How do you feel when you are starting something new? When you are in a new school, a new class or a new city. Or it could be that you are kicking off a new line of business. Well, for me, new beginnings sometimes come with doubts, uncertainty, and a little bit of fear. There is the desire to excel, and I constantly question myself about what I need to do better.
You see, while we are encouraged to leave our comfort zones, I think it’s important to consider that a lot of work sometimes goes into the making of a comfort zone. For example, a young girl has a passion for playing the keyboard. She spends months learning and after a while, she becomes good at it. Although she needs to keep getting better, but that instrument is kinda like a comfort zone for her. However, the comfort zone didn’t come easy; it took a lot of work.
I have realized that after a while of growth, there is usually a call to something new. It could be an extension of the current, or a deviation from the present path.
Imagine a baker who works hard, becomes an expert at cakes, but now has to learn to make pastries. Or the mechanic who is a pro at fixing Toyota vehicles, and now needs to learn about a new brand of vehicles; it could even be that he needs to learn proper bookkeeping or branding for his business.
The thing is, new beginnings can be challenging and daunting. In this light, I’ll like to share three lessons from Scriptures that I have found helpful in similar circumstances.
a. Remember God’s faithfulness in the past: The truth is that although you are facing a new challenge, you have been “here” before. You have faced situations in the past where you were a beginner. It could be as a first-time driver, a new student in school, or as a new staff in an organization. God helped you then. God will help you now.
When faced with Goliath, David reminded himself of divine victories when facing the lion and the bear.
“He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us.” 2 Corinthians 1:10
b. Realize that you are assured of victory: As a believer who is in the will of God, you are assured of victory. You are not fighting for victory; you are fighting from victory. Romans 8:37 teaches that we are more than conquerors through Christ.
c. Roll up your sleeves and work: Armed with the memories of God’s faithfulness and assured of victory in the present, it is time to put in the work. Read, research, and learn what is required of the new phase. Work hard. Work well. Let it not be said of you that you gave anything less than your best.
“Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.” Romans 12:11 NLT
“Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11 KJV
I pray that you will experience the Lord’s help at every point in your life’s journey. He will go before you and make crooked paths straight. His favour will surround you as a shield. You will not lack the gift of men. Your hands are strengthened. Your path is made straight. You are helped of the Lord. You will go from glory to greater glory. You will be honoured. You will be divinely lifted in Jesus name. Amen.
