A few days ago my husband, son and I were traveling several hours by car to visit our daughter. To help ease the burden of one person driving the entire way, we all took turns at the wheel. When my turn came and I headed down the road, my husband suggested that I use the cruise control feature. My initial response was to simply decline and tell him that I felt more comfortable operating the car manually. But my husband, knowing me better than I know myself sometimes, knew that my answer wasn't as simple as it sounded. He told me that during the long stretches of the road it would help to have it turned on for it would keep my pace steady. I wouldn't be struggling as much and would not tire of driving as quickly. He also told me that an added bonus was that it would produce a more efficient use of the fuel. So, reluctantly I asked him for instructions on its operation. However, I was pleased to find that it was freeing to use the cruise control feature. My stress level instantly lowered as we continued down the road.

I have had my driver's license for many years now, but I have to admit that before this time I had never used the cruise control feature on any of our vehicles! Was it because of fear? Or was it something else? As I sat behind the wheel, mulling over that question, I realized that my true reason for hesitation had been because I was reluctant to give over control to something other than myself. That discovery surprised me and I began to think of other areas in my life where I have felt the need to be in total control. In every one of those places I have learned that when allowing the Lord to lead me, things have gone so much smoother. In times when my burdens were so heavy I bent under the load, it was when I submitted to God that the weight was lifted. Even during rushed times when trying to meet a deadline, it was when I relaxed and allowed God to set the pace that I felt my stress release. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30).

How many times in your life have you resisted the Lord’s guidance? For me, it has been way too many, but, I have found that when I remember to be yoked with the Lord and set my life on His cruise control everything falls perfectly into place – for God’s pace is steady and His road is straight.

Living for Him,






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6 Comments

  1. Joan, I have the same issue - I don't like to give up control. But you know, life is much easier when you give some of the things to Lord and let Him work it out in His time.

    Glad you made it back safely.

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  2. Yes, it's hard to give up control. However, we would save ourselves a lot of strife if we would give God control first.

    Another inspiring post!

    Blessings
    Joan

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  3. I read this post the day you published it and left a message. For some reason, there was an error and I never got to rewrite my comment.

    So here goes for the second time. Maybe I just needed to read your post again. :)

    I love how you used the analogy of cruise control and submitting to God's control. I for one, love to use cruise control. I tend to have a lead foot while driving and if I'm not careful I am speeding. Maybe it was the NY upbringing or maybe that's just an excuse.

    However, when it comes to submitting to God's control I struggle at times. I know His ways are best and He has my best interests at heart. But my humanness gets in the way. Another excuse, right?

    I want to let go and let God be in my driver's seat. I'm learning and growing but I'm a slow learner. I hope I can report that there continues to be less of Debbie and more of God.

    Love you,
    Debbie

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  4. I think for me the hardest area of control is with my sons. They are in their 20's now, grown up and on their own - and yet, I still seem to worry about their lives so much. However, I've been learning lately that worry really is a form of control - because I worry about things I CAN'T control, instead of trusting God.

    And yet, without God in the "driver's seat" - there is no peace!

    So, I will continue to yield to His cruise control, and learn how to rest on the road He sets for my life (and for my sons!)

    GOD BLESS!

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  5. I'm learning a lot about my "control" issues in this season. Honestly, it's breaking my heart at so many levels, but I also believe that my being in God's hands is the best place to reside.

    Let go.

    Let God.

    peace~elaine

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  6. I need to use cruse control more in my life; as I have been under great stress with our financial difficulties. I need to let God be in charge; and to trust Him more.

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