A Fresh Start

The devotional that I read on New Year’s day provided three bible verses that were incorporated in the message. As I read them I thought about how fitting and refreshing they were to read and believe.

The first was Isaiah 43: 18-19 which reads;

“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 wilderness
    and streams in the wasteland.”

This passage was so encouraging to me and an answer to many prayers. To know that God is making a way in a wilderness experience we have been going through and the confirmation of His word brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart.

He was confirming His plan by reminding me that He make streams in the wasteland. He is going to flow right through the emptiness and barrenness that was before and make all things new! Praise God!

The next verse was Psalm 118:24 which reads;

“This is the day that the Lord has made;
    let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Today is a gift from God. He created every detail of this day and we are here, present in this day, for a reason. Throughout the day He has provided many special moments if we choose to see them. There is purpose in this day and we get the opportunity to see His purposes if we choose to view them with thankfulness and a grateful heart.

The final verse was Psalm 16:11 which reads;

“You make known to me the path of life;
    in your presence there is fullness of joy;
    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

No matter where our paths lead we are invited to travel them with His presence. Imagine Jesus right there with you every step. Talking with you, pointing out amazing things that fill you with awe, laughing with you, holding you in His warm embrace and providing comfort.

Another translation of that verse reads;

Instead, You direct me on the path that leads to a beautiful life.
    As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending,
    and I know true joy and contentment.

I pray that you will see and follow the path that God has created for you. Knowing that His purpose is to give you a beautiful life in Him filled with joy and contentment. And in that contentment I know you will find the peace that surpasses understanding.

I also pray that you will take hold of the opportunity for a fresh start and new beginning. The past is the past. God has a future for you and He is already there preparing a way for you.

My Prayer

Father, thank you for this day! You created it with purpose and included us in this day. Open our eyes to see Your treasures along the way and enjoy the journey with You. Thank you for making a way in the desert and creating streams that remove the deserts of the past. In Jesus’ name, amen.