"Directional Signals"

“Directional Signals”

During a conversation with my brother Dave on the cruise mentioned in the previous article he facetiously said he planned to open a business on Long Island devoted exclusively to repairing turn signals on vehicles since they don’t seem to work too well. While living in New Hampshire we heard a Boston news commentator’s take on this subject in which he said, “Drivers must think that using directional signals is giving vital information to the enemy.” This trend was borne out not long ago when I followed a car which made three turns to go into the hospital’s parking garage without indicating the driver’s intentions. Maybe you can identify with the frustration (and sometimes anger) this can bring, especially in heavy traffic.

I did some research on state laws regarding the use of turn signals. In 2015 (the most recent data I found) 23 states required it, 20 didn’t and in 7 it depended on various factors such as road conditions. (In Florida where we live it moved from depends to mandatory in 2018.) But it appears these statutes are seldom enforced—I’ve seen police vehicles fail to indicate their intentions—except in the case of accidents.

Why do drivers so often fail to take such a simple step? Some reasons which come to mind are lack of concentration, forgetfulness, getting into a bad habit, lack of concern for others and last second decisions to make a turn. Perhaps stricter monitoring of violations would begin to reverse this practice.

God has His directional signals to help keep us safe and on the right path in life. David shares some words of confidence God had given him: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” (Psalm 32:8, NKJV). This is one of my favorite verses which I often repeat. But how does God show us His way? I can think of several methods He uses: His Word (Psalm 119:105), the Holy Spirit (John 16:13). The discernment He places within me (Hebrews 5:14), the counsel of godly people—with me the most important one is Karen (Proverbs 15:22) and life’s circumstances (1 Chronicles 12:32). There may be more (“…{God’s} greatness no one can fathom.”—Psalm 145:3) but these have worked well for me and may for you as well.

So the next time a motorist doesn’t want to give vital information as to his or her intentions thank God that He’s provided vital information to guide your life. And taking some liberties with God’s words through His prophet: “This is the way; walk (and drive) in it.” (Isaiah 30:21).

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan