Baseball had just lost one of its greatest personalities with the passing of Yogi Berra when I originally wrote this post in 2015. In addition to being a great player, manager, and war veteran, Berra was well-known for his Yogi-isms. Upon first hearing many, they sound offbeat and/or inane, only to prove quite truthful when further considered.
Some of my favorite Yogi-isms include “If you don’t know where you’re going you might end up someplace else,” and “Nobody goes there anymore because it’s too crowded.” Another one that more often than not perplexes people is
“When you get to the fork in the road, take it.”
I love this one for many reasons I’ll detail. Before I do, though, I have to mention an explanation shared by someone being interviewed on ESPN Radio (I think it was Paul O’Neill). According to the story, Yogi once lived on a cul-de-sac or road that went in a full circle, so whether you turned left or right, when you got to the fork, if you took it, you’d make it to his house. So he told people, when you come to a fork in the road, take it.
How Should We Respond to Forks in our Roads?
A fork in the road is not an easy proposition because it forces a decision. We first decide if we are to progress onward, and if so, which path to take. Surely, in pursuing life with progress in mind, going backward is not an appealing option. Though it may be necessary at times in life and it may prove to be the best of all available options.
When you come to a fork in the road, take it. Photo Credit: Petr Magera via Compfight cc
Supposing we are forward-focused and therefore have that as an “easy” decision, another decision looms. Which way forward do we go?
Sometimes, if we have the destination in view, the path that is most likely to get us there is the one we will choose. Other times, all options might prove to be challenging, difficult, or seem impossible. In those moments, we freeze. We stop dead in our tracks and wait. That can sometimes be good.
It can also be bad.
Very bad.
Why Not Taking the Fork in the Road Can be Bad
In Yogi’s case, no matter which direction that’s chosen, you achive the desired end result. Our decisions in life usually don’t include that wonderful luxury. The unknown, or perhaps the fear of what we think we know, all too often keeps us from taking action. We become sails without wind. We lay in waiting, and may not ever take another step forward.
That’s why it is important for us to remember that the Lord is our shepherd who lovingly cares for us. Even when we journey down difficult paths, he never leaves us. He guides us and rights our direction (Psalm 23:2-4). For that reason, paralyzing fear exhibits a general lack of trusting God.
Ironically, in our trust of God – our faithfulness – He makes our paths known and prepares us throughout life for each and every moment ahead (Matthew 3:3). He ultimately guides us to our final destinations (Proverbs 3:6). And even though we don’t always follow the script, God is always directing our lives.
Even though we don't always follow the script, God is always directing our lives. Click To TweetKnowing we’re on the Right Path of the Fork
Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.
– Psalm 25:4-5
As a Christ-follower, we need and should actively desire to be taught the ways of God. We’re in constant preparation, yes. But we also must seek understanding as His revelations are gracefully offered. If we sincerely desire to know, we may be sure that God will direct us along our paths, at every fork in the road.
Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
– Hebrews 12:13
Perseverance is a mark of every dedicated Christian. There will be forks on the road. There will be decisions. And some of them will be difficult. But coming to that fork and not taking action is to fall short of God’s plan for you.
Inaction is as Risky as Wrong Actions
There will be times in life when you cannot move because you’ll feel like there is no right answer. Keeping yourself stagnant in such instances is not an answer. If you are not trusting in God, seeking wisdom through understanding and spiritual development, and you are not committed to finishing the race, you might as well be a soft marshmallow toasting far too long upon a raging fire.
You can choose to move out of the fire or stay and toast a bit longer. But, at some point, you must act. Photo Credit: drp via Compfight cc
The soft and sugary mallow perching on that stick is preparing to completeness and perfection. There will be a moment when a decision must be made… a fork in the road (or on the fire, so to speak). You can choose to move out of the fire or stay and toast a bit longer.
But, at some point, you must take action.
Much like the toasted marshmallow, our race concludes only with purposeful action. It’s the difference between becoming the amazing creation God intends or resisting and getting charred amid the timers, coals, and flames.
So, when you come to a fork in the road, seek favor and wisdom. Remember your God and trust in how he has lovingly prepared you.
You’re ready to move forward at the fork in the road.
Take it.