Road Signs for Living - Intro

     Jeremiah 31:21 “Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take.” NIV 

      Several years ago I had an unexpected encounter with God. One of the results of that encounter was a five-year project culminating in a seven-week Bible study which draws attention to the road signs God places in our lives.  Today I will share the introduction to Road Signs for Living  and hope that you too will be encouraged to see God in everyday objects as you listen for His voice and hear Him speak to your heart.

INTRODUCTION

            As a commuter, I found that traveling the same road day after day, week after week, month after month, lulled me into a mechanical routine. Like all routines, I performed the motions necessary to get me to my destination. Although my eyes were open and I seemed to be functioning, I was not really paying attention. Isn’t that just like life? We can go through a thousand routines by habit, ritual, or tradition – not really living life, simply existing.

            One spring morning as I drove from the beautiful and peaceful Texas Hill Country toward my job in the hustle and bustle of San Antonio, I began to be more fully aware of road signs. “Slow Curve,” “Guardrail Damage Ahead,” “Highway Intersection 1000 Feet”. When I passed a sign that read “Observe Warning Signs – State Law” I heard the voice of my Father God whisper to my spirit, “Pay attention to the road signs”.

             Instantly, I began to notice the triangular, octagonal, rectangular and circular signs of red, white, blue, yellow and green. Informational signs like “City Limits” and “Interstate Highway 2 Miles” flashed in front of me. Instructional signs included “Speed Limit 55 MPH” and “One Way” as warning signs read “Caution” and “Do Not Enter”.  Each sign announced a purpose; to ensure the safety of those traveling on that particular stretch of road.

            As I drove, I was momentarily startled to see the flashing blue lights of a police car in my rear view mirror. The car sped past me, apparently on the way to remind another driver of the consequences of not obeying the road signs. Even though I had broken no laws, knowing that someone else was facing reprimand made me more cautious during the rest of my morning commute.

             During the remainder of my drive, God showed me that He also gives us road signs— road signs for living, and obedience to those signs gives us purpose, direction and protection. As with signs along the streets and highways, God gives informational, instructional, and warning signs to guide us on our journey through life.

             I began to question – What purposes do God’s signs serve? Why does He place them along our way? Are God’s signs simply suggestions? Are they commands? Do we face consequences when we do not heed them?

            Those questions led me on a search for God’s road signs; a search that resulted in this study. Our world is ever changing, but God is never changing, and He will reveal Himself to you as you pay attention to His Road Signs for Living.