Speeding on the Narrow Road
Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Galatians 5:25
We travel the Narrow Road of life at a speed limit determined by the Holy Spirit. However, we sometimes travel at our own pace, either speeding or going below the minimum speed. If we travel in step with the Spirit we will travel at a comfortable pace, but if we speed we can easily fill ourselves with stress, leaving us tired and anxious at the end of the day.
For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God (Romans 8:4). Following the Spirit is pleasing to our Lord because it shows that we trust him and know him. Our lives are made up of decisions in thought, word, and action. To follow the Spirit we need to capture every thought and control every word and action. We do this by staying connected to the Lord through prayer and communing with him through our day.
Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve (Colossians 3:23-24). If we see ourselves as the Lord’s servants, this verse will become central to our lives, and we will remain connected to the Lord through the Spirit. We are now following the Spirit and walking with the Lord at the right speed on the Narrow Road.
The problem occurs when Satan tempts us, causing us to speed up or to slow down. Sometimes we get over-anxious and jump into serving God without praying and seeking his will. I have done this in the past and became uncomfortable in the ministry; however God is merciful and clearly let me know I was following my own desire and not his. You shall have no other gods before me (Exodus 20:3). This verse is a guide for the decisions we make; it is vital to know if something is my decision or God’s decision. When making a meaningful decision, ask the Lord to reveal if it is his will. This may take time and much prayer but he will answer your prayer through circumstances and/or other people. I often ask a mature Christian friend about the decision for his/her advice.
Travel the Narrow Road at the speed dictated by the Holy Spirit. Pray about decisions that would cause you to speed up or slow down. Be patient and seek the Lord’s guidance. Did you ever see Jesus rushing through his days?
Today follow the Spirit and travel at a comfortable, relaxing, efficient pace. Commune with the Lord and invite him for help in all your choices, and make these choices using his wisdom. Be still and relaxed inside, independent of the world around you by being closer to the Lord than you are to the world.
Let’s Pray: Lord, keep me traveling down the Narrow Road of life at the pace dictated by the Holy Spirit, and don’t let Satan cause me to speed up or slow down. Thank you, Lord for guiding me in the Holy Spirit. In Jesus name, Amen