Many years ago, my wife and I took a trip to Chile. The idea was to tour my native country and explore new places wherever the road took us (this before smartphones). As newlyweds, this would be an excellent opportunity to make new memories.
When we arrived, we decided to plan an extensive two week trip down the coast as far south as time would allow. The idea was that we would stop and visit Chile’s vast wineries and towns along the way. However, before starting on our voyage, we began with a local vineyard.
After researching and asking for the address, my uncle gave us general directions on how to get there. We then jumped in the car and drove. After almost an hour of driving, civilization appeared to be disappearing. The city lights started to give way to vast, empty rolling hills. It seemed, the more we drove, the more likely we were going to get lost. My wife then suggested we turn back. I replied that we should continue. She saw it as dangerous; I saw it as an opportunity. Eventually, she won out because she made me doubt enough and made lots of sense.
After returning to my uncle’s home disappointed, we explained what happened. He then laughed and said the vineyard was just a couple of miles from where we turned back, right around the hill. After that day, I lovingly referred to that event and any similar one after as a “Santa Rita” moment, after the vineyard we never toured. I define a “Santa Rita” moment as losing out on an excellent opportunity for lack of courage to go a little further.
Scripture reminds us that the same thing happened to Israel when God was ready to give them the promised land. They didn’t believe despite coming so close and ended up losing out on an opportunity of a lifetime.
Daily Directive:
Answer and Journal the Following
Read:
Read and meditate on Deuteronomy 1:25-33.
Pray:
What opportunities is God giving or has given you, but you’ve fallen short of following through? Be real; be honest.
Meditate / Make It Real:
Pray and ask God to help you make the most of the opportunities he gives you. Also, determine how you will move forward without fear. Be specific.
Share / Show:
Share this with a fellow brother and have them hold you accountable.