Taking the Hard Way Out

       So often, when I think about following where the Lord leads, I think of all the things I don't want to do that He could ask of me. And He often will direct me to do things I don't want to do.Be kind to that person who makes me crazy, be patient with people I want to scream at, listen when I'd rather talk. My nature is unlike His nature. My nature wants me to be happy and comfortable, and while He doesn't necessarily want me to be unhappy or uncomfortable, He has a much larger plan at work. He wants the whole world. He wants everyone to know and love and follow Him so we can live with Him forever. I am small scale; He is large-scale. As a result, our two agendas don't always match up. And since His plan is larger, it often involves me changing my plans, and going directions I didn't intend.

       But I think I often look at that tendency, and think, "If I want it or it sounds good to me, it must not be His plan at all." And I warp my thinking around and do what sounds the least fun. Because if it is opposite of what I would normally want, it must be His leading, right? Wrong. Once again, I took over. The whole point behind following Jesus is that He drives, not me. But I tend to grab the keys, say "scoot over, I've got this!" and go where I think He wants me to go, instead of actually listening to His voice.

       He's got great plans for me (and you)! I know He does, because He tells us so. (Jeremiah 29:11) But more than just the plans He's got in store for us, He has a great ride planned. The journey isn't easy, but He is right there with us. Think about: a life long road trip with Jesus! Great conversations, great scenery, and all in the Presence of the King. But we miss out on that when we act like we're in charge. My point is this: taking the hard way out is not always the right way to go. Just  like taking the easy way out is not the way to go. The right path is the one He directs us to: the path of Life. Like He said, He is the "Way, the Truth, and the Life." (John 14:6) That's a pretty great package if you ask me. It's not up to me to choose the easy or hard way because I want to. It's up to me to listen and follow where He leads me. Sometimes the path will be easy, and sometimes the living will be hard. But it's all worth it. And we're NEVER alone, because HE is right there with us. All we have to do is scoot over, let Him drive, and hold on tight. Because I guarantee you this: it won't be boring when you're riding with Jesus.