Upon finishing the swimming leg of the triathlon, dripping-wet
contestants race for the area known as the bicycle corral. Among the hundreds
of bicycles of different colors, sizes and builds, there is only one in the
sight of each contestant. Knowing the exact location where one’s bicycle stands
waiting saves critical seconds in this race against time. With single focus the
athlete heads towards their own, custom suited bicycle. The rider mounts and
begins this portion of the race.
The selection of one’s bicycle is extremely critical.
Some characteristics required of all racing bicycles. These bikes are
specifically designed to be ridden on paved roads and meet the requirements set
up by Union Cyclist Internationale. These requirements cover weight, design and
size of various elements of the bicycle. Ranges are set for each of these
categories. This allows for a uniformity between riders while still allowing
for the customization that makes the bike a perfect fit for each individual.
As
we continue along the Christian walk it is important to keep focus on all that God
has provided for us. The Lord has made available the power of the Holy Spirit to
guide and sustain us in all things. Scripture lists the requirements for an
obedient lifestyle. These are the general guidelines for which every Christian
must follow. Within these guidelines, just like within the bicycle corral, is a
specific purpose is set out for each individual child of God. Our Heavenly Father has equipped us each with unique abilities
that, like our bicycle, will take us down the planned road. “So we,
numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we
are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another]. Having gifts
(faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us,
let us use them:” (Romans
12:5-6a AMP) No two Christians are designed the same. We are to
use these unique God-given abilities in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Once the rider leaves the bicycle corral and is on the
road, it is critical to follow the course laid out for them. Along the planned
route there are signs and bike marshals to direct the riders. Not only must the
appropriate number of miles be covered, these must be the designated miles. We
are to follow Jesus throughout this life. Jesus is the word of God become man. “In
the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with
God, and the Word was God Himself.” (John 1:1 AMP) “And the Word (Christ) became flesh (human,
incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us;”
(John 1:14 AMP) Therefore we must
follow the word of God and its teachings.
Following
the word of God will help us avoid the wrong turns and lead us down the correct
path. Like King David, this should be
our prayer. “Make me go in the
path of Your commandments, for in them do I delight.” (Psalm 119:35 AMP) We find this path by
carefully watching for the signs in the Scriptures. “But he who looks carefully into the faultless law, the [law] of
liberty, and is faithful to it and
perseveres in looking into it, being not a heedless listener who forgets but an
active doer [who obeys], he shall be blessed in his doing (his life of
obedience).” (James 1:25 AMP)
Along with the signs God provides in the Bible, He also gives us people
to point us in the right direction. “He Himself appointed and gave men
to us] some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired
preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling
missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. His
intention was the perfecting and
the full equipping of the saints (His consecrated people), [that they should
do] the work of ministering toward building up Christ's body (the church).” (Ephesians 4:11-12 AMP) We can look to these leaders to point us in the
right direction for our lives and ministry.
We are told that, “A
man's mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure.” (Proverbs 16:9 AMP) By following Jesus through the Scripture and those He
has placed to provide direction, we can move through our daily lives fulfilling
God’s plan.
Using your unique gifts, follow the path God has planned for you. He will
guide and empower you along the way.
No comments:
Post a Comment