My car was nine years old and had 120,000 miles on it. This particular make is known to keep going for easily 200,000 or more, but it had a few issues and, at my age, I wasn't comfortable keeping an older car. So, I started searching for a new (to me) car. Eventually, I found the perfect one, only four years old, and, due to its low mileage, still with its original 100,000-mile warranty.

This car comes with a variety of safety features that take some time getting used to. For instance, pressing a certain button enables a feature that keeps track of where my car is between the lines on the road. If I stray too close to a line on either side, it beeps. Not only that, but it actually pushes my car back into the centre of the lane! I've had the car almost three weeks, and it still startles me when the steering wheel involuntarily moves under my hand.

This button also enables a feature that somehow keeps track of whether or not I'm paying attention to my driving. If my hands are off the steering wheel too long or the car appears to be wandering, I'll hear a warning tone. It keeps track of when I last took a break and may even display a cup of coffee on the screen to let me know that it's time to stop.

These features, and others built into the car, are forcing me to drive more safely. Sometimes, I'm careless about making lane changes without signalling, especially if no one is nearby. But I've found that if I turn on my blinker each time, the steering wheel will stay under my control and I won't hear that beep. I'm also more careful about staying alert, as those beeps can be irritating.

James 1:22 – But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. (NLT)

Those safety features on my car are for my protection. So is God's Word, the Bible. It gives us warnings about dangers we may face, so that we won't disobey Him, like the Israelites, who "did whatever seemed right in their own eyes." (Judges 21:25b NLT) Through His Word, He can figuratively "take the wheel" and guide us back into the right path. He can help us heed Peter's advice:

1 Peter 5:8 – Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. (NLT)

Psalm 32:8 – The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you." (NLT)

Let's take advantage of all that is offered in God's Word and pay attention to the warnings and guidance God gives us.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your Word that gives us guidance, commands, encouragement, and comfort. Help us not only to read it, but also to do what it says. Amen.