When we are 15 years old, we dream about driving in the next few years. It is a process to get a learner’s permit, do driving training and get a driver’s license. When we finally get behind the wheel, we celebrate! As soon as we get the keys, we want to keep them and we don’t want to let go.
However, if we take a long road trip on vacation or cross-country, then we’re glad to have a partner to take turns driving. Sometimes we are willing to pull over and hand over the wheel when we are sleepy or tired.
Life is like a long road trip and the Lord is far better at directions than any map or GPS. God’s supernatural wisdom won’t be affected by cloudy conditions. He always speaks clearly and correctly. Therefore, we do best when we listen to Jesus and let Him drive. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Though Paul was smart and strong, he didn’t trust himself to always do right unless the Lord guided him. He sought to allow Jesus to live through him. “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).
Even though we may think our way is going to work, we need to listen to the Holy Spirit as we live each day. If we ignore God’s wisdom, then we sin and often regret our words and actions. “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:30-32).
— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia
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