One of my new favorite movies is The Ron Clark Story. Starring the late Matthew Perry, this motivational film captures the life of Ron Clark, a man who has a passion for teaching. Mr. Clark accepts a position at an inner-city school in New York—leaving behind his comfortable life in North Carolina.

His first day on the job is anything but successful. After enduring ill-mannered behavior, Mr. Clark quickly realizes his students have much to learn—and sets out to prove that a classroom without rules only leads to chaos.

His remedy was simple: if the students adhered to his practical and reasonable protocols, their time in class would be fun and enjoyable. If they rebelled, consequences would surely follow. At first, the kids scoffed, believing Mr. Clark to be unfair. Eventually, they began to see that behind this set of rules was a caring teacher who wanted only the best for them. I discovered the same is true in our spiritual walk.

The Bible tells us in 1 John 5:3, Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome (NLT).

How many of us have viewed the Bible as a bunch of rules that seems impossible to follow? Much like Mr. Clark’s unruly students, we may be tempted to shout in anger, stomp our feet, or stick out our tongue. Because of our sinful nature, our hearts are stubborn, and we often don’t consider the consequences of our actions. But we also have a Teacher who keeps us under His protective wing.

Mr. Clark knows that his expectations are for everyone’s benefit—because he sees what the kids do not: a classroom full of love and unity. And no matter how unwilling our flesh may seem, the Lord knows that His Word helps us become all that we were meant to be.

As we learn to abide in God’s truth, our hearts overflow with peace and joy. If you feel like you’ve gone your own way for far too long, know that it’s never too late to turn in a new direction. Begin to see God’s love for you in a new light—for His Word is beneficial, not burdensome.

Dear Jesus, thank You for coming down from heaven to fulfill the law perfectly—knowing that we could never do it in our own strength. Forgive us when we neglect Your Word, which is abundant in wisdom and guidance. May we follow You with the help of the Holy Spirit, so we can fully enjoy the life You’ve given us.

~

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.