Opening Scripture:

“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” – 2 Corinthians 13:5 (NIV)

Introduction: A Moment to Reflect

We’re still in the early part of the year, but let me ask you something: How’s it going so far? Are you moving in the direction God has set for you, or have you drifted off course?

Many start the year with excitement and focus, but as life gets busy, challenges arise, and distractions creep in, it’s easy to veer away from God’s plan. This message is a call to reflect, refocus, and realign with His divine direction.

The Story: A Wrong Turn That Stole My Peace

A few years ago, a man was driving to a conference in an unfamiliar city. He had his GPS on, but at some point, he ignored the recalculating message because he thought he knew better. The road looked fine, and he felt confident in his direction.

An hour later, he realized he hadn’t seen a single sign for his destination. He checked his GPS again—and he had completely missed his turn. That wrong turn didn’t just cost him time; it stole his peace and delayed his arrival.

That’s how many of us live spiritually. We assume we’re on the right path because things seem okay. But how much further will you go before you stop and ask: Am I still walking in God’s will?

Main Points: Course Correction for Your Life

1. Stop and Reflect: Examine Your Path

“Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure.” – Proverbs 4:26 (ESV)

Reflection is a biblical principle. God calls us to regularly examine our decisions, actions, and priorities. Have you been too caught up in busyness that you’ve neglected time with God? Have you said “yes” to things that weren’t His assignment for you?

Don’t wait for the warning signs to become too obvious. Pause now and ask: Am I still on the right path?

2. Make the Necessary Adjustments: Course Correction Requires Humility

“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)

When I missed that turn to my conference, I had a choice: keep going and hope for the best, or humble myself, admit I was wrong, and turn around.

Realigning with God requires humility. It’s hard to admit when we’re off course, but God’s grace is abundant! Just as a GPS recalculates when we take a wrong turn, God’s mercy provides fresh direction when we seek Him.

3. Recommit to Your Destination: God’s Purpose for You

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

Even if you’ve taken detours, God’s plan for you remains unchanged. It’s time to recommit to His vision for your life. Maybe that means setting aside distractions, refocusing on spiritual growth, or stepping out in faith to pursue His calling.

What small adjustments can you make this week to realign with His purpose? Daily prayer? Reprioritizing your schedule? Letting go of unhealthy distractions?

Challenge: Where Are You Headed?

Think about your current direction. If you keep going the way you are, where will you end up? Are you getting closer to God’s purpose or drifting further away? This is your opportunity to make a course correction. Don’t wait until the year is over to realize you’ve been heading the wrong way.

Closing Illustration: The Lighthouse Keeper

There’s an old story about a lighthouse keeper who was responsible for keeping the light burning bright every night. He had a limited supply of oil and was instructed to use it only for the lighthouse. But one night, a villager asked for oil to light his home. Then another came for oil to warm his house. Wanting to help, the keeper shared his oil with them.

By the end of the month, the lighthouse ran out of oil, and its light went out. Ships that depended on the lighthouse for navigation were lost, and some crashed into the rocks. When the keeper was confronted, he defended himself, saying, “I was only trying to help!” But he was reminded of his primary responsibility: to keep the light burning.

Are you running out of oil because you’ve given it to things that don’t align with your purpose? God has called you to shine His light—don’t let distractions extinguish your flame.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us to examine our paths and align our lives with Your will. Show us where we need to make adjustments and give us the humility and courage to obey Your leading. Help us to walk in Your purpose and reflect Your light in everything we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Call to Action:

Take time this week to reflect on where you are. Write down one or two areas where you feel God calling you to realign with Him. Share your commitment with someone you trust for accountability, and trust God to guide you step by step. This is your year to walk in purpose!

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