Sudden Changes

(Originally written for Bible study)

“God is kind, but he’s not soft. In kindness he takes us firmly by the hand and leads us into a radical life-change.” (Romans 2:3-4 MSG)

“In the end you get what’s coming to you—Real Life for those who work on God’s side, but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire!” (Romans 2:5-8MSG)

God is kind and firm. His way leads to a radical life-change. Our way—usually the path of least resistance—leads to calamity.

I’ve always hated roller-coasters and other amusement park rides that spin me around. Why anyone would find that sensation exhilarating is beyond me.  I come out of those rides feeling nauseated and unbalanced.

Over my life, the Lord has led me kindly, but firmly, into radical changes. It has always been uncomfortable and disorienting. It feels like I’ve just been spun around really quickly. I’m really unsteady and woozy after this, so I have to hold on to the Lord even more tightly than usual.

Lord, I don’t like to be spun around. Yet I know that what I like is not always good for me in the long run. I’m sure YOU know best. The changes YOU make to my trajectory prevent real dangers. Help me to hold on tightly to you, just as YOU hold on tightly to me.