The Single Best Driving Tip

It’s here, the time that strikes terror into the heart of even the bravest parent. We can do nothing to avoid it. It's the dream of every child and the dread of every parent- the driver's license. 

Our daughter recently passed the driver’s permit exam after working with my husband in preparation. They spent hours reviewing the information. There's so much to learn in order to successfully navigate the roads: road sign meanings, traffic laws, operational steps and what to do in an emergency. One lesson we covered is the importance of keeping her eyes on the road.

Studies show that 80% of accidents involve some form of driver distraction. They may occur as a result of the driver not reacting to changes on the road because their eyes are turned elsewhere. They simply don’t see the danger in time to avoid the crash. Others are caused by our natural tendency to steer in the direction of our eyes.  When a driver looks away,  their weight shifts slightly along with their hand pressure on the steering wheel. This change inadvertently steers the car in a direction they never intended. They leave the safe lane of travel and head directly into danger. This type of accident often results in a fatality.

The tendency for our eyes to direct our way is true no matter which vehicle we use to propel us. It’s also just as true in our spiritual walk.

In the book of Genesis we read that both Abram and Lot grew prosperous from the Lord’s blessings. The great size of their herds created complications, so they decided to separate. Lot was given the choice of any land. He chose to set his tents facing the city of Sodom. He could have kept his face towards God’s appointed land but instead he faced the sin filled world around them. Before long, its sights and sounds enticed him. Just like driving a car, Lot moved in the direction he was looking. In time, simply because of the enticement of his eyes, he moved closer and closer until eventually he moved his entire family inside the walls. With that decision came great tragedy.

Where we choose to keep our eyes will direct our spiritual walk. When we are faithful and keep them turned toward God and His word, our path is safe from destruction. But when we allow the temptations of the world to distract us, to even temporarily hold our eyes away from what is good, we invite tragedy into our home.

Message for the Journey:

To successfully navigate the way, a wise driver keeps his gaze on the road knowing that where his eyes go so, in turn, does he. To successfully navigate the roadways of life, a wise Christian will keep his eyes fully on Christ. It is only by remaining in His way that we are kept safe from harm. 

   

“Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom, but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth.” Proverbs 17:24

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