Escape Predictability and Embrace the Adventure

I just started reading a new book by Mark Batterson called Wild Goose Chase. I can already tell that it's one of those books that will be on my "must read" list that I share with others.

On page two, Batterson goes ahead and hits you over the head with a mallet with some words that may hurt your feelings. Here's what he says:

Intellectual analysis usually results in spiritual paralysis.

Ponder that for a moment. It may sting a little, but it'll wear off...eventually. Actually, I hope the sting sticks around to remind us of this deep truth.

Some of the most exasperating people are those who fit the mold of Batterson's words. They would prefer to debate than to take action. They are those who want to make sure they are absolutely certain they are correct before getting off their collective duffs.

Now, I am not advocating carelessness. In fact, I would say I am one of the most cautious people I know. But, you can be cautious and still move forward. You can tip-toe through wisdom rather than plunging into recklessness.

I believe God does expect us to wrestle with deep spiritual truths, and he wants us to meditate on scripture. And, he certainly hopes that we consult others when struggling to make important and difficult decisions.

But, at some point, the rhetoric has got to stop, the questions have to be silenced, and we have to free fall (metaphorically speaking) into God's arms, being certain that He will not only catch us, but that He will equip us for the journey. And, at the end of the day, He gives us an incredible story to share with others about His faithfulness.

It all starts with (as Batterson says) stepping out of the cage of comfortable Christianity. It means that you do more than think about things and talk about things. It means you do something.

It means, in many ways, that we go on a "wild goose chase" of sorts. It entails trading our boring, mundane lives for an exhilirating adventure in which we have no idea what's in store for us.

So, are you paralyzed by fear? Do you spend too much time thinking and questioning, and not nearly enough time doing? If so, I encourage you to pick up Batterson's book and begin to seek out the adventure God has prepared for you!