How To Experience a Turnaround In Our Lives

Topic Scriptures: John 10:10 NLT; Psalms 23: 1-2; 2 Peter 1:2-3, NKJV

There is a certain kind of life that God wants His children to enjoy.
He tells us in His word that His plans toward us are to give us hope and a future, not to harm us (Jeremiah 29:11). Jesus did not come to reduce us. Jesus died so that our lives would be made beautiful.

However, there are times when our lives do not look beautiful. Sometimes, life seems a far cry from God’s intention for us. When this happens, we need not lose hope. If we take stock of our lives and realize it doesn’t match God’s word, then we need what is called a Turnaround.
A turnaround is a change in direction. It is a change in circumstances, whether physically, spiritually, financially, or relationally.

It is the turning of our lives away from frustration and brokenness to the joy and peace of the Holy Spirit.
Most importantly, it is available to every one of us as children of God.

10 KEYS TO EXPERIENCING A TURNAROUND IN OUR LIVES

1. Start with honest self-assessment and self-judgment. (2 Cor 13:5; 1 Cor 11:31)
   How tempting it is to blame others for our problems! How easy it is to look outside ourselves and hold others responsible for our circumstances! But we must grow out of this. We must learn to take responsibility for where we currently are and realize the part we have played in bringing about certain issues and problems in our lives. This is the first step toward change.
2. Develop a strong desire for a turnaround. (Psalm 21:2; Mark 11:24; Psalm 107:9)
   Understand something: God’s provision in our lives is highly dependent on our desires. The Lord will never force a turnaround – even a positive one – on us. We have to earnestly desire change and be willing to do what it takes to attain it.
3. We must have faith that things can change for the better. (Heb 11:1; Mark 11:23; 2 Cor 4:13)
   The Bible teaches us that without faith, it is impossible to please God (Heb 11:6). Allow me to add that without faith it is also impossible to experience a turnaround. Faith in God refuses to accept any circumstances that don’t align with God’s word and His promises. Faith holds on to the knowledge that at the right time, God will step in.
4. We have to trust in God. (Jeremiah 17:5-8 NLT; Psalm 18:2; Luke 1:37)
   Trusting in men, according to the Word of God, is a curse. So is trusting in yourself. Escape that trap. Flee it. God is the only sure and reliable source of help. If you trust in Him, He will deliver you.
5. We must be humble. (James 4:6 NLT; James 4:10)
   Humility means having a modest opinion of ourselves and our importance or rank. It means not seeing ourselves as above anybody. It means being able to be spoken to, directed, and corrected. Humility invites God’s grace, but pride only causes God to set His face against you.
6. We must learn to make midstream corrections. (Luke 15:17)
   When we realize we’ve made certain mistakes, pride, and shame can make us stay where we are and keep us stuck. But no matter how low you may have sunk, you can do a midstream correction. Like the prodigal son in Luke 15, we can decide to make a change for the better.
7. We must seek wisdom. (Proverbs 4: 7-9; Ecclesiastes 7:12; James 1:5)
   Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge, understanding, and insight. Wisdom is what shows us how to deal with different situations. Wisdom is essential for maintaining the turnaround that God brings our way. And if we lack wisdom, we can ask God. He will graciously provide.
8. We must seek help from above. (2 Kings 6: 26 – 27)
   Everybody needs help. We are only as great as the help we receive. And who is a greater helper than our God? If God does not help us, there is nothing we can do, but when we seek His help, there is nothing that can stop us.
9. We must persevere. (Phil 3: 13-14; Hebrews 12: 1-2)
   Don’t give up! Don’t quit! God is with us. Yes, the road will have challenges. Yes, there will be setbacks. But do not let them stop you. Do not let them break your spirit. Set your eyes on Jesus, and run with perseverance the race set before you.
10. We must develop Patience. (Heb 6:12)
    As with everything important, experiencing a turnaround takes time. Be patient with God. Be patient with the process. Be patient with yourself. God will not fail you. God will not abandon you. Your turnaround will happen if you only wait on Him. God Himself will bring it to pass.