium. Everyone in the race knew this, but the spectators didn't so this guy got all the applause he didn't earn. He wasn't trying to steal a win, he was after glory.
Rules are so important. Without them, anarchy rules. We have rules for everything and, admittedly, some rules are stupid in nature, but most help us live good lives. God also has rules that can't be violated. Another word for rule is law. The law of gravity cannot be violated. An airplane uses thrust and lift to overcome gravity, but it can't do away with gravity. Just cut the power and you'll find that out. God has also set a law for getting into heaven and it can't be broken. The law is simple but very strict. It involves making Jesus lord of your life. Heaven is waiting for everyone who will follow that rule.
By Rick (Papa) Wilson