Spring Forward Into New Things

by

Dawn Ivey

Isaiah 43:18-19, “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.”

For most of us, life can be very routine. So, the idea of God wanting to do something new may not cross our minds as often as it should. Especially since we tend to be focused on getting through the day and our list of tasks.

I was listening to a sermon recently, and the Pastor was sharing about when he and his wife were expecting their first child. He said their home was set up for two adults (and a dog), but with a new baby on the way, they had to rearrange things so their home would be ready for the new addition. But not only did they have to make changes in their home but also in their lives.

God wants to do new things in us and in our lives. But, like expectant parents, we have to be willing to make room.

2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

When we invite God into our lives through His Son, Jesus Christ, He is excited about the new life He gives us. He is excited about spending time with us and having us get to know Him better. He is excited about partnering with us to bring His love and light into the world. He is excited about all the things He will see us do. No matter how long you’ve known the Lord, none of that has changed! He is just as eager now as the day you first gave your life to Him to bring newness into your life. He wants to refresh your soul and bless you with good things.

Psalm 84:11 NLT For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.

God doesn’t want us to invite Him in only when it’s convenient for us or when we have an urgent need. He wants to walk with us daily as we navigate life. He wants to be our closest friend, who shares in our victories and failures. Why? Because He loves us.

When I reflect on my own experiences, I remember many times that I had to rearrange things to prepare for something new God wanted to do. It often meant leaving my comfort zone and taking steps of faith while trusting Him to provide what I needed.

When God calls us from what is familiar to something unfamiliar, it is because He has something new in mind for us. Embracing something new can be challenging. Sometimes, we may welcome change, but other times, we may not. We may feel excitement or fear. But regardless of our feelings, we have to keep trusting God. Even though we may not understand everything, He will give us what we need as we take obedient steps of faith to answer His call.

Think about your own life. Are there things God has placed in your heart that He wants you to do? Is there something that is holding you back?

Proverbs 16:3 NLT, “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”

It takes commitment to reach our goals and see plans come to pass. We have to commit to the process. Which includes the work God wants to do, not only in our circumstances but also in our hearts. But for new things to happen, we must be willing to make room. Change in our lives only happens with our participation. When we say “yes” to God daily, we can experience more of what we were created to do.

With every step of faith you take, I pray your heart will be filled with hope, knowing that God wants to bring good into your life. He wants to create streams in dry places. And bring opportunities and people into your life who will be a special blessing.

But the question remains, “Are you willing to make room?”

Dawn Ivey is the author of several inspiring Christian devotionals, Honoring Jesus at Work,31 Days of Inspirational Writings to Encourage Your Faith in Jesus and Relying on the Love of Jesus to Heal Your Heart.

She also enjoys encouraging others through her writings on her blog, Drawing Closer to Christ. In addition to writing, Dawn enjoys reading, visiting new places, and volunteering. Although Dawn has lived in various states, she is a native of Virginia, where she currently lives. She also enjoys spending time with her daughter, Shalenah, family, and friends.

Dawn can be reached at the below:

https://drawingclosertochrist.com

https://www.youtube.com/@drawingclosertochrist