Recently while vacationing out of state, we rented a vehicle to carry us to multiple vacation sites. Not knowing the area, we brought a GPS with us. The traffic was terrible, and even with the GPS we missed several turns. At times we knew where to turn, but traffic hindered us from getting to the correct lane.
When we missed a turn the GPS would say, “Recalculating.” This happened so often it became a joke. What a relief to hear it say, “Arriving at destination on left…” I can’t imagine the difficulty trying to get around that city without a GPS.
That experience reminded me of what we often do in life. Some of us think we have a pretty good sense of direction and can do life on our own. We think we know how to realize our goals, but we often lose our way. We get off track and make more poor decisions, leading to more frustration and getting even more off track.
Is your life, your family, your career off track? Is it the time for you to invest in “recalculating?” As the GPS is in traveling, the Bible is a source from which you can find needed direction in life. The GPS that is disconnected has no value, and you will never know the value of the Bible until you connect with it. Helpful direction for life is contained in the Bible; recalculate your life by its teaching. “The Lord says, ‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you’.” (Psalm 32:8 NLT)
Instructions for life are available. God speaks through his Word; please don’t fail to listen. He wishes to guide you “along the best pathway ...” and promises to “advise you” through life’s journey. God will help with your relationships, your career, your finances and through your personal life. He will “watch over you” through all of life, and give perfect rest with Him at the end of life’s journey.
If you’re feeling a little lost in some areas, if the turns you take keep leading you where you don't want to be, it is time to stop, recalculate and open your heart to his voice. Let his word direct you to the next step. He will guide you along “the best pathway.”
This is a great time to stop and “recalculate.”
The Rev. Don Sauls is Pastoral Care coordinator at Lenoir Memorial Hospital. Reach him at DSauls@lenoir.org.