The Courage to Begin Again
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
— Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
There’s something beautiful about a fresh start, but let’s be honest, it can feel overwhelming too. Beginnings are often full of unknowns, and unknowns can stir up fear. Whether you’re starting a new job, going back to school, raising a child, stepping into a new calling, or simply navigating a season of personal growth, starting again takes bravery.
This month, I’m stepping into a brand new chapter by beginning my Master’s program. It’s something I’ve prayed about, hoped for, and worked toward, but now that it’s here, it’s brought all kinds of emotions with it. I’m excited and grateful, but I’ve also had moments of second-guessing. Am I really ready for this? What if I can’t keep up with everything? What if I’m not enough for the tasks ahead of me?
Maybe you’ve felt that way too.
We live in a world that glorifies constant confidence, but real courage often looks quieter. It’s choosing to begin again even when you are unsure. It’s showing up with a soft heart and steady faith, knowing that God is not only with you, but ahead of you, preparing the way.
When I think about beginning again, I think about all the people in Scripture who didn’t feel ready either. Moses questioned his ability to speak. Esther feared stepping forward. Peter failed and still got up. The stories we cling to most are not about people who were perfect, but about people who obeyed anyway.
Beginning again is not about having all the answers. It is about trusting the One who does.
So if you’re standing at the edge of something new, I want to remind you that fear does not disqualify you. God does not call the fearless. He equips the willing. Even when we cannot see what is ahead, we can rest in the truth that He goes before us, stays beside us, and covers what is behind.
You do not have to be fearless to begin again. You just have to take the next step in faith.
Prayer
Lord, Thank You for the gift of new beginnings. Thank You for the way You walk with me into unfamiliar places and never ask me to be perfect, only present. Give me the courage to take the next step, even when I feel nervous or unsure. Remind me that I am not alone. You go before me, and You are faithful. Let me walk into this new season with peace in my heart and confidence in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
What new beginning are you stepping into right now?
What fear or uncertainty is trying to keep you from moving forward, and what would it look like to invite God into that space?