Much of life is lived on autopilot. And perhaps, in some seasons, survival mode is more accurate. It’s a good practice then to occasionally look up and reorientate ourselves with our current surroundings. This allows us to locate ourselves once again in God’s kingdom and the story he is telling.
To be sure, many days all we can do is focus on what’s next at hand. And there’s wisdom here when it keeps us from worrying about things we cannot control. But we’re in danger of drifting off course when we always keep our heads down and never look up.
For instance, we go to work, pay the bills, attend church, and enjoy regular date nights, but all without much thought or reflection. Years pass and we start to feel life has become meaningless – just going through the motions. But the problem is not what we’re doing per se, but our lack of orientation.
Whether walking around a new mall or driving to a new city, it’s helpful to occasionally check the map to pinpoint our current location. This allows us to determine if we’re still on track to get to wherever we’re going. And this is a sound practice throughout our life and relationships.
For example, it’s stepping back to consider our current work and if we’re still moving toward God’s calling for our life. Likewise, how are we doing relationally? Are our relationships on track to fulfill God’s purposes?
To be fair, these might not be daily considerations. There’s a time to look at the map and a time to simply drive the next mile. But wisdom reminds us not to go too long without looking at the map.
In the end, focus on the tasks for each day without forgetting to occasionally look up to reorientate yourself in God’s story. This keeps your life and relationships on track towards God’s best and not merely drifting meaninglessly.
