I know—that’s not a title you expect to see on a blog for Jesus-followers or those curious about him. But please, hear (read) me out!
You see, the word fast has a number of meanings. The definition of “wild, reckless, and self-indulgent” is only one of them. Fast can also denote:
- fixed, secure, and immovable as in “The rope held the boat fast to the dock.”
- firmly loyal, as in “They became fast friends.”
- completely and deeply, as in “She fell fast asleep.”
These definitions can give new meaning to” life in the fast lane,” when considered in the context of faith in Jesus:
- Our future destinies are fast; they are fixed and secure
- He is our fast, firmly loyal Friend now and forever
- His love for us is fast—it’s complete and runs deep[1]
The Bible also includes other references to fast[2], instructing us to hold on to certain entities as we walk this lane/path of life. For example, we’re told to:
- Hold fast to instruction and never let it go (Proverbs 4:13 NAB).
- Stand firm in the faith (1 Corinthians 16:13 NIV)
- Stand fast in the Lord (Philippians 4:1 ERV); that is, keep our relationship with the Lord firm (same verse, GWT).
- Hold fast to that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21 NIV)
- Hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory (Hebrews 3:6, NIV).
- Hold fast to Christ’s name (Revelation 2:13 MSB)
And what are the results when life is lived in this fast lane with God?
The Bible tells us:
In other words, when we seek to follow the above directives and live in God’s fast lane, we’ll enjoy some high living!
What does that include?
- The wise instruction of God’s Word, providing guidance, peace, comfort, and encouragement (Psalm 119:24, 28, 103; 111, 165)
- Strong faith, protecting us from fear and anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7)
- An intimate relationship with God, enjoying his unfailing kindness (Jeremiah 31:3)
- Good thoughts that result in a continual feast of delight; good actions that result in blessing and fulfillment (Proverbs 15:15b, Psalm 107:9, Acts 20:35)
- Confidence in the promise of heaven that fosters spiritual strength (2 Corinthians 4:16-17)
- Reliance upon all that Christ is (indicated by his many names), contributing to our well-being, and the added joy of reflecting his radiance to others (Colossians 3:17; 2 Corinthians 2:15a)
In a nutshell, the benefits of life in this fast lane include: guidance, peace, comfort, encouragement, serenity, joy, contentment, delight, blessing, fulfillment, spiritual strength, a sense of well-being, purpose, and more. Whew!
That sounds like high living to me—of the heavenly sort!
The question is, will we choose to live in this fast lane?
* * * * * * * * * *
Lord God, thank you for making possible this thrilling journey—accompanied by you, led by you, loved by you, empowered by you, blessed by you. Keep me in your fast lane where I can live life to the fullest as you intended. And may others choose to join us.
[1] 1 Peter 1:3-5; John 15:12-15; Ephesians 3:17-19
[2] Some translations use synonyms such as firm and firmly
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From the Inside Out 
I like your spin on the fast lane. A good reminder to hold “fast” to the Lord. Thank you, Nancy!
You’re welcome, Bridget. The number of blessings we enjoy while holding fast is mind boggling, isn’t it? Our God is so good!
Ha, I like that kind of “fast”
Glad you do, Gary! Praising God here for inspiring the idea. I enjoyed the treasure hunt through scripture, looking for support of “living in God’s fast lane!”
Fabulous post, Nancy. I would never have thought of such a title for a post, but it is fantastic, and so apropos for the shaky times in which we live!
Thank you, Sheila. Isn’t it glorious to know we have an all-wise, all-powerful God in control during these uncertain times? There is no one else who can hold us fast and secure like he can!
Amen! He is marvelous!!
Nancy, I love how you gave that idiom a deeper meaning with a different perspective. It certainly would lead to some interesting discussions with fellow Christians with the kick off question being- Which fast land are you living in?
Interesting idea, Beth! The discussion could include the insights drawn from the listed scriptures. In addition, participants might be able to suggest more Bible-references and aspects of “fast living” not mentioned here.
Catchy title, Nancy! My affection for words has been sated by your creative spin on “fast” 🙂 Ironically, the whole time I was reading your post I had the Eagles’ “Life in the Fast Lane” playing in my head, even though its lyrics describe a life focused on anything BUT Jesus. I much prefer your version of the fast lane. Amen!
We need new lyrics for that song, Dave–lyrics that reflect “our” fast lane of faith. I nominate you to write them! 😄
Love how you expanded our definition of the word fast. Great food for thought
Thank you, Jean!
Excellent post! I love how you pulled all of this together!
Thank you, Linda. Praise God for his inspiration! As you know, “Every good gift is from above” (James 1:17)–including ideas!
So grateful for His faithfulness, for His character, for His love in holding us close to His heart. Weekend blessings to you, friend.
I too am SO grateful for all the ways God ministers to me and blesses. Thank you for the weekend blessing, Linda. I’ve already participated in three events–each a delight!
Great idea and take on the word ‘fast’! With our ever-changing world (and not for the good!) it is such a great comfort that our ‘future destinies are fast, fixed and secure’! We can depend upon the steadfastness of His love as we journey through this temporary home called earth. From Faith Gateway: “You cannot outrun His love. Nor can you hide from it. His love for you is constant and ever present. He relentlessly pursues you, your heart, your dreams.”
Thank you for sharing from Faith Gateway, Cheri. Love that last statement in particular. What a mind-boggling reality that God should care so much!!
“Keep me in your fast lane where I can live life to the fullest as you intended.” Amen! May we live life in obedience which will lead to a full life.
Amen to your prayer too, Dawn! Sometimes I’ve balked at obedience and missed out on the fullness of life God desired for me.
You have given a whole new meaning to living life in the fast lane. I love it! I’ll choose God’s fast lane any day. Blessings, Nancy!
You are a marvelous example, Patty, of the difference God makes when we choose his fast lane!
Thank you, Nancy. Some days I’m just hanging on. 🙂
But you hang with such grace, my friend!
What a wonderful study!
Thank you, Anna. I was surprised by the number of scriptures that referred to steadfastness and holding firm!
Such a pleasant, insightful, and informative read, Thank you, Nancy.
You’re welcome, John. Praise God for his inspiration! And thank you for becoming a follower here at From the Inside Out. I pray you find the posts meaningful whenever you’re able to visit!