Joey Logano is one of the top drivers in NASCAR. He won a series-high six races in 2015, the Sprint All-Star Race a few weeks ago, and his first points-race (the FireKeepers 400) over the weekend. NASCAR has implemented a rules package for certain races this year, with the goal to decrease corner speeds to allow more passing, and so far Logano has thrived.

Embracing this style of racing, Logano said, “You’re just right on that ragged edge, and that’s awesome. I don’t want to drive slow. That ain’t no fun. That’s the sport part of this. It should be a challenge. It should be on the edge. It shouldn’t be easy, and at this level, it definitely isn’t.”

As I hear Joey talk about racing, I can’t help but think about our own lives and following Jesus. How often do we “drive slow” and just live to be comfortable? Do we get nervous to step out of our comfort zone and live on the edge? Do we just want our lives to be safe and easy, and free from any sort of challenge?

This type of thinking prevents God from doing amazing things in and through us because we’re too scared to enter the passing lane. We allow fear and the desire to be secure to keep us in the slow lane…instead of thriving and living with the exciting challenges of following Jesus wherever He wants us to go!

When God chose Joshua to lead the people of Israel into the Promised Land, He said this in Joshua 1:9 (ESV): “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

As we begin a new week, let’s ask God to show us how we can live with more passion, courage, strength, and a desire to step out of comfortable situations so we experience more of Him and what He wants to do through us. Like Joey Logano, let’s say to ourselves, “I don’t want to drive slow.” I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please reveal to me the areas of my life where I’m holding back and just staying put in the slow lane. I want to follow Jesus wherever He takes me, so please give me the strength and courage to step out of my comfort zone and not fear challenges, but rather see them as fun and exciting! I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.