What Was I Thinking?

 by Macy Johnson

“Reflect on what I am saying,

for the Lord will give you insight into all this.”

(2 Timothy 2:7 NIV)

 

One of my mother’s favorite phrases was, “What were you thinking?” I remember her words when I consider a move or a big change.

 

There was a dead skunk in the middle of the highway near our street. I had avoided it for two days and pointed it out to my husband on the way to the Chinese restaurant one evening. I felt badly for our neighbor who lives near the highway and would suffer from the stench.

 

After a delicious dinner in Madison, we headed home. There was a long line - three or four cars followed close behind me as I approached our street. I didn’t want to slow the parade, and there were no approaching cars in the other lane, so I veered slightly into the other lane to turn left. I drove directly over the dead skunk! My husband chuckled at my frustration. In my rush to help others, I made a foolish choice. The stink stuck to my tires for days as a reminder to think before I act.

 

A friend recently gave me a copy of Emily P. Freeman’s book, “The Next Right Thing,” a companion for life-giving decision-making, rooted in reflection. It started me on a journey of listing things I have done, in order to select the best next thing to do. It has helped me to ponder my life’s steps and carefully plan what should come next.

 

How often do you, like me, try to rush ahead of God, only to run over something avoidable? By reflecting on my experiences, I can plan to make better decisions on and off the road.

 

I will reflect on God’s word and follow His guidance. I hope you will, too!