Staying On Course

One of the greatest inventions known to man is that of the satellite and GPS system.  How awesome it is to drive and have someone tell you every turn to make.  “Take a right in one half mile. Stay on Highway 66 until you reach interstate 75.”  I still don’t know how the thing works but I enjoy using mine. However, one does not have to use their gadget very long to find out it is not infallible. While most of the time they are great at giving directions, occasionally I find myself asking, “Where in the world is this thing taking me?  Although periodically deceptive, the convenience of having one far exceeds the alternative because they do help keep us on course, which I’m finding can be a challenge. This is especially true in the spiritual realm. If we are relying on the wrong instrument for guidance we can so easily be led astray. This is why we do not yield to public opinion or faulty emotional pressure. So where does one get the proper compass that will lead to the right course?  I read recently that during World War II American planes flew from British airbases to missions over Germany. Finding their way home to base was often difficult because of horrible weather conditions. Churches with tall, stately spires dotted the English landscape. On overcast days the American pilots used the churches to guide them home. As planes descended through a gray sky the churches told the pilots if they were on the right course.  When Jesus laid the foundation for the church He included those relics that would assure ongoing spiritual equilibrium; the Word of life, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the fellowship of the saints. These elements when given priority will serve as stabilizers that keep us on tract.  As we close out 2013 we are reminded of governmental disappointment, economic instability and spiritual diversion.  It is my prayer that 2014 will be a year of the return—a return to God, to the church, and to a morally strong nation.  Success will only be achieved as each individual joins in the search for Divine leadership and the quest of staying on course.