Landmarks

By Berris Flemmings

"Remove not the ancient landmarks which thy fathers have set." (Proverbs 22:11)

The word, "landmark" is defined as, 1.) a prominent feature on land, especially one which acts as a guide in following a route or marking a boundary; 2.) an even which is of special significance in a process or period of change. From these two definitions we can say that a landmark is a reference point. Landmarks play an important role in our daily lives. Can you imagine what it would be like to travel throughout the city of Detroit without any landmarks?

Some time ago, I drove from Detroit to Dallas,Texas. I reached my destination without much trouble, but only because I kept following the directions on the map and looking for various landmarks. There were signs telling me the names of the different freeways, the speed limits, when a curve was coming up, and so on. I would not have been able to make it without those landmarks. My journey was successful only because I followed established guidelines. Can you imagine where I might have ended up if I had not followed them?
Having the experience and seeing how important landmarks are in reaching an unfamiliar destination, I can clearly see why the Bible tells us not to remove the landmarks which the fathers have set.

It's sad to see the amount of violence in the world today; children killing children, rape, stealing, and murder, just to name a few. As a child growing up, I remember the older folks talking about how terrible the sixties were and saying better must come. I can say without any reservation that worse has come and worst is in hot pursuit. Behaviors which were once condemned are now becoming the norm. People are searching for answers in all the wrong places and are coming up with all the wrong answers. The Bible tells us, "Righteousness exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

The world is in chaos because the ancient landmarks have been removed. It is more important than ever before to teach our children these guidelines; not only by telling them, but also by walking with them, pointing out the landmarks and explaining the significance of each. Proverbs 22:6 put this together beautifully, "Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." It is said that happy families make happy communities, happy communities make happy nations, happy nations make a happy world.

Let us therefore journey through this life keeping our eyes and minds focused on the Word of God, and using it as our road map as we walk the pathway of righteousness. The pathway is old, very old, but it is God's way. It was good for our forefathers and it is as good for us today as it was back then. Furthermore, it will be just as good tomorrow

You see, God has not changed His plan for salvation, it's still the same. Men have made changes and deceived many, but the Bible tells us in no uncertain terms, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." (Proverbs 14:12)

Let us draw the same conclusion as did David;
"As for God, His way is perfect; the Word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him." (Psalm 18:30)
"The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes." (Psalm 19:7-8)

Let us therefore go through this life using the Word of God as our guideline,looking always unto holiness, not only in the spiritual aspects of our lives, but in all aspects. "In all thy ways acknowledge HIm, and He shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:6)

Editor's Note: Bro. Flemmings teaches the Adult Sunday School class each month in rotation. He is on our church's ministerial staff, and is willing and able - consistently serves the Body of Christ in many capacities.