Who is driving?

I came across this article while surfing some news websites tonight (please read before continuing):

http://aol.it/otFFdy

As embarrassing as it is to find out that this happened in my home state, it's just as funny and a double portion of stupid.

We read an article like that and think, "How could someone be so ridiculous?" We start to question that person's sanity, judgment, and even parenting. We cast judgment because, after all, we would never do that.

Would we?

How many times have you found yourself in a moral dilemma and you actually thought of ways to justify an unethical decision?

If you're reading this as a Christian, how many situations have come in the last week where you actually entertained (or dare I even say, acted) on your own power, knowledge, wisdom, strength, experience, ambition, will, pride, selfishness, and/or desire?

My point is this: whether it is allowing your 6-year old to back a car up because you couldn't fit in the driver's side door or gossiping about what the pastor said to you in a meeting because you felt "assaulted" and someone just had to know about it, they are both wrong. They are different actions, but equal in disobedience.

Look at Jesus' words in John 15:5 "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing."

Or even better, Matthew 13:21 "But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word."

When you don't submit yourself to authority, you make weak decisions that end up in pain. When you refuse to allow God to sit in the driver's seat and steer you through life, it results in head-on collisions and ultimately, death.

So, who is driving? Because if there was ever a time to call "Shotgun!" it is now.