In the last week I have experienced some new beginnings. Anyone who has school age children has experienced this as well (or will soon). I had the joy of being there to see my nephews get on the bus for their first day of school last Monday.
Another beginning was a workshop I attended for my Bible study. It was a great time of prayer, fellowship, teaching and training. I also found out that I will be leading/teaching the Senior Level (9th-12th grades) as we study the book of Isaiah. Very exciting!
New beginnings can be exciting but also sometimes scary. For instance, leading Seniors is a bit scary to me because of the unknown. I know they will bless me but what if I don’t have all the answers? (by the way, I know that I don’t have all the answers but we can learn together!). Going to a new school or off to college can be both exciting and scary—again because of all the unknowns.
No matter what we are facing, we are not alone.
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." Lamentations 3:22-24 NIV (emphasis mine)
Without challenges, change and trouble we will never grow nor will we learn to depend on God. Many people have found out that God is never more near to us than when we are in a trial. When things are going along smoothly is when we forget about praying and studying God’s word. We think we don’t really need Him.
If you are embarking on something new remember the following verse—it is one that my husband clung to when he left a lucrative career to answer God’s call to become a pastor.
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV (emphasis mine)
We cannot dwell on the past but look forward to the “new thing” God has placed in our lives. Though it may feel like the wilderness or the desert He will make a way if you trust in Him.
Have a great day!