Reading for January 30th 

Chapter 4 - Gritty Navigational Tools for Tough Times

Focus: Bottom of Page 20 to the top of Page 21

“If we are to become the people that God would have us be as we navigate this treacherous journey through life, we must follow the charts, or we will fly over the rails and be blown off course every time.” pg. 21

As a man, I deeply relate with this story from Rev. Shane. For those of you who know me, you’re probably not surprised that I’m someone who has been guilty of “avoiding the brakes” in my life. Thankfully, time, a beautiful wife, and five kids have changed some of that. 

The reality, of course, is that the enemy wants us to fly down the hill with no regard to our safety or the safety of others. He wants us to cast aside the safety of the teachings of Jesus and instead, be tempted by this fallen world.

Friends, the fallen world we are visiting will toss more than enough challenges at us without our input. Let’s slow down, use the brakes and make our way through the twists and turns of life. Practically, this means a lot of different things. 

Patience: More than anything, a lack of patience will rush into decisions that have the potential to take us off course. 

Prayer: Start your decision making process by turning to the Lord. Allow God to speak into a situation and you will find your compass north a lot faster.
Bible Study: You don’t know what you don’t know. Allow God’s word to be your guide for life. If you don’t know what to do or where to start, read the teachings of Jesus. 

Of course, there are many other options, including fasting, silence, solitude, wise counsel, healthy communication, forgiveness, etc. But for today, make patience, prayer, and biblical study be your focus. 

Today is another opportunity for repetition. Reading and re-reading the same material will help us all grow. Like any good athlete, repetition can ingrain skill. 

https://tinyurl.com/linksforjanuary27th

Heavenly Father, we pray that we could stay on your paths of righteousness. Of course, we have a temptation to stray and look outside the safety of your teachings, but don’t allow that temptation or desire to take hold. Give us strength and courage to be obedient to your commandments each and every day. We pray this all in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.