Finding Purpose in Detours

Opening Verse

 “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

Introduction

Life is full of unexpected turns and sudden stops. Sometimes, what we perceive as setbacks are actually divine interventions designed to steer us toward God’s plans.

Devotional Story

Imagine a man named Tom, who always had a clear vision for his life. He planned to move to a big city and start a new business. However, just as he was about to leave, a series of unexpected events kept him in his small hometown. First, a sudden illness in the family, then financial difficulties that seemed to appear out of nowhere.

Initially frustrated, Tom started to volunteer at a local community center to pass the time. Through this, he discovered a deep passion for helping others and realized the community’s need for services his business could provide. The roadblock that seemed to be a setback was actually a path to a fulfilling purpose he had never considered.

What This Means

God’s guidance can sometimes feel like a roadblock, redirecting us from the path we’ve chosen to one that He has prepared for us. These moments challenge us to trust not in our own plans, but in His greater design.

Think About This

When faced with unexpected roadblocks, do you react with frustration, or do you take time to seek God’s purpose in the pause? Could there be opportunities to serve or grow that you are overlooking?

Prayer

Dear Lord, help me to see the roadblocks in my life as signs of Your guidance. Grant me the patience and wisdom to discern Your will and the courage to follow it, even when it leads me away from my original plans. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)