Trust in ADONAI [the LORD] with all your heart,
lean not on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6, TLV
Our Own Understanding Can Be Shaky. It was after midnight. My future mother-in-love and I were driving back from visiting my future hubby, who was in Navy boot camp outside Chicago. The day had been emotional and long, making the drive back to St. Louis arduous.
The tires droned as I tried to keep my MIL — and myself — awake. We chatted about everything, but as the droning continued and her sweet voice chattered away, my eyelids drooped. We were only an hour away. Maybe I could catch a few moments of sleep. I trusted her to get us home, until …
“I’m about to nod off, Terri. Can you take over driving?” She pulled over to the shoulder so we could exchange roles. Now I was in the driver’s seat, and she the trusting passenger.
Bad idea.
Lean not on your own understanding…
I was okay for the first fifteen minutes — fear and adrenalin kept up my heartrate and my eyes open. Then the tires continued their lullaby. How was I going to stay awake? I should have said something, but I wanted to impress and support my future MIL.
Up ahead was the ancient Jefferson Barracks Bridge. What in the world! I gripped the wheel and prayed. Not because I’m one of those who fear crossing bridges — I rather enjoy it — but this steel and concrete expanse was moving! Waving like a flag in the wind!
Now, I knew in my head that the bridge wasn’t moving. My eyes were playing games with my sleep deprivation. Still, it was freaking me out.
As I drove over the seemingly shaking and rolling JB, I kept praying. Boy, did I pray! I had to trust that He would see us home in one piece.
Lesson learned
Obviously, we made it home safe and sound as this was nearly 49 years ago. Nevertheless, it was a lesson deeply ingrained in me: my understanding is not always right. What I see is not always true.
Trusting in the LORD, leaning on Him, is the safest road to take. Even over scary, shaking bridges.
