Is this thing still flying?

Circumstances should not determine our course in life.

Captain Alan Bean of the United States Navy once wrote: “Test pilots have a litmus test for evaluating problems. When something goes wrong, they ask, ‘Is this thing still flying?’ If the answer is yes, then there's no immediate danger, no need to overreact. When Apollo 12 took off, the spacecraft was hit by lightning. The entire console began to glow with orange and red trouble lights. There was a temptation to ‘Do Something!’ But the pilots asked themselves, ‘Is this thing still flying in the right direction?’ The answer was yes—it was headed for the moon. They let the lights glow as they addressed the individual problems, and watched orange and red lights blink out, one by one. That's something to think about in any pressure situation. If you’re ‘still flying’, think first, and then act.”

So many times when things go wrong, people want to jump ship. When things don’t go according to plan, many people think something must be wrong and drastic measures must take place. But that is not always true.

After being a pastor for nearly twenty-three years, I’ve noticed that when things get tough, people tend to seek change. When the economy goes down, many people move to “greener grass.” When the job slows a bit, people search for a bigger and better job. Or when things aren’t going as they planned, they take their life in their own hands and try to work things out.

As Christians, we should not allow our circumstances to determine our course in life. God is still in control and we should trust that He is looking out for us.

The worst time to make a major decision in life is during a time of difficulty. I’ve seen many people rashly make changes in their lives during a trial only to look back years later with regret. God is sovereign no matter what the economy does, how your health is, or what your finances reveal. He is in control.

Never doubt in the night what God has given you in the light. Psalm 23:4 shows us this principle, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” The Psalmist reminds us that even in the valleys, God is with us. No matter where we are or what circumstance we are in, God is in complete control.

Have you been doubting God during a difficult time? Perhaps you tried to figure your own way out of a trial. Christian, don’t allow the situations of this world to cloud your focus on Christ. When difficulties come, ask yourself, “Is God still on the throne?” Of course, the answer is yes! There is no need to worry what will happen because your Heavenly Father is in control of all. Even when circumstances in your life start showing “trouble lights,” ask yourself if God is still flying as controller of your life.

Source: DITW, January 25, 2009