Preparing a race car and preparing for things we face in life share a lot of parallels. We need the right tools to meet the challenges that lie ahead. Having the tools and knowing how to use them can make a difference between success and failure. Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Race teams don’t show up to the track with just a car and a driver. So, we need tools to get the job done. Some tools we hope we won’t have to use. Others are staples and we can’t get onto the track without them. Some of our tools are worn down but still get the job done.
Without the right tools, things can come to a halt quickly. Hand tightening lugs won’t last long. Lifting a car without a jack is nearly impossible. How about trying to determine stagger without a tape measure? Each of these tools plays an essential role in the success of a car on the track.
What about our day-to-day lives? What tools do we need to get through both the good and bad times in our lives? God’s a great crew chief, and he’s given us all the tools we need to win.
God equips us with His word. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 ESV
The Apostle Paul writes: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,” 2 Timothy 3:16 ESV
We change when we seek God out through his Word, study it, and allow it to penetrate our hearts. We become new creations. Things that bothered us before may seem unimportant now. Things we once valued may seem worthless. Our hearts soften as the Holy Spirit works in us to make us more Christ-like.
While waiting for a qualifying session, a driver was recently frustrated that his crew didn’t bring out stagger boards, tape measure, or even an air compressor. Fortunately for him, the teams around him pitched in and helped. However, knowing we need tools ahead of time isn’t enough; there needs to be action.
God’s word can prepare us for unexpected times of difficultly. God doesn’t promise us that life will be easy. God says that things will be hard at times. When we understand that God is with us and loves us and that the troubles of this life are temporary, our ability to handle adversity shifts. We might even avoid some trials if we’re prepared, and others may only be minor setbacks.
Paul talks in Ephesians about this preparedness. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:10-11 ESV
One powerful thing God’s word can do for us is to help us help others. When a team hits a track for the first time, they may have no idea what to expect. I’ve seen teams with experience help those without it get rolling. Usually, you see the same thing reciprocated back somewhere down the road. Life often works the same way. When you have walked down a difficult road and see someone else about to do the same, it gives us a chance to share our experiences on what worked and didn’t work, what to expect, and what to watch out for. You can share with them the tools God gave you to get through that time. When we turn to the all-powerful and all-knowing God, we gain the ability to do for others just some of what God has done for us.
“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV
God should be glorified in our actions. He’s already given us the tools to do great things for Him.
“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 ESV
The question that remains for us is will we use what He has given us? Will His Bible, His tool sit idle in the toolbox? Do we expect someone else to bring the tools and do the work, or are we willing to answer what God has called us to do and serve and honor Him? Until next time, remember God loves you and Jesus is Lord over Auto Racing! Remember that your prayerful support and donations help us continue this ministry. Thank You.
