The Power of Restraint
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV)
Perish in this verse in Hebrew actually means to cast off restraint. When people have no understanding and knowledge of God and His Word, they cast off restraint. They do their own thing and live without boundaries or morals. Without the knowledge of God, people dive headlong into depravity, perversion, and wickedness.
On the other hand, the person who keeps the law, or God’s Word, is happy. When we know God and obey His Word, it brings blessings and a good life. I like how the New Living Translation renders this verse.
When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful. Proverbs 29:18 (New Living Translation, NLT)
This paints a vivid picture of those who live without the restraint of God’s ways. They run wild. They have no scruples and do whatever they want. They are reckless and harmful to themselves and others. The Word of God shows us the will of God, and it guides us in how to live. Without it, we cast off restraints and we perish. With it, we find life and joy.
Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 (Amplified Bible, AMP)
The cure for the world’s sad state today is to introduce people to God. No amount of laws and rules will keep an unrestrained people in check. Only a relationship with God, followed by teaching them the Word, will correct what is wrong with our society. Anything else is just a temporary fix.
Restraint is a powerful thing. According to Merriam-Webster.com, to restrain is to limit, restrict or keep under control. The Bible calls this self-control, which is a fruit of the Spirit. God, His Spirit, and His Word keep us under control. As we operate in restraint, good things happen. It keeps relationships peaceful. It gives us favor, and makes others view us in a positive light. Those who are not restrained look uncontrolled and undisciplined, because that is what they are. Restraint will cause us to prayerfully consider an action before we do it. This can save us embarrassment, time, and even finances. Operating in restraint is key to being successful.
When you see someone acting out and being reckless, loud, and rude in their behavior, it shows that they don’t know God. Take a look at the news or social media and the people who think nothing of stomping on the rights of others and always wanting their own way, whether right or wrong, and you can easily identify their lack of restraint. Even some who claim to be Christians behave this way, showing they don’t really know God and His Word as well as they claim.
Restraint is evidence of a living, active relationship with God and His Word. Restraint can save your life. Get in the Word, and allow the restraint of God’s Spirit to get into you. It will bring joy, and it will make a huge difference in the quality and fruitfulness of your life.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23 (New Living Translation, NLT) emphasis mine
