Do you remember your first day of school? How did you feel? Did it depend on your age, stage or phase of life? Did it depend on your parents, the environment or just how it went that day? Or did none of it matter and, it was always a challenge?
I've actually never met someone, although I know they're out there, who said, "No matter the year, the age or what's going on in my life, I always looked forward to the first day of school." Most people feel a mix of emotions; nervous, anxious, excited. They dread certain parts while looking forward to others.
I often wonder what God thinks when He sees his children start something new, their first day of school, job or anything. I offer you that perspective today.
You see, we have judgement based on so many things that come into play that God may not even consider. He made us, he knows our hearts and he knows exactly what's going to happen. He's already present in every moment ahead of us. Life isn't without suffering, and He never promises that it will be easy. But He does promise that He is with us and in the end, He will work all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 NIV ref)
It is a simple thought; not a cure, and maybe doesn't change how you feel immediately. But perhaps a simple thought about how to think about starting something new.
How would God see you starting your first day of anything.....school, health plan, new job, new relationship, new life goal?
When we pause to borrow God's eyes and imagine what He sees we gain a different awareness about our own circumstances. It's a little like watching a really good movie that you know turns out well in the end and no matter how many times you watch it, you still feel great knowing how it turns out in the end.
So today, as you begin whatever is new for you, try putting on a different pair of eyes. See if you can look at your circumstances the way God might.
Notice how you feel, notice what you may say to a friend and encourage them on their first day. Then say that to yourself. And then say that again, again and again in twenty different ways and 20 different tones, just like you would encourage someone you love. Give these words an opportunity to truly sink in.
Best wishes my friend and may you have ease and joy today.