GREYHAIRLADYSPEAKSOUT

Kicking the Tires
When faith becomes your GPS, even the back roads feel like blessings.

The Origin Story: Why We Kick Things

Have you ever thought about the phrase “kick the tires” and where it came from? Back in the early 1900s, when cars were still new and slightly suspicious contraptions, folks would literally walk around and kick the tires before buying one, or before trusting it on a long trip. It didn’t really do much, but it made them feel better. A little confidence boost before hitting the open road.

Kind of like how we thump a watermelon in the grocery store, none of us really know what we’re listening for, but we do it anyway and nod like, “Yep, that’s a good one.”

Life’s Lot: Testing What Feels Right

Fast forward a hundred years, and the phrase has rolled right into every corner of life. We “kick the tires” on new jobs, new friendships, new dreams… and yes, new relationships. It’s our way of seeing if something feels right before jumping in.

But for me, this season of life feels different. Before I jumped back into the world of “kicking the tires,” I thought I’d better pop my own hood first. Turns out, I wasn’t exactly a fresh-off-the-lot model, there were a few dents, a bit of rust, and a warning light or two flashing on the dashboard… “Faith Alignment Needed” and maybe a “Service Faith Soon” light blinking.

God’s Garage: The Tune-Up of Grace

And after nearly being cat-fished (yes, that happened), I took an even harder look. I realized I didn’t just need a tune-up, I needed a divine overhaul. It had affected me more than I wanted to admit. Thankfully, God’s the best mechanic in the business. His shop never closes, His repairs always come with grace included, and He doesn’t charge by the hour.

But here’s the thing about grace, it’s the ultimate mechanic. God didn’t just patch me up; He renewed me from the inside out. Over the years, He’s taught me who I am, and more importantly, whose I am. I’ve learned to love this version of myself, wiser, softer, and completely anchored in faith.

Checking the Alignment: Matters of the Heart

So now, when I say I’m “kicking the tires,” I don’t mean testing love like it’s a used car on the lot. I mean seeking alignment, with someone whose heart beats to the rhythm of God’s Word. I want to know what’s under the hood of his faith. Does he pray when no one’s listening? Is kindness his default setting? Does integrity guide him when no one’s watching?

Because for me, this isn’t about butterflies anymore (though I’ll never turn them down, they still make me smile). It’s about building something that can weather the storms, survive the potholes, and handle the occasional emotional traffic jam.

Let’s be real: aging is not for sissies, and I’ve earned every mile I have on me. These days, I care less about horsepower and a whole lot more about spiritual traction; because faith will take you places charm and chemistry simply can’t.

Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” That’s the kind of love I believe in, the steady, faithful kind that shows up every day, even when the road gets rough.

When Backseat Drivers Weigh In

Now, will I still get comments like “Slow down,” “Be careful,” or my favorite, “Are you sure this is a good idea?” Of course I will. Everyone’s opinions come from their own life experiences, not from my heart and certainly not from my relationship with God and His divine guidance.

But here’s what I know deep down: I no longer make decisions based on fear or public opinion. I follow peace. I trust my faith. And most of all, I know God.

Proverbs 3:6 reminds me, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” That’s why I can smile when others doubt the route I’m on. They may not understand my pace or my direction, but that’s okay. My confidence doesn’t come from people’s approval, it comes from knowing Who’s holding the map.

The Road Ahead: God at the Wheel

So whether this road ahead is a quiet country lane, a winding mountain pass, or a long stretch of open interstate, I’m not afraid of the miles. I’ve got peace in my passenger seat, joy in my rear-view mirror, and God at the wheel.

And as for me? I’ll keep kicking the tires with prayer in my heart, laughter in my spirit, and a quiet certainty that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.

Author’s Note:
The older I get, the more I realize faith isn’t about always knowing where you’re going, it’s about trusting Who’s leading. The roads may twist and turn, but His timing never fails. So, kick the tires if you must, but do it with grace, gratitude, and a smile that says, “God’s got this.”

With love and faith,
Marie

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