I recently read a story about a couple in Oregon who were traveling back home from an out of town trip. They were using their GPS as they navigated an unfamiliar route. Nearing a small town, their GPS instructed them to turn off onto a little used forest road. This was a result of their GPS being programmed to take the “shortest route” as opposed to the “quickest route.” As they continued down roads that were covered deeper and deeper with snow, they became stuck – got unstuck – and then continued on down the same path. Eventually, they were completely stuck, could not get a cell phone signal, and huddled in their car for three days until a sheriff’s deputy rescued them.
You may have heard stories of this nature that are the result of individuals blindly trusting their technological device in spite the signs that should have led to different choices. Sometimes the consequences are tragic.
Relationships can sometimes follow a similar course. Communication breaks down, conflict arises, harsh words are exchanged, loving actions are sidelined – and we find ourselves heading down a dangerous forest road. While our situation demands that we change course – we often continue doing what we have always done. We continue to take our friend’s weak advice that has rarely proved beneficial. We listen to our culture’s pop influence even as the wheels continue to come off the relationship.
It is during these times that it is helpful to be aware of just how easy it is to be situationally blind and headed for a cliff. This is when it is good to stop – survey our relational surroundings and do something different. Perhaps that entails consulting with a trusted friend who has a rock solid relationship with their relational feet firmly planted, or taking a closer look at instructions and encouragement in God’s Word. Whatever is needed – be carefully not to risk it all by heading down a snow covered dirt road. What do you need to consider differently in your significant relationship today?