Dangers of Living Life in the Fast Lane

It is a well known fact to those who frequently use the Tampa International Airport that there are millions of ways to come and go from the airport. Even though it may seem that "all roads lead to Rome" or in this case the airport; all roads do NOT lead to home. One careless mistake can send a person clear across the Howard Franklin Bridge...

...a 10 mile (16 km) mistake!
 After twelve years of driving and hundreds of trips to the airport I recently made this mistake for the first time. Following a hectic briefing on child care for their four children, the parents waved us goodbye at the airport drop-off. As we left the airport my head began to whirl as I tried to recall the scheduled ballet lessons, sports practices, music lessons and school work. Priding myself on my multitasking skills I really thought I could find their house...WITHOUT the GPS. After all the house was only about ten minutes from the airport!

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

Lesson learned. Experience and know-how does not necessarily equate success. Forty-five minutes later we finally made it back to their home. At the time I was rather frustrated over my mistake but now looking back I find it amusing. 

But the sobering reality is this: how often does this same story ring true in my Spiritual life? 

Spiritually multitasking and relying on my instinct has frequently gotten me in trouble with outcomes far greater than a forty-five minute detour. Life in the fast lane can be a very addictive and dangerous place to be. Similar to my self confident attitude in refusing to use the GPS, too often I find myself denying God the right to lead me in the way I should go. Here are some dangers that I've falling into as recent as the last two weeks:

• Being too busy for prayer
• Seeking counsel of others before seeking God
• Aiming to please people more than pleasing God
• Allowing my emotions to drive my life
• Focusing on the trials
• Busy serving God without spending quality time WITH God

Over this past weekend God has been showing me that I can't Spiritually live life in the fast lane. This morning in my devotions He reminded me that HE wants to be the GPS (or in spiritual terms: wisdom) in my life. This may sound strange but if you think about it a GPS doesn't drive the car, it guides it. It knows where you are and directs you where you need to go. Even when you mess up, it shows you how to get back on track.

WHO SHOULD BE DIRECTING MY LIFE?

Jesus alone!

 The trials and testings in my life are warning signs for me to slow down and allow the Shepherd to take me to the place of quiet rest. As you meditate on the following passage I would encourage you to consider what it means to allow the King of kings and Lord of lords to shepherd your heart and life.

1. A psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I have everything I need
2. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 
3. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 
4. Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. 
5. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 
6. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.  (Psalm 23)