A most unusual life compass

"Truth is the torch that gleams through the fog without dispelling it." Claude Adrien Helvetius

It came out of nowhere. One second it was clear and the next second I was enveloped in fog as thick as a hearty stoup. It was so bad that I could barely see three feet before me. A car happened to be in front of me so I accelerated just enough to stay close and follow. They didn't seem as intimidated as I by the thick fog. I followed for a few minutes but their speed was making me feel uneasy so I backed off. The fog closed in around me. I started to panic. What should I do? Should I pull over and wait for it to clear? That could be hours! Another car came up from behind and passed me, going at a speed I thought was stupid considering the intensity of the fog. I spotted the white line to my right and was reminded that in driver's ed all those years ago we were told that when in doubt follow the white line. Right on top of this practical reminder I considered that my tendency to follow others who may or may not be overly confident could result in a huge mess.

And then it all became clear in my heart.

In the past I have followed others who were more confident navigating the unknown. And even though they were going at a speed that made me uneasy I followed because I had forgotten about the white line. God was using this night as a reminder that he is the white line in my life and if I follow him I will get to my destination safely. Following others is never a guarantee I will arrive safely. I may crash before the destination, all the while the white line is right there as my compass. "Because of your great compassion you did not abandon them in the desert. By day the pillar of cloud did not cease to guide them on their path, nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take." (Nehemiah 9:19 NIV)

So take a deep breath, Beth, and look at the white line. Follow it.

My heart was beating hard, my hands were clammy, my stomach churning. I focused on the white line, my hands gripping the steering wheel. I leaned forward and continued. Other cars passed me at breakneck speeds, but I ignored them and kept my eyes on the white line. God's revelation to me echoing over and over in my head. The truth of it being driven home as my heart and mind reviewed all the crash and burns I have experienced because I had taken my eyes off the white line. I followed that white line all the way to my neighborhood and pulled into the garage with relief. I sat there for a minute before going in.

Okay, Lord I got that lesson loud and clear. I really get it. No matter what I do or what I am called upon to do I gotta keep my eyes fixed on him.