Friday, January 22, 2010

Stepping Stones: What is Your Instrument Panel?

Transformational Tip

During a recent Trans Atlantic flight I had the experience of flying through a violent storm; it lasted about an hour. Pilot told the passengers the storm was so large that there was no way to go around it.

I had the chance to talk with the pilot after we landed. I asked him if he felt flying through a storm was dangerous. He said; “No, but as any pilot will tell you, the danger comes in giving into the temptation to fly by your instincts vs using the instrument panel.” He went on to explain how easy it is to become disoriented if you rely on instincts (thinking the plane is going up when it’s actually going down), but thankfully the instrument panel is set to magnetic north and can be trusted every time. He said that letting the instruments guide you…even when it feels wrong…ensures safety in the storm.

We all face storms that threaten to confuse and disorient us. A call from the doctor’s office, the betrayal of a loved one or a friend…a shattered dream. Those are the times to be especially careful. When you are blinded by life’s disappointments, don’t trust your instincts. Flying by the seat of your pants in the storms of life can lead to despair, confusion, and vengeful responses that make matters worse…and this is exactly where Satan wants you to be. God wants to guide you, and His Word is packed with wisdom and insights for living. You have to trust something to guide you. So, what is your instrument panel? Go to your Bible, and trust God to guide you.

In today’s storms, make the decision to use God as your instrument panel during the storms in your life. If you are experiencing a conflict, examine what you are leaning on then compare it to the power and track record of God and His word. You definitely want to follow where His instrument panel guides you.

Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on what you use as your instrument panel.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I seemed to spend most of my life in storms…worse yet, I get disoriented easily. I turn now to You, God, to help me know what is up and what is down. You are my instrument panel and my lighthouse…teach me how to develop antennae for Your signals, then how to follow Your tracking signal. I pray in the name of the ultimate instrument panel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
Psalm 32:8
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105