Two hundred twelve people wedged carry on bags into the overhead storage space, bumping and jostling others in the narrow confines of the jet’s interior. Boasting tickets marked with their final destination, Kuala Lumpur, and convinced of the pilot’s knowledge and abilities, men, women, and children settled into stiff, narrow seats; anticipating the weather or thinking of family and friends they’d see again within a few hours.
Imagine their surprise when the flight attendant announced, “Welcome to Sydney (Australia). We hope you fly with Air Asia again.”
What?
On March 10th, 2015 the pilot incorrectly entered flight coordinates into the system which resulted in a “detour” of almost 7,000 miles. Ignoring “several message alerts and sounds”, the jet vaulted into the sky with its nose pointed in the wrong direction.
Eventually, the crew recognized the error. Sweating and cursing, they attempted to alter the course of the flight, but the navigation systems began to fail. Suddenly, what should have been a simple flight from Point A to Point B had become high risk.
“Requesting a return to Sydney.”                                                                                            “Negative. We have a low ceiling and thunderstorms.”
Unable to divert the flight or alter its course, the jet finally landed without incident in Melbourne.
Hopefully, none of us will ever be on such a wayward flight, but how many of us have ever felt as though we’re drifting through life just as directionless and misguided? Almost convinced our situation is unrecoverable or beyond God’s ability to make something of the mess in which we find ourselves?
Oh, the discomfort of feeling as though nothing is within our control. (Or, is this a just a personal issue?)  It’s been a process and I still struggle, but I’ve discovered comfort in living an “out-of-control” life.
I’ve slowly begun to understand that even when my plans fail to flourish, God is unsurprised. When my day or week or year takes an unexpected turn and life veers off course, He is the one who “gives light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). When I fail to heed the Father’s word or listen for His voice, He patiently redirects me (Psalm 23) and “plans my steps” (Proverbs 16:9).
Living an “out-of-control” life is all about surrendering to Him. It’s about inviting Christ to lead us in the direction He desires, listening for the warning signals the Holy Spirit prompts within, and finding joy in unexpected places while we’re on the journey.
Kualu Lumpur may never be on your itinerary, but God has a better destination in mind and He will ensure you arrive safely.
Please enjoy the pretty printable Bible verses found below if you need daily reminders that you are in His care.
Peace and grace,
Tammy
Reassurance Verses PDF
 

 
I often link up with the following: LMMLinkup, Porch Stories, Tea and Word Tuesday, Blogger Voices Network, Tea and Word Tuesdays, Worth Beyond Rubies Wednesday, Let’s Have Coffee, Soaring With Him, Purposeful Faith, Encouraging Word Wednesday, Sitting Among Friends, Imparting Grace, Destination Inspiration, Tune in Thursday, Heart Encouragement, Faith and Friends, Faith on Fire, anitaojeda, Dance with Jesushttps://www.rachelmarielee.com/  www.instaencouragements.com, Fresh Market Friday