We all know the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. It’s the direct route, hence the more efficient route, and therefore, we think it generates the best result. But as I get closer to Christ, I’m beginning to think Jesus does his best work in me when I am on inefficient paths and crooked roads.
“Paul decided[to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must visit Rome.” — Acts 19:21
In Acts 19, Paul sets out for Rome and arrives at his destination nine chapters later encountering every obstacle you can imagine.
- imprisoned
- brought a boy back from the dead who had fallen out of a window
- shipwrecked
- nothing to eat nor drink
- beaten, stoned, lashed
- on trial
- battled a hurricane
- bitten by a viper
- homeless
I have a feeling that none of these circumstances were part of Paul’s plan when heading out towards Rome but they were God’s best GPS route for Paul to deepen his love of Jesus. What often looks like crooked roads, detours, and delays to us, often form the shortest journey to purposing us in faith producing a life that multiplies, glorifies, and magnifies. In our mind, the route is crooked and inefficient but thankfully Jesus is already in our tomorrows so he knows what we need today to face the challenges ahead.
- A torn ACL in your senior year effecting your scholarship
- Lost your job when you are over extended financially
- A cancer scare when you are at a low point and distant from God.
- Passport stolen in a foreign country.
Christianity is a process and not an outcome. It’s a journey and not a destination. Begin looking differently at your situation when sitting in this space– He is not out to get you, but rather, a loving God who is working a purpose in you, for you, and thru you.
Question |
How can this help you view your crooked roads & detours differently right now?