I’m on the road a lot and I give God thanks for my safety. On a weekly basis I find myself in situations where traffic on the interstate slows to a stop. The causes range from accidents and construction to fallen debris like sod, barrels, or furniture. One of the two lanes will get shut down and I can’t always see which lane to get in to navigate through the congestion quickly.
But you know what I’ve noticed? 18 wheelers that are ahead of me will always move over to the clear lane because they are either communicating with those ahead of them, or they can see the path from their higher position. Every time I follow their lead, I end up in the right lane to help me reach my destination.
“Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:41, 42 NKJV)
In Acts 2 the new believers continued in the apostles’ doctrine, or teaching. The apostles’ doctrine consisted of teachings handed to them by Jesus himself. No one could lead people to God better than the son of God himself. No one could lead the new believers in their faith better than the apostles. These were the men who had intimate communication with the leader ahead of them (Jesus). These were the men who had journied to spiritual heights with Jesus and could see the path ahead.
Professional and Personal Application
Professional Application
I’ve served in corporate and non-profit organizations and can’t count the number of times subordinates have questioned the decisions of their supervisors, managers, and leaders. Sometimes the subordinates were right but most times they were only right from their perspective. They may not have known the principles, constraints, or key indicators their leaders were bound to use in decision making. Some things just aren’t visible from a lower position just as I can’t see road obstructions in my car the way truck drivers can.
Two things: 1. If you’re the subordinate, remember the decision making process may be different from your leader’s position. Ask questions to try to understand things from the leader’s perspective rather than drawing conclusions on your own. 2. If you’re the leader communicate well to your followers to keep confusion down and morale high. Clear the lane for those behind you. Be steadfast in sharing and your team will be steadfast in their commitment to follow you.
Personal Application
No one knows how to live an abundant life like Jesus.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV)
When our lives are hindered by sins that close lanes to our blessings or struggles that block our paths to fulfillment, our life leader, Jesus, can see more from his higher position. He can help us navigate through any difficulties in the path ahead. We just need to continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine, following Jesus every step of the way.