New Beginnings - Same God

Thursday, August 17

New Beginnings, Same God
By: Lori Ennis

“Hope Anchors The Soul.” Hebrews 6:19
 
I am a storyteller.
I always have been.

Whether in person or in my written words, I’ve had the honor and privilege of sharing stories that matter somehow, to someone.

When you read this, the story of a house I’ve called mine for 16.5 years will no longer be one I’m writing or telling.

Within this home, so much life has happened. The walls have silently witnessed roaring laughter, desperate whispered prayers, and everything in between. This house is where I plotted just to stop eating and die after my son died, and where God restored my heart each day reminding me that He was with me. From that lowest of low, to the best feeling in the world when I brought my second son through the doors, this house has stood ready for me, for better or for worse.

And now, today, I close that chapter as I close on this house.
 
The Bible reminds me a lot of a house…full of words that tell the stories of human experiences that change lives. It's brimming with tales of new horizons and poignant goodbyes. Isaiah 43:18-19 tugs at my heart, saying, "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?"
 
But while it hints at hope and fresh starts, it also acknowledges the hard weight of moving…and moving on.
 
Starting new, especially when God points the way, isn't just about plucking up courage and leaping. It's still a blend of faith, weighty decisions, and acknowledging the bitter-sweetness of what's left behind. How does one simply turn the key and step away from a place that's framed the best and worst days of life? Not easily, I assure you.
 
But, the Bible reminds us that our paths aren’t whimsical detours in this life journey. There's intention and design.
 
God, in His infinite wisdom, crafts our stories, pushing us out of comfortable nests when He sees the opportunity we have for His best if we just listen to Him and obey. It's tough to bid farewell to comfort and security, but I promise, it’s tougher to wrestle with the turmoil of not following where He’s leading.
 
If you’re like me and feel unequipped or overwhelmed at the thought of new beginnings, especially ones that tug at our heartstrings, take heart. God promises He will never leave or forsake you. When God guides, He provides. And often, in ways we least expect.
 
Closing the door on chapters that you’ve loved can break your heart.
 
The only One who can hold and mend that heart is our Father, and He wants to do that for you. If you’re at the end of some story—whatever it may be—trust that He loves you so much. Then, even though the uncertainty of what’s to come may be daunting, you’ll have an assurance and peace that will anchor you through it.