Stepping Stones: What is Your Instrument Panel?

Transformational Thought

During a recent transatlantic flight I had the experience of flying through a violent storm. It lasted about an hour. The pilot told us passengers the storm was so large that there was no way to go around it. We would need to continue to fly through it. He encouraged us to hang in there and assured us we were in no danger.

I had a chance to talk with the pilot after we landed. I asked him if he felt flying through the storm was dangerous. He said, “No, but as any pilot will tell you, the danger comes in giving in to the temptation to fly by your instincts instead of 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. Thankfully, the instrument panel is set to magnetic north and can be trusted every time, no matter how bad the conditions might be. He said that letting the instruments guide you…even when it feels wrong…ensures safety in the storm.

We all face storms that not just threaten, but actually confuse and disorient us. Experiencing an ominous call from the doctor’s office, the betrayal of a loved one or friend, a financial setback, an unexpected obstacle in your day, or a shattered dream is a time to be especially careful. When you are blinded by life’s disappointments, don’t trust your instincts. Flying by the seat of your pants during life’s storms 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 in something to guide you. So, what is your instrument panel? Go to your Bible and trust God. Trust His promises and character. Let His instructions guide you through the storms of life.

In today’s storms, make the decision to use God as your instrument panel. If you are experiencing a conflict, examine what you are leaning on to guide and interpret the situation. 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. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I seem 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, and 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