Weekly Devotional: Starting Fresh

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

As we come to the end of summer, you may be shifting your focus to what is ahead. Whether you are starting to think about moving into your dorm, beginning new classes or making new friends, you may be wondering what this next season will bring.

Oftentimes, as we anticipate the future, we reflect on the past. When thinking about starting this new school year, you may be brought back to memories from last school year.

Whether last year was a wonderful season or a challenging season, we can find hope in knowing that God always gives us a fresh start. In fact, God does not just give us a fresh start upon changing seasons, but He also offers us a fresh start each and every morning.

Whether we are content with our past or disappointed in some of the decisions we have made, we can move forward because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. He died for our sins, and through Him, we can find forgiveness.

Isaiah 1:18 says, “’Come now, let us settle the matter,’ says the Lord. ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.’”

So, how can we approach this new season with a blank slate? All we have to do is pray and allow God to work in our lives. If we submit our ways to Him, He will be with us every step of the way. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

As we come closer to the start of a new school year, I encourage you to spend time in prayer. Ask the Lord to use you for His glory this year, and lift up any concerns you may have to Him through prayer. When times are difficult, remember that you can rely on God for your strength.

At Grand Canyon University, Christian principles are integrated across everything we do. To learn more about GCU’s Christian identity and heritage, visit our website or use the Request More Information button at the top of the page.