How should we respond when God redirects our plans, as in Matthew 2:12? A Sudden Detour: Matthew 2:12 “And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they withdrew to their country by another route.” Why God Redirects Us • Protection – The Magi’s new route spared the infant Jesus from Herod’s rage (cf. vv. 13–16). • Fulfillment of His bigger plan – God’s redirection aligns our steps with promises we cannot yet see (Romans 8:28). • Preparation – Detours build faith muscles we’ll need later (James 1:2–4). • Display of His sovereignty – “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps” (Proverbs 16:9). Heart Responses God Seeks • Immediate obedience – The Magi did not debate or delay; they “withdrew” at once. • Humble trust – Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us His thoughts out-reach ours. • Surrendered plans – James 4:13-15 cautions against self-confident scheduling; we say, “If the Lord wills.” • Attentive listening – God spoke through a dream; today He speaks through Scripture (Psalm 119:105), the Spirit’s prompting (John 16:13), and godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14). Living It Out Today 1. Start each day yielding your agenda: “Lord, redirect as You see fit.” 2. Stay sensitive to Scripture; God never guides contrary to His written Word. 3. When a door closes, look for the “another route” He may be opening. 4. Record past detours and how God used them—fuel for future trust. 5. Encourage others whose plans have been upended; remind them of Genesis 50:20. Scriptures for Further Reflection • Psalm 32:8 – “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” • Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust, acknowledge, and He will straighten your paths. • Acts 16:6-10 – Paul’s team is rerouted from Asia to Macedonia for gospel advance. • Psalm 37:23 – The steps of the righteous are ordered by the LORD. |
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