Every Driver Needs a Spotter
Everyone needs someone they can trust.
There are times when we are blinded by circumstances or deceived by lies. Such a cloud of smoke can haze our perspective and disorient our vision. In those times we need someone to trust, someone whose voice can lead us through times of uncertainty.
Here in NASCAR country we understand this kind of trust. One of the key members of any race team is the spotter. The spotter is nowhere near the actual car during a race; he/she is positioned high above the race track in order to have a birds-eye view.
With the use of in-ear technology the spotter can talk to the driver. If, at any point, a wreck occurs this spotter becomes a driver’s eyes.
With cars spinning, debris flying around, and smoke filling the air, the driver can no longer see where to go or how to avoid disaster. In those critical moments the spotter gives decisive commands and the driver just does what the spotter says.
Sometimes life can be like that race. For the most part we can see and assess our own situations, but there are times when we become disoriented and unable to clearly discern the direction we should take.
A wise person will have a few “spotters” in life – people we just trust, people who love us enough to help us get through the haze.
Paul was a spotter to the leaders and believers in Thessalonica. They were being misled by some false teachers and had become confused. So they asked their spotter to bring clarity. Paul’s voice was full of clarity and truth.
“So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.”2 Thessalonians 2:15 ESV
In the race of life a spotter can save you from disaster.
Who are your spotters? Who do you trust? Are you listening to them or just depending on your own limited perspective?
A wise person has a spotter for those moments when you are forced to “drive by faith and not by sight!”
Overcoming Regret
There’s no grief like the kind which is mingled with regret.
How did things get to a point in David’s life when his own son, Absalom, stole the hearts of the people and led a hostile rebellion to usurp the throne?
The path that leads to such dysfunction is marked by poor decisions, bitterness, pride, and secret sin.
King David’s loyal followers took to his defense, pursued the rebels, and brought swift justice, killing Absalom in the process.
It was a definitive and significant victory over a powerful enemy. But the king mourned.
“The king covered his face, and the king cried with a loud voice, “O my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son!””2 Samuel 19:4 ESV
Of all the words used to describe a person’s family dynamic, one of the most revealing is the word “complicated.”
David’s family was complicated. He was overlooked by his father, despised by his brothers, had at least one psycho-wife who tried to control him (Michal), had an adulterous affair that led to another marriage (Bathsheba), had lost a son to death, and had family drama among his kids.
When Absalom died David’s grief was not simple- it was complicated by years of regret.
I don’t want to live with regret.
I’m sure I will have things I wish I could go back and do a different way. I already have that! But that doesn’t mean I have to live with regret.
We mistakenly assume that the only way to avoid regret is to never make a mistake. Not only is that not possible – it’s not true!
So, you’ve made mistakes. Now what? How do you have a flawed life, but not have regrets?
- Admit failure as soon as you recognize it. Don’t hide it or make excuses – confess it.
- Ask forgiveness as often as you fail. Not only to God, but to people affected by your decisions.
- Move on. Stop living in the shadow of shame. Receive forgiveness from God even when other people refuse to forgive you!
- Pray everyday for God’s mercy to cover your past and His grace to empower your future.
You will make mistakes. Sometimes very big mistakes. But don’t let the enemy hold your future hostage.
Jesus died for sin. Jesus paid the price for failure. Jesus accepts people like me and you. He loves us despite our failures.
Father- today I join my faith with those reading this devotional, that the light of Jesus’ love and forgiveness will pierce the shadow of shame and regret. We break the bonds and shackles right now and receive your mercy and grace.
Forgive us, Jesus, for the sins and poor decisions we have made. We commit to a life of humility and honesty before You and others. And we receive the promise of a bright future, in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
The Power of Awareness
“And David said, “Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?””2 Samuel 9:1 ESV
Awareness of people is the first step toward making a difference in their lives.
One of the qualities I try to instill in other leaders is awareness. What was the barista’s name? Did you see that person’s countenance? Let’s hold the door for this single mom coming behind us.
You cannot minister to people you don’t see.
When David stepped into a place of widespread influence he immediately asked if there was anyone in Saul’s house to whom he could show kindness.
His eyes were open. He looked for ways to extend kindness. He was aware that he had something to offer, and he wanted to give honor to a family who was likely in fear and turmoil after King Saul’s death.
Today God will provide opportunities for you to minister to someone. Keep your eyes open- look for the opportunity and take advantage of it!
Veiled Minds, Blinded Hearts
“In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”2 Corinthians 4:4 ESV
The enemy of humanity seeks to blind people from the goodness and glory of God. People are blinded by rebellion, intellectualism, materialism, and even religion – but satan is ultimately the puppet master, pulling the strings on the veil to separate divinity from humanity.
In the Old Testament a thick, heavy curtain separated the people from the presence of God. Only the high priest had access to the Holy of Holies, and that was only once per year, on the Day of Atonement.
But when Jesus died – literally at the exact moment of His death – that veil was torn in two! From top to bottom! God removed the veil, gave access to humanity, and removed all barriers!
Satan still tries too blind individuals, veiling their minds, blinding their hearts, and separating them from the knowledge of God. But the Holy Spirit breaks through every barrier to reveal “that God exists, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him!”
If you know someone who is still blinded to the goodness and glory of God, keep praying for them and pursuing ways to minister to them. The Lord does not desire that any person perish, but that all would come to repentance and life in Jesus Christ!
Every person must make his/her own decision to follow Jesus, but your prayers and ministry can help tear the veil from their eyes and change their perspective.
Father-
Thank you for tearing the veil and giving me access to Your presence. Help me to help others see You for who You are.
Pastor Dale Jenkins 