Thursday, August 31, 2006

A Fresh Start

Tomorrow I begin a new position at Indiana Wesleyan University. I am the new Alumni Director. This new position is both exciting and scary. I have many new things to learn, people to meet and work to do! This change comes after much prayer and searching for God's direction. There are many interesting changes that have occurred over the summer months but suffice to say, God has led every step!

Beginning something new also means facing new challenges, meeting new people and changing many routines. This change also offers a fresh start. For this reason, I contemplate the passage of scripture that says: (22) You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; (23) to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (24) and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. - Ephesians 4:22-24

When something is new it is initially exciting and feared. Many questions arise. You feel vulnerable. You tend to question yourself more; second guessing many typically held views. Even when change comes as part of your Christian walk, your natural tendency to question the implications of the unknown. This is especially true when change is negative and unexpected.

God is showing me that He can further deepen my faith and strengthen my walk with Him. I have a new heightened understanding of truth and faith in God. Often we thing of this passage referring to new believers but it may also apply to those who have walked with the Lord for many years. God, who is forming me in His image, has many lessons yet to teach me. Just in changing jobs there are many new experiences, so too in our walk with Christ.

This new position is a fresh start. It is an opportunity to learn and also to grow in my relationship with Christ. While many things remain the same, there are many more things that will further develop me personally and spiritually.