Leading not Driving

     For as far back as I can remember and too many times to count, I’ve tilted my eyes to the heavens and implored, “Lord, I need You; please carry me.   Can’t do this alone.  I’m out of fuel and need a lift.”   Recently, while repeating this chant for the umpteenth time, I sensed the Lord chat back, “Child of Mine, I’m leading you, not driving you!!!  Do you know the difference???”

     Suddenly, the floodgates opened wide; and I fathomed a much needed enlightenment.   Our God is not a God who drives us around but, rather, a Father who leads us through.   This directly translates that our journey with God on earth, and to God in Heaven, is not meant to find us in the passenger seat lounging back, enjoying the scenery or catching a few ZZZ’s while He does the work.   Instead, through all the ups and downs, the thick and thin, the good, bad and indifferent moments of life, God leads us; and we find our way by following Him and knowing He will never abandon us on our own, if we remain HIS own.  

     God doesn’t say sit down, and I will do it all for you.   On the contrary, His very words are, “Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)  

     …with you wherever YOU GO – no doubt about it, our feet must do the marching.   However, the soles of our shoes must find direction for the souls of our beings.   Herein, lies the essence of God’s promise to led us and be with us, no matter the riptides of life we swim against or the threatening precipices our lives must surmount.    

     With my perception, now, tweaked a tad, I chuckle at my past, foggy interpretation of how God delivers me through hardships.   No longer does He don a chauffeur’s cap.   Instead, with a flashlight in one hand, He shines direction through all darkness.   His other hand grasps mine and pulls me up and forward from occasional depths of despair.   And, His booted foot stands ready to (when absolutely necessary) kick start me in the right direction!!!

     “For You are my rock and my fortress, and for Your name’s sake You lead me and guide me.”  Psalm 31:3 (ESV)