If you want to see something amusing, go to a few youth league games and hope there’s a rundown play. Inevitably, the ball will be tossed back and forth several times, with the runner doing his best to stay in the pickle as long as possible.
What’s most amusing is when the runner tries to avoid a tag…running WAY outside the baseline to do so. Obviously, he will be called out, and his coaches will tell him that, regardless of what the defense is doing, he must stay within the baseline.
When you leave the baseline, regardless of the reason, you’re going to pay the price.
Just like in the game, there are lots of excuses for leaving the baselines in life. “I didn’t know. I was scared. I didn’t see any other way.” It goes on and on.
Proverbs 2:20–“So you will walk in the way of good men, and keep to the paths of the righteous.”
Yet, when we get outside what God wants for us, it always costs us. We may feel free for a time, but it will eventually lead to our demise.
This isn’t some vindictive threat from God. It’s just the natural result when we violate his guidelines, commands, and instructions.
The rules of baseball are there for a reason: to ensure the game is played correctly and played well. God’s Word is the same for our lives. He wants what is best for us and we only find that by staying within his baselines.
Lord Jesus, as a sinful human, my tendency is to run outside your baselines. Thank you for the promise of forgiveness. Today, I repent and turn to you. Keep me where I need to be.
