“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee…” – Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)
For most of us, new beginnings are approached with trepidation because of the uncertainty that comes with them. A new job, a new country, marriage, or even a promotion. All bring fear mixed with the excitement of brighter prospects.
Genesis 11 introduces the patriarch of Abram’s ancestry. His father Terah left his home and country and began his journey to Canaan. We do not know why he migrated, but he took Abram his son (later named Abraham), Abram’s wife, and Lot his grandson with him. He never got to Canaan. He died in Haran. Abram himself was spoken to by God to leave Haran. He set out on a journey to a land that God would show him. He did not know where he was going but he knew and trusted God. This was counted to him for righteousness. God gave him a new beginning and he became one of the richest and most influential men of the east because he trusted in God.
The story is told of a missionary family who migrated to America. One child in that family had been doing very poorly in school in their home country and it was believed she was mentally challenged so her education was neglected. However, due to the health checks, they were all required to undergo after arrival in America, it was discovered that the child’s vision was severely affected. With the appropriate treatment, that child’s vision was restored and she began an exciting journey of discovering the wonderful world of books. Her learning disability disappeared. It was a new beginning for this family in a strange land but more so for a child who later became a great missionary herself.
A new beginning is what we receive when we accept Jesus into our lives. “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:…” – (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our minds are renewed as we feed on God’s Word. Our thoughts, words, and actions begin to line up with His plan for our lives, as long as we stay with Him. What a marvelous change, a change that cannot be hidden. Be bold. God is with you.
Pray
Lord, You have been our dwelling place throughout the generations. Like the children of Israel, we have often strayed. But You pursued us so that when trouble came and we turned again, You were never far away. We thank You that You have not dealt with us after our sins nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. We ask forgiveness for our disobedience and Your deliverance from evil, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Read: Genesis 11:31-31; 1 Corinthians 2:9; 2 Timothy 1:12
Bible Reading Guide: Psalms 107:10-22; Galatians 1; Isaiah 33; Isaiah 34; Isaiah 35
