WHEN PICKLES BREAK THE LAW
Did you know in Connecticut it’s illegal to sell a pickle that doesn’t bounce? And if you’re in Hawaii you're not allowed to put a coin in your ear. In Oklahoma you can’t give yourself a haircut, and in Maryland it’s against the law to curse while driving. These are called “Blue Laws,” ordinances that are still on the books in various states. (https://www.rd.com/list/dumbest-laws-america/)
Although they seem nonsensical, originally these injunctions served a purpose. The 1948 Connecticut pickle law prevented vendors from selling rotten pickles. As for not giving yourself a haircut in Oklahoma … your guess is as good as mine.
In contrast to these crazy laws, when we turn to God’s word, it’s refreshing to find commands that not only make sense, but offer practical help for daily life. Practicing a Biblical lifestyle provides long life, good health, and the ability to avoid all kinds of trouble, just to name a few benefits (Proverbs 3:13-18). But for those of us who ignore what God’s word teaches, and practice such things as perpetual lying, sexual promiscuity, and substance abuse, we discover the consequences eventually catch up with us. However, living by God’s Word brings peace, joy and real life. Following the Bible makes sense.
Sure, there are some Biblical commands that on the surface sound like Blue Laws. Several Old Testament passages leave us scratching our heads—such as laws centering on slavery, women, and children. But a closer inspection reveals these laws exist to protect vulnerable people groups, not harm them. In fact, these laws demonstrate how radical the Bible is in the advancement of human rights. No other culture contemporary with the Old Testament had ever seen laws providing these kinds of rights to victimized people.
God’s word is truly “a lamp for my feet, a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105). Give the Bible a try. You just might be surprised at its wisdom.
Ponder:
When have you enjoyed the wisdom of following the teachings of scripture?
When have you experienced the consequences of ignoring what God’s word teaches? What did you learn?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Proverbs 3.
Lord God, thank you for your word and the wisdom it offers. Please lead me, so that I follow it more closely.
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Photo courtesy of Reading Eagle