I’ve learned a great deal about navigating life’s twists and turns through my involvement with NASCAR, including the key strategy of taking the time to pit. Pitting allows for critical adjustments. I’ve seen many drivers refuse to pit, though, and that choice ultimately cost them the victory.

Once, I was in South Africa with my friend and NASCAR legend, Geoff Bodine. We were part of a team that put together a NASCAR-style race in that region. Geoff had won the coveted pole position and remained in contention throughout the race. Then his fuel ran low.

“Pit, Geoff!” the crew chief yelled over the intercom. But Geoff kept driving, sure he could make it to the finish line. His gamble, though, didn’t pay off. He ran out of gas on the last lap and gave up his victory.

Pit stops can be hard to take, especially when a driver is leading the pack. It can feel like they’re giving up their position. But actually, they are positioning themselves for victory.

In a race, a pit allows a driver and their crew to address concerns and make changes. “Loose” cars can be adjusted to keep the driver from spinning out. Likewise, “tight” cars can be tweaked so that the driver doesn’t have to struggle to make turns.

Repairs are made, usually using duct tape. We call it “200 mph tape,” as it can cover a cracked fender and make it more aerodynamic. Cars are refueled and tires are changed. Windshields are wiped down to clear the driver’s vision, and grills are cleaned to help the engine run at its best temperature. Finally, the driver can get refreshed and refocused during a pit.

The same is true in life. Pitting—taking the time to pull off the track to evaluate your life with God and a caring crew—can help you make critical adjustments that will keep you from running out of fuel or spinning out.

But I’ve met many people who, like my friend Geoff, don’t want to take the time to pit. Pulling off the fast lane of life seems inconvenient or counterproductive. People think it’s a sign of weakness or that they will allow others to pass them by. But it’s none of those things.

God has prepared a great race for each one of us to run. But our races are long, complex, and often include unexpected and frightening twists and turns. We all must pit to evaluate our ways, thoughts, and outcomes if we want to finish well.

Here are some ways that you can help yourself reach lasting change as you strive to cross God’s finish line victoriously.

• Commit to Christ. Jesus Christ changes people for the better. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV).
• Pride leads to destruction, but humility leads to victory. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up” (James 4:10 NIV).
• Accept, ask, be accountable. Accepting adjustments and asking for help aren’t signs of weakness; they’re the first steps to real change. Being accountable to authority helps you stay on track and move forward.
• Learning to say no to old ways, thoughts, and people is critical. Not
• everyone can go where God is taking you.
• Grace and Gratitude. Immersing yourself in God’s amazing grace and being grateful for all He’s done will bring joy and times of refreshing (Acts 3:19–20).
• Set and reset realistic short-term goals. And when they are accomplished, set new ones. Each small step achieved will bring a sense of accomplishment and move you closer to where you want to be. Celebrating each milestone will keep you encouraged.

Remember, you’re not in this race alone. God is with you, and He is for you. Decide to pit with Him often. He will help you identify and make needed changes and give you strength for the journey.

Randy Claypoole served as a NASCAR chaplain and public relations/media representative. He also owned and operated the ISCARS Dash Touring Series, a professional auto racing series. As a member of the Victorious Living prison event team, Randy helps those who feel disqualified for God’s race get back on track.