driving in the fog

I hate it when I have to drive in the fog.  Depending on the density it can make me very nervous.  If visibility is reduced too much, I tend to just "pull over" and wait it out and pray no one crashes into the back of me!  I'm always relieved once the fog finally begins to lift.

There are times, however, when all of us find ourselves trying to "move forward" in the midst of a type of "spiritual fog."  This happens when there are issues in our life that we don't seem to be able to solve.  There are times when we want to move forward but right decision seems to escape us.  There are times when we long for discernment, but the voice of God seems silent.

What are we to do when we are "spiritually driving through the fog?"...

While there are no easy answers, there are some principles I think we can relay on:

First, slow down.  It is certainly not wise to go "full speed ahead" when our visibility limited.  In fact, if visibility becomes too poor, pulling off the road and stopping all together makes sense.  What this means spiritually is that there are times when we need to avoid making hasty decisions and possibly spend some time in "retreat." Sometimes we need to  "sit still" before God and make sure that we are paying attention to Him.

Second, turn the fog lights on.  Not every older car has them but most of the modern cars do.  These are lights that are engineered to help "shine light on your path."  I know of no better discipline of "shining light on our spiritual path" than by reading our Bible in a "contemplative" way.  By contemplative I mean - not doing an intense Bible study, but rather by meditating on the words, pondering the message, allowing God to speak through the stories, instructions, and commands.  As the Psalmist has said, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, and a light on my path." (Ps. 119:105)

Third, Pray.  I know it sounds simple but I have literally "prayed my way" over winding mountain roads.  I've prayed my way through hectic, rush-hour traffic.  I've prayed my way over snowy and slick streets; and I've prayed my way through thick and dense fog.  Most recently I prayed my way through a cancer diagnosis and a semi-major surgery.  In our personal life, when our way is not clear, prayer is certainly a discipline we need to exercise..

Finally, allow the voice of trusted friends to guide you.  We seldom travel life totally alone.  While in the car the "extra eyes" of my wife, children, or friends can be a great help in letting me know someone is coming up behind me, or that they see the red lights of a slowing car ahead; or giving me the assurance (from the map) that we are only two miles from our turn off and destination.  When we are in a spiritual fog, often those who love us and know us best can help us "get our bearings" and better navigate to a clearer day.

So when you find yourself "driving in a fog," don't despair - God can show us the safe and sure way.