New Beginnings

August is here, and for me, this month comes with all sorts of emotions. Excitement bubbles over as my children venture into a new school year. The slow sensation of fear travels my spine as I wonder how my children will adjust to new schedules, teachers, friends, and routines. Worry lines appear around my eyes as I think about peer pressure my high schooler will encounter and teacher expectations that will be placed on my middle child.

Every year feels like a new beginning of sorts. This time last year, we had moved to our new town, starting over with friendships and church relationships. Peter had enrolled in  Physical Therapy school while I began working outside the home for the first time in almost a decade. It was a difficult beginning.

And this year brings about more challenges.

I’ve taken a new job at two different schools, one of which is an elementary school that my littles will be attending. And while I’m excited to finally be working at a school that my children attend, this change means they will need to switch schools. Again.

And a new job for me means new co-workers, new students, new routines, and new expectations. For this lover of consistency, I’m anticipating some discomfort in the early days of the new year.

We all experience new beginnings and changes in our lives. Some of us adapt easily to change and others have to be dragged into it kicking and screaming. I usually find myself somewhere in the middle.

But as I anticipate a new reality, I am reminded of the truth found in God’s Word. Psalm 91:1-2 says this:

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

And Psalm 139:5 tells us: “You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.”

When we trust in the Lord, when we rest in Him, He can become our refuge. Even amidst changes and challenges, He can shelter us from worry and fear, from anticipation of the future. He will lay His hand on us and protect us.

I love that.

What are your worries for this upcoming school year? Are you experiencing any changes or challenges as a family? Bring those worries to the Lord. He will surround You with His love and strength.