Before GPS was commonplace, I needed to travel to an unfamiliar destination, so I asked a well-traveled friend for help.

He agreed to drive and have me follow since he had some things to do in the area and we were both sure I would be able to find my way back alone.

Along the way, however, other vehicles separated us until I could barely see him far ahead of me.

No problem, I thought. I had noticed a car much nearer that seemed to mimic every turn and take every exit my friend had taken. Surely it must be going to the same place, I reasoned. Why not follow it instead? It was so much more convenient to keep an eye on it since it was closer.

What a mistake!

I later found out that multiple routes ran parallel — to a point. Then each veered off to different destinations.

I was lost.

Many of the valuable lessons I learned as I painstakingly re-traced the route applied to my spiritual journey with Jesus:

• When following, I must keep my eyes only on Him.
• Stay close; do not follow at a distance.
• Routes that seem better, similar, or more convenient will only lead me astray. After all, not all travel companions are headed to the same final destination.