I was ready to go.
I started the car but remembered one last preparation. I typed my destination address into the GPS app on my cell phone. An hour away from my destination, I noticed traffic backing up on the freeway. I decided to take the next exit, thinking, I can’t risk getting stuck so I’ll find a parallel road. I’ll be back on the freeway in no time. “Make a U-turn now,” the female voice said immediately and repeatedly. But I was certain the shortcut around all that traffic was just ahead.
Minutes passed before I realized the GPS wasn’t correcting me anymore. I was far into an unknown rural area with no signal and no instructions. I didn’t know whether to backtrack to the freeway and sit in traffic, head in the direction of my destination and hope for a restored signal, or wait for someone to come along and help me.
I decided to keep going, hoping I would make some progress. Eventually, I heard the words I wanted to hear: “In two miles, turn left to merge onto the freeway.” As I rejoiced over hearing directions, I glanced at the clock. I had wasted forty-five minutes wandering around. I would be late. But I learned a lesson. I promised myself from then on I would listen to my GPS.
The same lesson applies as we move through life with Jesus. When our way slows, we have two choices: seek Him for advice or turn away. As we navigate our journey, He reveals the straight paths and winding drives. He gives us wisdom and discernment to know when danger is ahead.
Just like ignoring a GPS, taking our own detours takes us away from God’s path, even though He warns us to turn back. We get delayed, lost, and may even lose touch with our Savior. Not until we seek Him again are we able to walk in His will once more.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Sure, we get frustrated and weary when our path seems obstructed, but as this verse reminds us, God will work all things together for our good. Time is never wasted when are in God’s will.
Seek Jesus for directions and ask Him to map out your journey.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
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Mary gave her life to Christ at age thirteen. Now in her mid-40s, she works in healthcare and lives in Indiana with her husband of twenty-five years, Mike. They are parents of two adult children. Mary enjoys needlework, cooking, reading, and volunteering.