My GPS was off. Way off.
Apparently, numbered country roads not only confuse me but the snazzy devices we’ve all come to depend upon to get us from point A to point B, too.
I was lost.
And I don’t know about you but when I’m lost, my initial response is to panic. I find myself jumping to dramatic conclusions, assuming I won’t ever find my way out. I just know I’ll have to build a shelter like Bear Grylls and live the rest of my days off the grid. My kids will always wonder what happened to their mother. I’ll try to send smoke signals but they won’t be successful because I never watch the survival shows my husband is obsessed with and turns out, his teasing of me not being able to make-it in the wilderness will actually be true.
Of course it’s irrational. Of course it’s not based in reality. Of course it’s complete fear. Of course I don’t need to watch survival shows.
But don’t we all just get a little panicked when we’re lost? Isn’t it natural to invite fear to the party when we can’t find our way?
This morning, I was reading parts of Psalm 119 with Sarah. I’ve read this Psalm many o’ times but today, one particular verse grabbed my shoulders and shook until I could see clear.
“Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge.” – Psalm 119:54
Thankfully, God is a GPS that never gets confused. He doesn’t lose the signal and He won’t suddenly stop working.
He was and is and is to come. Still.
His truths don’t change. His promises don’t change. His love for us doesn’t change.
Lately, when I feel the selfish elbows of fear nudging it’s way into my heart, I ask myself this question:
Natalie, what are you afraid of? What does God say is true?
If we look fear in the eye and tell it we have it’s number, that we know how it works like a snaking vine through lies that cut deep, then fear shrinks back and truth grows tall.
Truths like never will I leave you, never will I forsake you. You are mine. Your very hairs and numbered – I know you better than you know yourself. You can do all things through Me who gives you strength. You’re my adopted daughter/son. I will justify, no need for revenge. Ask and you will receive. Knock and the door will be answered. I will comfort you. I will make beauty from ashes. I can do so much and you can do so little, love. We’re a perfect pair.
Tall truths that never get lost. Tall truths that pummel fear to the ground and send it whimpering back to its creator, tail between its legs. Tall truths that are of the highest-quality GPS.
Tall truths that speak life when we’re lost. And even when we’re not.
“Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.” – 1 Peter 5:8-11 (The Message)
Oh my dear friend…these words are exactly what I needed to read this morning. Thank you.