Spinning Tunnels

I’ve lived near Los Angeles for nearly twenty years, and I finally went to Universal Studios with my brother-in-law. We rode the tour bus past movie sets and props. Then the bus stopped in a narrow tunnel. And, because this was Hollywood, the tunnel started turning—the whole tunnel, counterclockwise.
We glanced at each other, convinced the bus was slowly spinning. I repeatedly expected to slip or fall sideways, but the whole time I was absolutely stationary. The bus did not move. We did not move. Only the tunnel moved. It looked as if we were spinning, and we felt it, really felt it. I was astonished at the connection between what the eyes see and what the brain thinks is happening. My brain was convinced and sent panic signals to my body, all based on the optical illusion.

The Bible’s words, “We walk by faith, not by sight” took on a whole new meaning. Just like that revolving tunnel, our sight may say that the world is spinning. So panic, or be afraid, or at least get upset. These spinning tunnels may be our finances, relationships, health, work, or school.

Right now I feel as if I’m in one of these spinning tunnels, and I don’t like it. I feel unstable, discouraged, tired. Yet the Bible promises that God is with me and will meet my needs, as in, “God will supply your every need according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus,” Philippians 4:19 NET.

As long as I focus on the spinning tunnels around me, I’ll expect to slip or fall—and probably will. But, despite my feelings, when I focus on the solid ground of God’s promises more than on my fears, I will not only survive, I will prevail.

How about you?

PRAYER: Lord, You are my solid foundation in a spinning world. Keep me mindful of You, that I would not fear my circumstances.

“God is our strong refuge; he is truly our helper in times of trouble. For this reason we do not fear when the earth shakes, and the mountains tumble into the depths of the sea,” Psalm 46:1–2 NET.

Today’s devotion is by Peter Lundell, author of Prayer Power. A rising new voice on connecting with God, he is a pastor, Bible college teacher, and conference speaker. Visit him at www.PeterLundell.com for his inspirational “Connections” and free downloads of articles, parables, short stories, and book chapters.