The town where I live is about to put cameras at all traffic lights to catch those who run red lights. It got me thinking about how many people I see who take the yellow light as a signal to go faster. I also do not understand those people who do not pay attention and thus sit still after the light turns green. But that is not dangerous like the people that do not notice the light is red. I really wonder about the purpose of traffic lights some days.

Yet ... the alternative is even more frightening. Imagine letting people make their own decisions at crowded intersections. Do the biggest cars get to go first? Who decides who is next to go? So I guess I do like the idea of a system to govern our traffic, and I do my best to follow the traffic signals: when to go, when to be cautious, and when to stop.

It helps me realize that God has done much the same for me in terms of how to live my life in this world. He has given so many green lights for my life: live in community, listen to Him, talk to Him, help others, live with joy and purpose. He has even given me some red lights so that I do not wreck my life: do not covet, watch my temper, control my lust. He even has some yellow caution lights: watch how much I drink, watch my ego, be smart with the company I keep.

And every one of these is so my life will be better. Just as I am wise to pay attention to traffic lights when I am driving, I am wise to pay attention to the "life signals" given me by my Creator. If you would like to visit about God's life plan for you, write me at steve@hopeforlife.org. Or join our blog discussion at www.hopeforlife.org.

My life needs a good series of traffic lights: go, be careful, stop.

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