Seven Things We Should Seek (Part 4)

Seek Things Above

I was in San Antonio for a ministry trip yesterday, trying to drum up support for our “Level-Up San Antonio” Conference on May 18th, and was headed out via a major thoroughfare, Loop 1604. There was a traffic accident ahead and cars were slowing down to almost a stop. However, as I looked in my rearview mirror, the van behind me didn’t appear to be slowing down fast enough. I pumped my brakes to send a message. You need to take your speed down! It was too late. The impact on my SUV was hard and the van behind me was hit by the truck tailing him as well. Was I okay? Were the others okay? By the grace of God I seemed to be fine, although stiff today.

I exited my vehicle. As I saw the driver of the van, who turned out to be a doctor, and three young men who drove the other large truck, I thought, How should I handle this? I realized that this accident was an opportunity to be a witness, even though I was not at fault, and a victim. I decided to seek things from above in the midst of a difficult situation. Colossians 3:1–3 says, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”

I prayed, How do you want me to encourage these people? I first told them I’d been on a ministry trip and was on my way to Austin to have dinner with my son and his fiancé. The three men from the last vehicle pointed to the crosses they were wearing, indicating they were believers. Then I said, “It’s by the grace of God none of us are injured.” They all agreed.

I could have yelled.

I could have pointed fingers.

I could have cried.

After all, I wasn’t sure my car was drivable and there was a lot of damage that needed to be repaired. But I trusted God in this situation. I sought higher ground and gave the scenario to him.

Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—;think about such things.”

I even sought patience when the police took about an hour to get to the scene. It was 90 degrees in San Antonio yesterday! But in the end, my car was deemed drivable, so I praised God for that. I said goodbye to all and exhorted the young men to stay connected to the Lord. They said, “You’re a really nice lady.” I chose to be thankful for the fact that God gave me the strength to handle the situation gracefully and that I was able to drive my car and make it to dinner with my family. On the way to Austin I also thanked the Lord that I was okay.

Are you facing a difficult situation today? Try to live on a higher plain. Ask God to help you see it from His eyes. Be his representative in the midst of conflict. Seeking things above is a discipline, but always the best choice as we try to make a difference for Christ.