Yesterday, before we pulled out of the school parking lot, I told the kids I was the “Seatbelt Nazi”.  On the trip to the water park and back we made stops for gas, snacks and to use the bathroom.   Each time before we made a move to get back onto the road I made sure everyone was buckled up.  My mind had a hard time comprehending  how quickly they seemed to “forget” that they needed to buckle up before we went anywhere.

I have a couple of reasons the kids need to buckle up before we drive anywhere.

1.  It is the law (and as I told the kids, “I am here to enforce it”).

2.  Should we be involved in an accident and should any of the kids who were not buckled up die in the accident then I don’t like the consequences of going to jail for manslaughter.

After we dropped the kids off at school and went home I read the news online.  I noticed a story of an SUV that had rolled and five children died because they had not been buckled up.  It seemed a timely story after my consistent reminders to “Buckle Up” before we went anywhere.

Now I’m sure the kids thought I was just a crabby old lady, when in reality I just had their best interest, (and mine!) in mind.  There are times when I know that God has my best interests in mind.  Times when He says the following phrases: “Love your neighbor as yourself” and “Forgive him” not just once or seven times, but seventy times seven.  I don’t always like what God says, and I sure would like to think I can pick and choose the best way to put into practice what He says.  But, God didn’t say “Love thy neighbor” and then list all the exceptions to the rule.  He didn’t say, “Forgive him” and then list all the times I wouldn’t have to.  I don’t always like it, but I will be happier if I choose to live the way God tells me to.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5-6