I often tell people that my mind is a dangerous neighborhood, so I never go in there alone. I am a master at projecting “what if” scenarios, and man I can think up some doozies. I get carried away about some many possibilities that I lose sight of remaining present in the here and now. Reality gives way to panic.
Now I am not talking about being carefree and not preparing for what lies ahead. I am one who believes in planning and being equipped to handle any situation. Where I struggle is when I give way to what might be and not allow God to guide me through the murky waters that produce panic and fear.
We can be held hostage by anxiety. “What if this happens, or what if this person responds this way?” A genuine intention of our purpose pales due to the churning of waters that should be best left alone. Keep true to the faith and the path, not matter what may or may not come. The terror of losing control is at the heart of my worry.
As I am still, and that small, calming voice inside of me takes over, I realize that I never had control in the first place. My expectation to direct my journey is what leads to the very thing of which I am most afraid. God is the one who illumines my path, not me. The neighborhood in my head becomes dangerous because I take my mind off of the guide on my journey. I must wake up and look up, but most of all give all I must put my trust in the One, who lightens the road that I travel.
My hope for today is that we remember to keep our eyes focused on God. The wilderness can be a scary place, and as such, we depend on our guide to lead us through a land that sometimes appears to threaten us and distract us from moving forward. May God continue to lead you through a time of discovery and self-examination. Enjoy the wilderness.
From a Pastor's Point of View 