While living in southwest Arkansas years back, I made a hospital visit and there is nothing out of the ord inary in doing that, except it was in Plano, Texas – Baylor Medical Center to be exact.
I had never been to this hospital before, let alone this part of the Dallas metro area. I was like a fish out of water. Not knowing where to go, I got on the internet, googled the directions to the hospital and printed them out (before smartphone, I had a flip phone). With directions in hand, I felt secure about reaching my destination and left, in a tremendous downpour of rain.
Along the way I remembered I had a couple of church members that had a condo in Dallas in the same area. I gave them a call. They were happy to help – giving directions – a different way. (It was then I learned there is more than one Baylor Medical Center in the DFW area!!)
So, I followed their directions. The directions were great and on target. Yet, as I continued in unfamiliar area, I began to question if I was going the right direction. I had the phone number to the hospital and called.
The operator connected me with a very helpful and knowledgeable young lady. I described my location and she informed me I was going the wrong direction and needed to make a 180 degree turn and proceed the other direction 6 or 8 stop lights.
Made a U-turn and proceeded the new direction – only about 6-8 miles! I then knew I was not going the right way. Once again, called the hospital, another very helpful lady turned me in the right direction, walked me through specific land marks that indicated I was going in the right direction and, if I stayed on this course, I would reach my destination shortly. I obeyed and what do you know, I made it. There was the hospital. Saddest part was I was only about two miles from the hospital when I began doubting myself and went another direction.
The point to all this? Christianity of course. Many people are looking. They have the directions but some never make it. Why?
Number one, it is a new place for them. They have never been here before. They do not recognize the scenery (church building), know the language (righteous, salvation, propitiation, etc.) or they can’t read the directions (Holy Bible, KJV).
Secondly, they doubt their progress or direction. It may be taking longer on this journey than they thought. They may be doing some of the same things they did before salvation (kind of like going in circles). Maybe thinking they passed it already or doubting the accuracy of the directions to begin with?
Finally, they may stop and ask for directions from someone who does not know. They sound like they know what is right but… They seem knowledgeable, but if you follow their directions, it will take you further away from your destination. After time, they are not getting to where they need to be and must seek new directions.
After yet another turn around, a new direction is determined and staying the course, the destination can be reached by following the first set of directions…the right and true directions.
Acts 4:12, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Somewhat Directionally Challenged, Bro. Tim
