Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.

Isaiah 41:10a

Stepping into a new beginning proves bittersweet. First comes a goodbye, and its form takes many shapes: the loss of a loved one through death or disconnection, the move away from a beloved neighborhood to a new home, maybe the transition of one work routine into another, or moving on to the rhythm of retirement. Whether filled with grief or joy, leaving the familiar for the unknown takes courage.

To have courage takes faith. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go,” Joshua 1:9 reminds us.

Leaning into a fresh start, with trust that the LORD will take our hand and lead us through apprehension, awakens the imagination and strengthens our resolve to grow into the future — no matter what circumstances created the change.

Elizabeth Cavanaugh
South Pasadena, CA

Dear Lord, thank You for lighting the way along the winding path of uncertainty. Amen.

Reflect: How has your trust in God led you to a new beginning?

Read: Lamentations 3:22-23 and 1 Corinthians 16:13