Directions for Life

Have you taken directions from someone and totally misunderstood what they said? This happened to me the other day. A good friend gave me detailed directions to his new home over the phone. It was in an area that I was somewhat familiar with, but not totally. I was anxious to see his new house, so off I went. I drove slowly reading every sign, but somehow I missed something. I was totally bewildered. You might even say I was lost. That is hard to admit. I had the directions written out on paper. What in the world went wrong? I drove around and around again, trying to see where I made the mistake. Finally, in desperation, I swallowed my pride and called my friend. He laughed and teased me a bit but was happy to repeat the directions.

I couldn't believe it. I thought he said go right at the light, but what he really said was go right through (not at) the light. What a huge difference that one word made in finding my way.

God showed me a lesson in my dilemma. Do I listen to His word correctly? Do I go off with missed information and find myself hopelessly lost? Do I think because the area is somewhat familiar I don't need to listen attentively? Sometimes I get my directions messed up. Thankfully, I can call and get the correct directions from God when I am lost. He, like my friend, is eager and happy to give me the correct information.

Reading the Bible, praying, and then listening to what it really says can keep me going in the right direction. Isn't that wonderful to know that we don't have to keep wandering around hopelessly?

Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord; point out the right road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you (Psalms 25:4, 5 New Living Translation).

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do (2 Timothy 3:16, 17 New Living Translation).

The next time anyone gives me directions, I will ask them to repeat them. If I'm reading God's word, I can reread the directions as well. I can spend more time listening instead of talking when I am praying. Sometimes I need to hear things over and over again to get it right. It is not a good feeling to be wandering aimlessly around with not a clue to where you went wrong. One word might make all the difference. It did for me.