We live in such stressful times that we automatically
react negatively to traffic. In the rat race of life, we are easily irritated by driving around, even when we’re
not in any particular hurry. A change of mindset can change the way we behave
in traffic.
Years ago, I lived in Hong Kong. It is a bustling
international city; people from all over the
world are there for business opportunities. This city is always on the run.
During the time I was there, I ministered a lot in Europe and Asia. Whenever I
stepped off of the plane, even though I was not in any hurry, I’d fall into the
rat-race. I’d rush to catch the subway or the bus or the taxi. Often, even a
leisurely walk would turn into a brisk one. One day it dawned on me that I was sucked
into the hurried lifestyle.
In America, we drive everywhere. We complain about
traffic routinely. It is almost a conversation piece in the morning. On the
surface it may look innocent but if we’re not careful, stress in traffic can
take a toll on our lives. Today, let’s look at a few positive ways to turn
traffic into a productive time.
Pray in traffic. I pray more in traffic than any other time.
Prayer is talking to God just as we do with another person. It accomplishes two
things. One, I can pray for my friends – that’s you. Two, when I pray, it’s
hard to complain or have a bad attitude. Talking to God also makes me feel
safer. Of course, I pray with my eyes open and I recommend you do the same. Praying
helps me keep the focus off me and on God and others. When I’m not praying, I
listen to worship music. Instantly I feel the peaceful presence of God. It is a
great substitute from getting agitated over traffic.
Traffic helps build character. I lived in Los Angeles for
five years. You may not believe me, but I had road rage. Yep, miracles still
happen! When people cut me off, I’d speed up to get alongside the stranger and
give them my death stare. I was oblivious to the fact that gun owners in Los
Angeles practice their target shooting in traffic! When I realized that I had
an issue while driving, I made it my personal growth plan (PGP) to not allow
strangers to affect me. It took me six months to get rid of anger. Today,
traffic doesn’t bother me. I can honestly say, “I love traffic!”
Traffic makes great evangelist. It is a great place to
influence others for good. In the past, I’d not allow another vehicle to slide
in but now it’s easy. I often keep a two or three car gap in front of me. I
slow down to let other cars squeeze in front of me. Have you noticed; when
we’re courteous, others follow? It is a great way to spread joy and kindness
and make a positive deposit in others.
Traffic time can be educational. I heard that if we spend
one hour listening to CDs or podcasts every day for three years, you can become
an expert on the subject. This is really powerful because it has happened to
me. I used to listen to music or talk shows on the radio but then I got more
intentional about using my time more effectively. I downloaded free teachings
and sermons on subjects onto my iPod. Now I learn while I drive. Occasionally,
I still rock with U2!
Our roads are
treacherous. No matter what motivates you, you must find a way to keep your
cool in traffic. When we’re not at peace, we’re more prone to make mistakes.
When you’re at peace, you’re powerful. Change your confession about traffic.
Stop saying, “I hate traffic.” Here’s
the key. What we say has powerful impact on what we experience. Let’s say it with
a smile, “I love traffic!” See, it
wasn’t too hard was it? The more you say it, the more you’ll believe it. The
more you believe, the less traffic will negatively impact you.
Friend, let’s change our
attitude! You have a great life. You’re sitting in a comfortable car with your
personal space. Be thankful that you have a job to go to or return to your loved
ones at home. Be kind and considerate. You can brighten someone’s day by simply
allowing them to squeeze in front of you. Smile instead of getting sour and you
can change the atmosphere in traffic. When you spend your time praying and learning
in traffic, you’ll be the number one rat, in the rat-race of life! Sow kindness
and you’ll reap the same. I pray and declare that you’ll never complain about traffic
again. Drive safe. Drive happy. Spread a little cheer in your journey!
“When I was a
child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put
away childish things”
(I Corinthians 13:11 NLT).
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