19 Feb 2026

"Jesus told him, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk!” Instantly, the man was healed! He rolled up his sleeping mat and began walking! But this miracle happened on the Sabbath, so the Jewish leaders objected. They said to the man who was cured, “You can’t work on the Sabbath! The law doesn’t allow you to carry that sleeping mat!”

But he replied, “The man who healed me told me, ‘Pick up your mat and walk.’” “Who said such a thing as that?” they demanded."

~ John 5.8-12 NLT

Law was created to serve a purpose. Understand the purpose correctly first and then apply it with care.

If someone breaks the law, understand the reason. Then heal and correct. It is not about me; it is always about God's purpose.

The "Jewish leaders objected" and became indignant: "Who said such a thing as that?" because they were selfish. They felt their authority was threatened. They did not pause to inquire what God's purpose was. Their law was their way of controlling others and, maybe, for their own benefit. Not for God.

Use the law for God, not to oppress others. Live for God.

See: Live for God