Rev. Dr. Mike Wooton

In life, there are times we are supposed to let go, fully surrender, and give the steering wheel to God, but not every time. More frequently God asks us to “hold on,” “keep going” or “don’t give up.” Those are nice words, but what about when you are at your wits’ end? Those are times when you don’t see light at the end of the tunnel and the thought of the journey ahead overwhelms you. If that’s you, it’s time to find a new grip.

How do you Find a New Grip?

1. Think about the Destination

What awaits you when you finally make it to your destination? Likely something really good. I bet not only is there something really good, but you are also going to appreciate the journey and all it took you to arrive. Likely, you will have gained new relationships, skills, and other blessings by staying on the road.

2. Focus on Jesus and What He Endured

The Bible is pretty pointed toward the people who get whiny about enduring tough times. There is a saying my wife brought into our family. It is “Suck it up buttercup.” Her familial phrase has been used to alleviate senseless whining. Before you know it, my younger daughter started saying it to me when I was complaining about something, “Daddy, you just need to suck it up buttercup!” Ouch. There are times when we need to stop the whining and just move forward.

In the book of Hebrews, people are reminded about focusing on Jesus and what he endured. When they did that, it put their journey in proper perspective.

3. The Road Lines, Road Signs, and Guard Rails have a Purpose

Lines on the road, road signs, and guard rails are installed for a reason. They give a sense of order to drivers and help with safety. I’m sure we would all have a lot of fun and arrive at our destination more quickly without them, but I guarantee we wouldn’t be safer.

The Bible talks about God’s discipline. Often, when we hear the words “God’s discipline,” we wince. We shouldn’t. God’s discipline is seen scripturally as one way God loves us. How is it love? He is preparing us for what’s ahead. Often, we see God’s discipline as cumbersome, always slowing us down. We need to remember God’s discipline may look like a person getting in our way, a process that isn’t working for our benefit, or a personal challenge we just can’t overcome. These people and situations can actually be on our path for our benefit. Embrace God’s discipline because it is another way he is showing love for you and helping you arrive at safely to your destination.

4. Find a New Grip on the Wheel

Driving a long trip makes our bodies tired and our hands may go weak. If we allow our tiredness to stop us or just let go of the wheel there is a real danger that we won’t make it to our destination. What do you need to do? Don’t give up. Keep going. Hold on. And… Find A New Grip!

If God is saying you need to stay on this road for longer than you’d like, what can you change to make the journey more bearable? Is it time to find a new hobby that can occupy your time? Is there a skill that you need to add to your professional life? Do you need to spend more time with those you love? Or, develop new relationships? Do you need to grow in your faith? Do you need to start attending church again or for the first time? Is there something or someone in your life that is taking too much emotional energy from you? Rethink the relationship.

The Bible says in Hebrews, “Take a new grip with your tired hands…” It’s not time to give up, or surrender. The destination is still ahead. The promised blessing is waiting for you. The purpose of your long journey will be discovered. So, find a new grip on that steering wheel and enjoy the ride.