As the last people on earth to acquire a GPS, we have a road map of Benton in the car. You would think a small town with a few main thoroughfares would be easy to navigate but even those who've lived here all their lives agree it can be challenging for newcomers to get from point A to point B without circling them a few times first. In fact, our pastor said Sunday, "Benton is the only town I know where you have to put on your blinker to go straight."
Due to one-way streets downtown we've had a good view of the courthouse from every angle. Also, Exits 116-118 are all connected with service roads strung down I-30 so you can see where you want to go on the other side of the Interstate, you just can't get there. We've learned to ask for detailed directions from people who know since the road map doesn't show one way streets, circular exits and entrances, or the quickest route to the restaurant where everyone is waiting for us.
Once upon a time I was taught the Bible is my road map and I've tried to follow its directions, at major intersections for sure, but more and more in the daily trips here and there. However, I've found my "Map" comes to life when I listen to the Designer explain it and direct me. Jesus returned to heaven to send the Holy Spirit as our GPS (God Positioning System). People who have a GPS (Global Positioning System) become quite dependent on them and sometimes can't retrace their steps on their own. I'm not sure that's always a good thing, but with the Holy Spirit it can be a daily, miraculous occurrence. If we stay tuned in to Him and follow His directions, He helps us get where God wants us to be from wherever we are and uses the most adventurous and rewarding scenic routes. It's what He came to do. The key is staying in constant personal communication with Him as we study the Map and as we travel through the day.
Lord God, creator of the heavens and the earth, why do we have such a hard time following directions or believing that Your directions are best for us? Forgive us. You just want to love us from point A to point B. You're our Instructor, our Counselor and You're qualified because You're All-Knowing God. Forgive us when we think our lives are "too complicated" for You to unravel. Breathe in us and calm us when we panic at intersections. Whisper to us which way to turn and give us the wisdom to stop, look, listen, and turn around when necessary to head in the right direction. In addition to all this, help us stop asking "Are we there yet?" and learn to love the adventures and miracles You plant along our route. Keep us alert and don't let us miss one.
In the name of Jesus, the Way and the Holy Spirit, our Counselor!
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Genesis 1:1
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