Walk with Him: An Antidote to Road Rage

Ezekiel 1-3; 33-34; 36-37; 47
Come Follow Me: Old Testament 2026
(November 2–8)

Three Thoughts from Terri

I’m not a road rage driver and that’s significant given I commuted from Park City to Salt Lake City every day for over 30 years and drove with some pretty crazy drivers, especially in snowstorms. What is my secret? I give them a story. They’re rushing to the hospital where a loved one is in trouble. They’re late for an important job interview. There is something going on in their lives that is causing them to drive less than is safe.

The story isn’t about giving them an excuse for poor choices (I admit I smile if the speeders are pulled over by the Highway Patrol), but it’s a way for me to stay calm and nonreactive. Rather than jumping immediately to anger and frustration which leads to judgement and possible hand gestures, I focus on my driving and getting to my destination without drama.

“I will also put a new spirit in you to change your way of thinking. I will take out the heart of stone from your body and give you a tender, human heart” (Ezekiel 36:26, Easy to Read Bible). Replacing a heart of stone with a tender, human heart starts with changing our thinking. Our heart softens once our thinking moves from critical judgement or “villain stories” to assuming good intent and considering other possibilities. The shorthand version of this process is asking yourself, “What would Jesus think and do in this situation?”.

Two Thoughts from Others 

"When you change the way you think, you can change the way you feel." (David D. Burns)

“…think more about the Savior. Do you remember this scripture? “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” Immerse yourself deeply into the divine mission, the perfect life, the life-changing teachings, the incomparable Atonement, and the breathtaking promises He offers you. Pray more in His name, read His words, apply His teachings, speak His name in reverence and with conviction, and believe in His power to forgive and refine you. The more you put Him into each of your days, the more you will know He is your Savior and Redeemer. Settling this in your heart will be the natural consequence of your renewed confidence in Him.” (Elder Neil L. Andersen)

One Experiment for You

The next time you’re driving and someone cuts you off, experiment with creating a story for them that treats them with respect and keeps you calm.