Did you ever think that following Jesus can be likened to driving a racecar?
Let’s consider some NASCAR terms.
Drafting occurs when two cars almost touch during a race, one directly behind the other. The lead car displaces air, creates a vacuum, and pulls the second car along. If Jesus is our lead car, we will be pulled along on the racetrack of our life.
Fuel Cells provide the gasoline supply for a racecar. A fuel cell is designed to be almost spill-proof. Our fuel is the Bible. Unlike a fuel cell, we should let the word of God spill out onto everyone it reaches. God’s word is the wellspring of our lives.
Groove is the most effective way around the racetrack. Jesus gives us the right way to live by providing a groove. If we read His word daily, speak His word as we walk along a path, write His word on our doorposts, and hide His word in our hearts, we will find the best groove for our life.
Lapped Traffic are cars that are one or more laps behind the race leader. They can be likened to a new believer – sometimes we have to slow down a bit and let them get on the same lap. Once on the same lap, they can increase their speed with the power of the Word.
Restrictor plates are used to intentionally slow down a car by reducing the flow of air and fuel to the engine, thus decreasing horsepower. Don’t let the busyness and issues of life become our restrictor plates and reduce our Jesus-power. Let Him increase our horsepower.
Marbles are those little bits of rubber from the tires that cause drivers to lose control of their racecars. In life, we must learn to tread carefully over and around the obstacles. The power of Jesus can help us avoid marbles.
Loose is a condition created when the back of the vehicle wants to run faster than the front. In life, we must learn the balance between speaking and showing off, hearing and listening, and preaching and being realistic. We cannot let our religion overtake our obedience to Christ.
The Checkered Flag is given to the winner. We must run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Then we will receive the checkered flag.
I don’t know about you, but I will give my checkered flag to Jesus, for without Him I wouldn’t have it anyway.
Curious to learn more about racing to the finish line? Check with your local Bible-believing church. They will welcome you and supply you with the fuel for life – that is, Jesus Christ.
