Propulsion

We were traveling back from our 1,200 mile journey via car.  The sun began to set, and the sky became a gorgeous canvas of bright pinks, yellows, and blues.  All of us were speechless at the beauty before us.  In the midst of the colors, a jet cut across the sky, leaving its smoke trail behind him.  I was stirred to think of the parallel of the process of successful jet flight, and us reaching toward our God-destined purpose.

1. Tools are needed to create a working jet/ God gives us tools to knit together what He intends us to walk in.

2.  Mechanism:  The mechanical aspects of the jet must be in working order/ We must be a willing vessel and ready to move into position.

3.  Fuel for the tank is vital for a successful flight/ Feeding on the Word is vital for strength and stamina.

4.  The runway provides a clear and safe place to begin the journey/ Positioning ourselves for movement is crucial.

5.  Pull back on the controls moves the jet upwards/ Pulling back on our own strength creates a lift into the realm of what He can do.

6.  Lift off happens when the controls are held back and the throttle is causing the engine to roar.  Pushing the controls forward will push the jet down/ Pushing with our own strength and mind sets will position us to land back on the runway - away from altitude.  We must have a passionate heart towards His will and allow His timing to guide us.

7.  Landing gear is put in the upward and closed in position after take-off.  It is not needed until it is time to land the jet, and it will slow down the jet if it left in an outward position/ We have no need to touch down in 'self doubt' once we are up in the air.  It is time to put the landing gear away.

8.  Full force is necessary to cover the most ground/ Not walking, not running, certainly not standing - it is time to fly with wings like eagles - to rise up and soar with His will and purposes for us and those that we are to minister His love to. 

9.  Enough for the Journey: The jet is given enough gas to coordinate with a mapped course/ God shows us where to drink and dig for the fuel that will get us along our designed course for the purpose at hand.

10.  A Message from the tower will signal clear landing when the journey is complete.  The color of the lights on the runway tell the pilot of the correct altitude in descent/ God speaks when it is time to stop and rest and fuel up and position for the next journey.  He lights our path along the way.

A jet uses propulsion to catapult across the sky, just as the Lord calls us to move in Him and have our being.   Share a parallel that inspires you to reach toward your God-given purposes.