Is He your Pilot or Co-Pilot?

Psalm 23:3 (ESV) ~ He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Psalm 23 is all about the Good Shepherd.  Studying this passage, I’ve learned some things about sheep.  Sheep cannot be driven like cattle; they must be led.  What is the difference in God leading us verses Him just pointing the way?  Leading means He goes with us.  He watches our every step and points out the rocks that may make us stumble.  This is the importance of having that intimate relationship with Christ.  If we just have a once-a-week communication, what happens on Thursday when some huge roadblock comes our way?  Jesus asks us to allow Him to take the lead, every day.

We often hear people say, “Jesus is my co-pilot.”  Co-pilot indicates that we are taking control at times.  I think the proper way to speak of Him is, “Jesus is my captain, my pilot, or my driver.”  He knows the way.  He knows which path will lead you exactly where He wants you to go.  When we are following His lead, then He will receive the glory.  What does that mean in everyday life?  When Jesus is leading and you come across a difficult person.  Someone that makes you want to treat them exactly the way they are treating you.  In that moment, you can hear Jesus saying, “respond with love, kindness and understanding.”  If you can respond with love, then you are bringing glory to the God you profess to serve.  It also has the possibility of allowing that person to see Christ in you. 

Allowing God to take the lead isn’t easy.  We are born with an innate desire to take control and do what we want, when we want.  However, if we are serious about wanting to be who God has created us to be, then we should come to a place where we step back, let go and allow the Good Shepherd to take His rightful place in our lives.  Because He is Good, we can trust His leading and believe the path He guides us down is the one to His righteousness.