I thought about my ways and turned my feet to Your testimonies.

~Psalm 119:59 NKJV

Cleaning has always been therapeutic for me. Unfortunately, my kitchen countertops are speckled granite, often concealing the grime that’s in plain sight. Each evening, I adjust the lighting and stoop to see if I missed any crumbs. I usually find some in a corner or in plain sight, visible if I look carefully enough.

One morning, as I cleaned and inspected, I realized that I don’t examine my life with the same focus. I’m not always careful with my words, and rarely weigh them before they spill out. When my behavior doesn’t align with God’s Word, I create distance from God. Instead of seeking His mercy, I conceal my sin, as if God were unaware.

Like the apostle Paul, I desire to do good, but I don’t readily do it. I doubt I’m alone in this. We all falter. The important thing is that we turn from our willful disobedience and turn to God for the strength to keep pursuing His heart.

Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.”  And you forgave the guilt of my sin.

~Psalm 32:5 NIV

God wants us to put His Word into practice. The disciple James reminds us that we’re not only to hear God’s Word, but also to apply it (James 1:22). Doing so requires a realignment of our patterns of behavior and speech. God’s Word challenges us, and without the help of God’s Spirit, we would fail to live up to its standard.

Scripture further instructs us to turn the other cheek, not to repay evil for evil, and to do good to our enemies. But we’re often sluggish to obey, careless with words, and impatient with those we love most. Too often, I’ve failed and have regretted my loose words.

When we allow God unhindered access to our hearts, He transforms us into a clearer reflection of Christ. When we walk in obedience, God empowers us so that we don’t cave to our natural inclinations. He fills our lack, transforming our character, enabling us to live up to the higher standard He’s called us to.

Let’s agree that it is time to examine and turn. God will cleanse us when we confess, washing away the sins that entangle us.

Yield yourself to God. He has the power to help you live in a way worthy of His calling.

Heavenly Father, You’re faithful to forgive and empower me to live a life that pleases You. Help me in my weakness and grant me a willing spirit to obey. In Jesus’s name, amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2026: Nydia DiCarali: Time to Examine and Turn: All Rights Reserved.