New Sheriff In Town
This phrase came to be when from American western lore when the previous sheriff who was in charge of the law and order in the town was killed and a replacement was hired. The new sheriff may have stricter or more relaxed rules. It was always a transition for the people to adjust to the new lawman in their midst. The Sheriff often made some of the rules and was also charged with enforcing the rule of law.
The people of Israel were adjusting to the Lord being very active in their lives. They were under a new “sheriff” because the Lord Himself was handing down the codes of conduct and the punishments if these rules were not followed. The list was long and often rated PG-13 but made sense. The list of rules and regulations were also very clear. This was no longer Egypt. This was now the nation of Israel and they were to govern themselves using the rules that God had given to Moses for them. Check this out….
22 “You must keep all my decrees and regulations by putting them into practice; otherwise the land to which I am bringing you as your new home will vomit you out. 23 Do not live according to the customs of the people I am driving out before you. It is because they do these shameful things that I detest them. 24 But I have promised you, ‘You will possess their land because I will give it to you as your possession—a land flowing with milk and honey.’ I am the Lord your God, who has set you apart from all other people. (Leviticus 20:22-24 NLT)
The Lord is still the source of code by which to live by. He has given instructions for how I am to conduct my life. I’m really thankful that He made a way for me to be restored without having to go kill a cow, goat or bird. God’s Son Jesus became the final sacrifice needed for sin. Most of the lifestyle that was prohibited with the new nation is still prohibited today. He has given us instructions how to treat one another as well as treat ourselves. The Word of God is our guide and gives insight into the Father’s heart as to why these boundaries are in place. This new “Sheriff” that I’m speaking of doesn’t force my obedience to His Will and His Way. He does hold the keys to eternal life. I can have a more abundant life when I live within the design of my Maker. I also have the promise of eternal life as I live for Him and surrender my will to His will. I’m on a first-name basis with the “Sheriff” over my life. I’m thankful for His Protecton and His Presence in me.
Pressing On!
Dwayne