Dangerous Shortcuts

Also it is not good for a person to be without knowledge, and he who hurries with his feet [acting impulsively and proceeding without caution or analyzing the consequences] sins (misses the mark).

Proverbs 19:2 amp

We all experience the ups and downs of life. For some events, we just ride the roller coaster. We are able to navigate the path to some sense of relief or normalcy, adapting easily to whatever comes our way. In the end, we recover quickly and proceed with life. For other life events, the ups and downs of life can be disruptive. This can be in the form of a loss, grief, sadness, and even anger. We ride it out, sometimes reluctantly, but we can admit that we just want to get to the end no matter what it takes.

While it might be tempting to avoid negative experiences or to quickly move through the unpleasant emotions, doing so can lead to more danger than good. Quick fixes might get us from point A to point B or provide a quick reprieve from what ails us. After a while, we might feel better. But if we never get to the root of what could be causing the disruptions or what is causing the negative feelings, we are only addressing symptoms.

When it comes to living our best life, we want to take the best route, which might mean a longer road. It is not enough to scratch the surface and address warning signs. We must be willing to dive deep into areas we may have ignored or forgotten about. To experience healing, we must be willing to consider the road that brought us to this point.

Taking a shortcut might seem like a good idea, but it is not always the best strategy. Similarly, following Christ might include traveling roads and taking detours that are not pleasant in the moment but are better for us in the long run.

You always reap what you sow; there is no shortcut.

Stephen Covey

You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.

Maya Angelou

It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.

Albert Einstein

For Further Reflection

Psalm 32:8; Psalm 37:7; James 1:4

Today’s Prayer

Father, I am tired, and I just want relief. I am tempted to take shortcuts, but I know that’s not the best strategy. Please help me to stay the course. Amen.