(Proverbs 1:23) Repent at my correction.

Repentance is one of the most misunderstood words in Christianity.

It simply means to “change one’s mind” or to “turn around and go in the other direction.”

But repentance is not a one-time event; it is an ongoing lifestyle.

Is repentance a common action in your life?

Is it as common as when you pray?

We are to repent—to change our minds and go another way—at God’s correction.

God’s correction sounds so negative, doesn’t it?

Is God’s correction in your life a negative thing?

But why?

God’s correction simply means his discipline.

Is God’s discipline in your life a negative thing?

God’s discipline is a safeguard that keeps Christians from walking into a shipwreck.

God knows our hearts and actions at all times—even in our private lives.

So often, we think we can hide from God.

That’s foolish.

God’s discipline and correction are always a manifestation of his grace toward us.

It is God’s guidance.

He doesn’t want us to walk off a cliff.

God’s guidance through repentance is actually a wonderful thing.

We cannot grow toward maturity and wisdom—spiritual adulthood—unless we practice repentance and turn around when we sin in our behavior or attitudes.

God’s guidance through grace is not punishment.

Repentance is not a shameful act on our part.

We should welcome God’s correction.

It is an act of obedience under his Lordship.

When we repent, which often includes seeking forgiveness, we align our hearts with God’s will.

Are you spiritually flexible and quick to change direction when necessary?

The promise is that God will reveal his truth and wisdom to us.

He will pour out his thoughts to us.

Correction is an amazing promise on God’s part.

I encourage all of us to remain spiritually flexible in our walk with Jesus Christ so that we can change direction when God makes it clear to us.

It is for our good.

Open your heart and your ears to hear his voice.

Is repentance a normal part of your walk with Christ?

If not, why not?