Everyone Has Rights, Right?

Exodus 20:1-22:15

The Ten Commandments and the instructions following the Ten Commandments are profound.

Today's OYCB reading, although touching unpopular subjects, is practical to a perceived fault in today's society.

First, there is a right way to treat God.

Second, there is a right way to treat people.

Ironically enough, in light of the previous two statements, two underlying implications found in today's reading are that there is a social order among genders and that slavery (but not racism) is a practical social welfare solution.

Although the Bible seems to embrace gender inequality and slavery, it does also, in fact, address very specific guidelines to care for and preserve life in both practices. Because of gross abuses in these practices however, most societies have discarded them altogether.

Another topic touched on in today's reading is the treatment and respect of father and mother. Once again, society has discarded Biblical instruction in this area.

And that is where we stand. Everyone has rights, right?

It is not ironic to me that our society is experiencing ongoing chaos in gender issues, welfare issues, and in the family. We have, in practice, become slaves to our rights.

Father, I have considered the Bible's presentation of these subjects many times and have arrived at the same conclusion consistently. It seems to me that there can be no order except Your order that will promote a healthy society that actually works.