Keep your seatbelt buckled

Yesterday, I talked a little bit about airplane turbulence. I noticed that as our plane continued to bump along through the air, the flight crew kept reminding us of the briefing they had shared before we took off.

They passed through the aisles, reminding us to keep our seatbelts firmly fastened and to review the safety card they had shown at the beginning. Eventually, they sat down themselves, buckled in, and got ready for the bumpy ride.

I began to think about their instructions. If I wanted to, I could have resented them and said, “You’re trying to limit my freedom. You don’t want me to be up in the cabin when I want to walk.” I know that may seem a little extreme, but the truth is this: the flight crew’s instructions weren’t there to limit me—they were there to protect me. They knew I was safer in my seat than being up and around.

In exactly the same way, God’s Word is not about controlling you. It is there for your care and protection.

“If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land.” (Isaiah 1:19, NIV)

This is what I know: obedience can anchor me in a firm place, even when spiritual turbulence hits my life. When I choose to return to the things I know to be right and true, and I live out that obedience, my life becomes more and more secure.

So, my friend, today stay seated and buckled when God tells you to stay seated and buckled. There will come a time when you can get up and move around again, but in the meantime, we need to enjoy both God’s presence and His protection.

Never forget, my friend—you are an incredible miracle.