Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the LORD! Lamentations 3:40
My car is now ten years old and from its fourth birthday it has been required to go and have a check-up. This check-up puts the vehicle through a number of tests, some quite simple and others more vigorous – but each one vital. The result of the tests can offer two possible outcomes. Either, the car has done well and is still fit for the road, or something needs attended to in order to bring it back to where it should be. The first outcome gives peace of mind that all is good and working as intended. The second allows for necessary fixes to be made to get the car back on track.
I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord… Jeremiah 29:11
Walking in the will and plans of God is something that every Christian should strive to do, although it can sometimes prove challenging to try to figure out what His specific plans might be. Some people seem to have God’s road map in their hands, while others are still looking for directions. Whatever group we are in, we are all prone to inadvertently taking our future into our own hands every now and again. We get distracted with a seemingly good idea or notion and it causes us to veer off our intended path.
Yet even now, declares the LORD, return to me with all your heart. Joel 2:12
From time to time we need to take stock of where we are and re-evaluate the path we are following. Think of it as a type of spiritual MOT, as we test and examine our ways. In doing this, we allow ourselves time to assess if we are still on the right road, going in the direction God wants for us. On the off-chance that we have unintentionally switched lanes, we have the opportunity to make the necessary adjustments and return to the way of the Lord.
Knowing that we are walking in the plans of God gives us a real sense of peace, for we find strength and true contentment within His will.
