How Is My Rule Of Life?
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Judges 13:1-25 and Psalm 35:17-28 (NIV)
(Gladwin Lee, Pastor)
READ:
Judges 13:8, 12 (NRSVue) caught my attention.
Manoah’s response when he received news of his wife’s pregnancy stood out for me. In particular when the author of Judges emphasized Manoah’s request in Judges 13:8, “Manoah entreated the LORD and said, “O my Lord, I pray, let the man of God whom you sent come to us again and teach us what we are to do concerning the boy who will be born.”
Manoah’s question to the angel in Judges 13:12 about how to raise his son (Samson) also stood out for me, “Now when your words come true, what is to be the boy’s rule of life; what is he to do?”
OBSERVE:
Manoah’s request in Judges 13:8 showed that he was a man who was keenly aware that doing things God’s ways could be different from regular conventions in our secular world.
When Manoah asked for the boy’s rule of life, he was asking for a particular way of life that would govern how his son should live his life and work. A rule of life is a holy rhythm that shapes us to live a life of purity, love and in the power of God.
APPLY:
I am reminded that all of us Christians, like Samson, have been called to live a life set apart for God. Therefore, Manoah’s question for guidance on his son’s rule of life, led me to review my current rule of life that includes (1) doing daily lectio divina (2) practising the prayer of Examen daily, (3) reading daily so as to complete 2 books a month, (4) spending time with my family on a weekly basis, and (5) exercising at least three times a week.
My current rule of life was last updated in 2021 during our church-wide, Year of Sabbath-Rest. As a result of Manoah’s question, I am led to reflect on my personal growth since.
During this reflection, I experienced a variety of emotions. I am grateful for my rule of life. It has given me handles to be more attuned to God despite the ebbs and flows of life. My heart aches at my reluctance to be still with God. I cut spiritual corners to complete my daily reading of God’s Word as I do not slow down to listen for God’s voice. God’s fresh invitation to be still in His presence regularly, has sparked fresh excitement in my soul.
DO:
Going forward, I hope to continue to observe my rule of life.
PRAY:
Abba Father, thank You for Your reminder and call to live a life set apart for You. Guide me so that I may know You more, daily. As I seek to learn to be more present to You, guide my eyes and ears so that I may discern Your presence more clearly. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
