There’s something about maintaining the speed limit that feels right to me. When I’m pushed to drive faster by a tailgater, I feel out of control. Maybe that’s because I am. Obeying the speed limit allows others to exit their driveways in a safe manner. It allows cars to make it through an intersection without having to slam on their brakes. This would be unlikely if I was traveling at the rate of speed I’m constantly being pushed to go. My gut feeling is, doing what is right, even with something like obeying the speed limit, is beneficial for not just me, but others around me.
In days past, tailgaters made me nervous, made my blood pressure rise, and my imagination run wild with the “what ifs?”
Most days I travel the 25 mph posted limit but when pushed, I’ll hold firm at 30. Traveling 5 mph over the limit can’t qualify me as a strict rule-follower. So, what gives? Why don’t I speed up to appease the tailgaters? One reason is the ticket factor. Tucked in a backstretch of these two-lane roads are hiding spots that, on any random day, have a parked patrol car. You’ll never see it until it’s too late. I know. I travel this three-mile stretch four times a day. However, even if the threat of a ticket wasn’t real, I’m not so sure I’d budge over 30.
I understand some of the reasons for their hurriedness. I know what it’s like to punch a clock and about facing strict sanctions for tardiness. I also know what it’s like to have emergencies with children or elderly parents. I know about the hundreds of reasons people are in a hurry.
But maintaining order can be a freeing feeling. I’m reminded that as a follower of Jesus Christ, I’m called to be set apart, to love my neighbor (respecting their roads qualifies), and to do what is right. Maintaining God’s designed order is exactly how I feel when I’m living my life by applying Biblical principles. Not giving in to the pressures to hurry through life pays off each day. My daily morning devotions set the theme and pace for my day: a solid foundational promise from God or a greater realization of who I am in Him puts great joy in my heart.
As I studied the book of Isaiah this past year, I attached God’s promises to my steering wheel and dashboard. At first it was just a few, but the further into the lesson I went, the more my dashboard filled. Each day while in transit, I focused on memorizing scripture from Isaiah. Scriptures like:
“He gives power to the faint; and to them that have no might,
He increases strength.” 40:29
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” 41:10
“For I am the Lord your God who take hold of your right hand and says to you,
Do not fear. I will help you.” 41:13
During the first week of memorizing scripture, my focus overwhelmingly changed. I took more notice in God’s handiwork in the clouds, the brilliance of the sky, the trees, and flowers. Week two brought more welcomed change. My concern was only for what was in front of me.
By arming myself with meditation on the promises from Isaiah, I was able to drive with joy and peace in my heart. Every day, I could feel the peace of God, guarding my heart and mind. Memorizing scripture while driving was like adding a turbo boost to my morning devotion while slowing down the anxious feelings I used to experience while paying attention to tailgaters on the road
Our Gracious God offers us unlimited help. I urge you to seek him out in the anxious places of your life. Whether you are a new or seasoned believer, only He will provide you with a peace and strength that is found nowhere else.