Zero Tolerance Policy

Why then, have you disobeyed my command?  Since you have done this, I will no longer drive out the people living in your land.   (Judges 2:2-3)


   Various schools have adopted a zero tolerance policy toward drugs and guns.  This is a policy of punishing any infractions of a rule established by the school, regardless of accidental mistakes, ignorance, or extenuating circumstances.  In addition to schools, zero tolerance policies are in force in businesses and sports.

   Shootings on college campuses, drive-by shootings in neighborhoods, rampages by disgruntled employees, drug cartels, gangs in major cities, and domestic violence reveal that nothing much has changed since the 1999 Columbine massacre.  It seems we are living in the days of the Judges where it says, "...everyone did what was right in his own eyes."  (Judges 21:25)  


   Turning to the Scriptures, we find that God operated a zero tolerance policy with the children of Israel.  As Sovereign, God establishes the rules by which people are to live.  They are recorded in our rule book, the Bible.  Israel had access to these rules, yet chose to disobey and God's zero tolerance policy was put into motion.

   How does God operate during this present generation?  Is his zero tolerance policy still in effect today?  Will He punish those who break the rules?  Some, who see God only as a God of love say, "No!"  Others who believe God is also a God of wrath say, "Yes!"  How do we determine who is right and who is wrong?


    The Apostle Paul said to the Ephesians: Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey him. (Ephesians 5:6 NLT)


    What do you think?


Thought for the Day: God's zero tolerance policy is applied equally to all.