Right Lane Driving

I commute to work for forty-five minutes four times a week. On most days I drive in the left lane, the fast lane, passing cars in the right lane. Driving in the left lane gives me a sense of control and makes me feel as if I am overcoming setbacks such as a poor night’s sleep, getting away late, or a heavy workload.

Driving in the left lane also gives me an air of superiority over drivers in the right lane. Perhaps you too have looked in your rearview mirror with smug appreciation that others are “eating your dust”.

But recently I chose to drive in the right lane. On that day I was tired. Frazzled. Empty. I needed a place where I could let the traffic take me in its flow rather than fight others. And strangely, I felt free. I felt free from the game of left-lane competition. Free from the need to achieve so I could feel good about myself.

I think a similar experience happens when we quit trying to jump higher in our spiritual walk and simply rest in God’s grace and mercy. I think so because left-lane spirituality is strewn with “shoulds”. I should pray more, read my Bible more, share my faith more. And when I do, I feel superior to others. Left lane spirituality is about me.

However, right-lane spirituality rests in God’s goodness and sufficiency. Has not God already told us that we are not condemned (Romans 8:1-2), been forgiven of all our sins (Colossians 1:14), are inseparable from his love (Romans 8:35-39),and are established, anointed and sealed by him (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)?

Resting in these truths make the way for right-lane driving. As Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11: 29-30).

I am driving in the right lane more. Will you join me?

Dear God, help me relax in your grace and sufficiency so that I do not make life in you a competition with others. Thank you for your love, acceptance, and for the Spirit’s empowerment so I may enjoy your easy yoke. You have provided us with so much; let us abide in you and know your peace. Amen.

Throughout This Day: Whenever you fall into the “should” lane, veer back into “rest” mode by focussing on all God gives you by grace, through faith.