Allowing others to merge onto our ‘highway’

A highway sign tells me to merge because my lane is ending. As soon as possible, I do. 

Then, where the lane ends, I see that several drivers who were behind me before I merged are stuck. I see their blinkers, but I refuse to let them in. I merged on time. I have the right to ignore them (and in a way, punish them) for waiting until the last minute to merge. They should have merged sooner – behind me. I justify my selfish attitude by believing I’m a more righteous driver. Can you relate? 

As we continue studying, bit by bit, the love chapter in 1 Corinthians 13, let’s practice this week’s challenge: “[Love] does not insist on its own way” (1 Corinthians 13:5 ESV). The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition adds “does not insist on its own rights.” 

This week, let’s ask God to help us yield our agenda and rights to His purposes. Our best model, of course, is Jesus. He never exerted His rights while living on earth, even though He had every right to do so. His death at Calvary is the best example of this.

When we put the needs of others ahead of our own, we demonstrate God’s love. Sadly, we notice people disregarding our needs and rights much quicker than we notice ourselves failing to consider theirs.

For instance, as a sales rep for a local radio station, how often do I help a coworker succeed (even another salesperson) or pray for a competitor to prosper (including another radio station)? How would it change our relationships if we saved the last piece of pie for someone else? Or graciously allowed people to express their opinions, especially when we disagree?

Playing on my opening, what would happen if we’d allow people to “merge” onto our busy schedule by offering help when needed? 

How would it change our mood on a crowded interstate if we allowed someone to merge late – and smiled while doing it? We just might be extending grace to a driver who learned his wife has cancer or to a stressed single mom who simply missed seeing the earlier merge sign.

What would it cost us to give up our “rights” just once this week? How much would we gain?

Let’s pray: 

Lord Jesus, thank You for modeling true sacrificial love. Help us live in such a way that we don’t always insist on our own way or rights. Teach us how to prioritize others’ needs, especially when we feel too busy to care. Amen.

Sheryl H. Boldt, a Franklin County resident, is the author of the blog, www.TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Connect with her at SherylHBoldt@gmail.com.