Have you been feeling like something different is in the air as you head to something new? Or are normal everyday situations becoming more difficult and don’t seem to work anymore? 

That’s what new beginnings can produce in us. Realizing things seem to be changing can create excitement, anticipation and possibly fear. For some personality types, change can be traumatic.

There are many types of new beginnings that are a natural part of life. Graduations, weddings, childbirths and/or adoptions, new business startups, planting churches, and moving to a new location are just some of them.

Jon and I sense that we are a place where we need to pay attention and prepare for something new. We are doing this by being intentional with our prayer times and talking together about what we think is coming. We are very different in how we handle new situations, so one thing we know is we have to be in agreement to make the decisions that come with anything new.

As I was preparing for my day this morning, Jeremiah 29:11 once again came to mind, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.” I got my BibIe out to read it and saw a condition as I read verse 12 and 13, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

So, according to scripture, it is God’s intention for us to live a bountiful life. He planned it that way. To me, the conditions became clear it is in calling, seeking, finding, and praying to Him that leads Him to listen to us. That tells me part of the answer to our welfare belongs to us. For believers in Jesus, this is a pivotal part.

It’s getting quiet, responding yes, and accepting His answers, provision, and wisdom. Putting your faith in Him to meet your needs. In doing this, peace should come. Peace that transcends all understanding. Ephesians 3:16-21 talks about how you receive this peace through Jesus Christ.

I have found as I enter the tango of preparing for birthing anything new, I must be conscious of what is going on in my heart. What emotions are coming up as I prepare. Am I feeling sadness, anger, loss of what could have been, criticalness, unbelief, or other negative emotions that would lead me to want to quit. Am I questioning my ability, my worthiness, and whether I will measure up in this?

There may be unresolved trauma, shame, or guilt from recent or past events that make you fearful to birth or start something new. Pay close attention to the emotions that come up in you as you process Sit before your gracious Heavenly father and cry out to Him and He will show you things you do not know, Jeremiah 33:3.

Practicing the basics of the Christian faith like praying, repenting, reading the Bible, fasting, being generous, and doing acts of kindness can help you get free from fear and able to hear His voice clearer. Then, the new adventure can begin with hope in your heart and plans for a great future!

Are you beginning a new phase in your life? Have you taken the time to stop and rest in His presence to find the answers you need for your questions and fears? It’s my experience it is well worth the time!

Please leave comments on how you have overcome in times of new beginnings. What have you learned in the preparation and transition?