The key to successfully navigating tough situations

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Psalm 119:105

On November 29, 1991, fierce winds from a freak dust storm triggered a massive freeway pileup along Interstate 5 near Coalinga, California. At least 17 people died and dozens more were injured as dust whipped by 40-mile-per-hour winds reduced visibility to zero.

The afternoon menace left a three-mile trail of twisted and burning vehicles all along the interstate. Some cars were even stacked on top of one another 100 yards off the side of the freeway. It wasn’t the wind that caused such a calamity. Rather, unable to see their way, dozens of motorists drove blindly ahead into one another.

Quite often, Christians are much like those unknowing drivers when it comes to dealing with difficult circumstances. They charge head-on into certain situations—resolving conflict, comforting others who are mourning, or simply giving advice—without first preparing themselves spiritually to deal with them. And unfortunately, this kind of blind driving can sometimes lead to even more hurt.

When it comes to situations like these, don’t shoot from the hip. Instead, take off your “blinders” by immersing yourself daily in God’s wisdom. When you do, you’ll find your responses to tough situations are much more loving and effective because they’re guided by God’s grace.

Prayer Challenge

Ask God to give you the spiritual acuity through His Word to navigate through life’s tough situations.

Questions for Thought

Think back on a time when someone didn’t handle a tough situation well with you. How did it make you feel?

What can you do to make sure you’re spiritually prepared to be there for others in tough times?