Since You are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of Your name lead and guide me.

~Psalm 31:3 NIV

Thunk! My granddaughter’s bowling ball dropped and inched toward the white pins. Hope turned to despair on her little face as the ball crept into the gutter. She knew where to turn. 

“Please, Daddy, put up my bumper rails,” pleaded the four-year-old. 

Of course, he complied, and the next throw yielded better results. A brilliant smile lit her face as her ball knocked over one of the pins. 

Spiritual Rails

Direct my footsteps according to Your word; let no sin rule over me.

~Psalm 119:133 NIV

Their conversation brought to my mind the times I pleaded with my heavenly Father, “Please put up my bumper rails.” I need His guidance to keep on the path and follow His lead. Like my quiet time. If I look to see what others are doing, I may feel discouraged like the little bowler. I need my Lord to guide my quiet time–not the pattern of someone else. After all, it is time between me and God. I confess my confusion and rely upon His ordering of both the time and the content. When peace settles over the situation, I know He is leading me. He has put up my bumper rails. 

Kingdom Rails

Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

~Psalm 143:10 NIV

And what about the times when I put off kingdom work to the last minute–like preparing a lesson or studying for a Bible class? My priorities are skewed. I’ve let people, a job, or entertainment usurp what the Lord has called me to do. Rushing around and not giving the Holy Spirit time to work through me or teach me shorts me and others. How can I hear Him if I don’t give Him time and attention? How can I accurately share Him with others if I’m not willing to give Him my heart and ear? 

Whatever the situation, I need the Lord to hem me in and keep me tucked in close behind Him. I need bumper rails. Only by following Him will I experience the presence and joy of the Lord.

Think of some ways you can erect bumper rails.

God, give me wisdom to best arrange my quiet time so that I don’t give You my last. My day is always better with You guiding me. Help me to stay on course each day.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: Bumper Rails: Sharon Davis: All Rights Reserved