Today, we conclude our "Despicable Me" series by discussing the importance of guardrails in our lives. Guardrails, both literal and metaphorical, are essential for our safety and well-being. They protect us from danger and keep us on the right path. This concept is vividly illustrated through personal anecdotes, such as my family's vacation to Colorado Springs, where the absence of guardrails on a mountain road led us to choose a safer, albeit more expensive, option. Similarly, the mandatory use of seatbelts, once resisted, is now universally accepted as a necessary safety measure.
Our natural inclination towards selfishness, what theologians call our sin nature, makes us resistant to boundaries and limits. However, these guardrails are crucial for our spiritual, emotional, and relational health. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, written by Solomon, the wisest man to ever live, emphasizes the importance of relationships as guardrails. Solomon's wisdom teaches us that two are better than one because they can help each other succeed, keep each other warm, and stand back-to-back to conquer challenges.
In practical terms, this means we need people in our lives who can act as guardrails, helping us stay on the path God has set for us. This is why community is so vital. Whether it's through small groups, dinner clubs, or simply reaching out to single parents or individuals, we need to build relationships that provide mutual support and accountability. These relationships help us combat our natural selfish tendencies and keep our focus on Jesus and others.
