SEASON 7, EPISODE 9, “THE IN-LAWS”

27

LONG YET RELIABLE

“If you know your way is best, then why take a shortcut?”

—CAROLINE INGALLS

Shortcuts often don’t cut it when we are working toward success. Taking the quickest route can get us into trouble. Charles Ingalls didn’t listen to his wife’s warning. He forged a short but rugged path to Sleepy Eye, resulting in a lengthy trip. His shortcut cost him time and created embarrassment and frustration.

I can relate to Pa. Shortcuts are so tempting. My biggest shortcut blunder happened when we were spending our anniversary with another couple, exploring the island of Kauai. Our hike began at the famous Ke’e Beach and finished at the Na Pali Coast. To arrive at the stunning shores of Hanakpiai, we stuck to the well-maintained trail.

After taking loads of pictures, we headed back following the same route. Every so often, a side path came into view. We assumed these paths led to a quicker route because of the countless hikers veering from the main trail. I had the grand idea of taking a shortcut. Our friends wanted to stay on the trail, but I persuaded my husband to join me. We decided to make a race out of it; the first couple back would have bragging rights.

All I can say is that we did not win, and our legs were covered with gashes from the sharp jungle plants we were forced to climb through. Consider another misguided shortcut: Abraham and Sarah grew tired of waiting for God’s promise of a son, so they came up with a timesaver. The shortcut, having an heir through their servant Hagar (Genesis 16), brought pain and resentment, not only for their family but for generations.

Taking a shortcut to a longed-for result often isn’t a good idea. To taste success, we need to stay on the longer yet reliable road. Take Caroline’s advice: if you’re headed in the right direction, you don’t need to take a shortcut.

“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do.”

MATTHEW 7:13 MSG

When did you take a quicker route that didn’t work out so well? Have you tried to take a shortcut in your relationship with God? What happened?