The Map

2 Timothy 1:7 NIV

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

Picture this: you are back in your childhood, standing alone in the middle of a huge labyrinth without a map.  People come and go, pass you by, and when you ask for directions it always leads to a dead end.  Literally and metaphorically speaking, slowly but surely it starts getting dark.  Fear, helplessness and hopelessness start creeping in.  That is exactly how I felt not knowing God for 27 years. 

I had a relatively privileged life, a supportive family and wonderful friends.  I received a great education, travelled a lot and never had any health issues.  Yet the darkness and uncertainty were constantly present.  Whenever I had a bad day, I would consult someone I trusted, which always led me to that same dead end and I found myself right back where I started.  Somehow, I never seemed to find the right way out without having to climb the rocks and bushes that closed in on me.  Needless to say this left a lot of scars time after time.  And as much as I still heard the suggestions from the loved ones around me, I was by myself.  27 years of the same battle over and over and over again.

Five years ago, while I was still trying to draw my own map, I entered a church in the unlikeliest of places and circumstances.  And contrary to all the directions I had received, this time I received a clear address and a map handed freely to me.  Filled with His Spirit, I finally knew my way out of the confusion and could start running back home.

As Paul clearly states, “for the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”  Living in fear and confusion is not of God, but being strengthened by His power and love will always lead us back to his loving arms.

As all of us have gone astray in life, we have all been handed a perfectly clear map to find our way back to God: no opinions, no suggestions, no emotions.  A step-by-step guide.  We are not to be ruled by fear, nor be timid.  We are to understand, exercise and radiate the overwhelming love we have been so generously given, so that the other kids stuck in the labyrinth can find their way back too.