Starting over after a major disappointment such as a
divorce, or the loss of a job, can be a challenging and emotionally draining
process. Have you ever had to start over? I have had to restart after a
divorce, and it was not an easy process. Learning to love and trust again was a
process and it took time. We live our lives based on our religious beliefs and
we tend to think that with Jesus we will overcome the challenges but when our
relationship fails, or we lose our job it causes us to question our beliefs. I
found that even though I questioned my faith wondering why, why did the Lord do
this or allow this to happen to me, how come I could not salvage my
relationship or save my job?
After a couple days of soul searching the Holy Ghost began
to encourage my heart and my mind and I began to draw strength from my faith in
Christ Jesus and relying on His mercies. Gradually God began to provide
comfort, guidance, and renewed hope. His words began to refresh my heart and
mind. Isaiah 43: 18-19 states, “Remember ye, not the former things, neither
consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring
forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and
rivers in the desert.” Just as the Lord
encouraged me, I am sure He will also encourage you.
Starting over requires applying the principles taught to us
by Christ and the knowledge acquired by our education and experience. First, we
must acknowledge our feelings. Psalm 34:18 states, "The Lord is close to
the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Allow yourself to feel the disappointment and
grieve the loss or failure. It's essential to acknowledge and process your
emotions to begin the healing process. Secondly, we need to seek God’s Guidance
and Wisdom as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your
heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight." We should also spend time in
prayer, seeking God’s guidance, wisdom, and direction for our lives. Ask Him to
reveal His plan and purpose for you, even during your healing process.
Thirdly, it is very important that we forgive and release resentment.
Ephesians 4:31-32 states, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger,
brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and
compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God
forgave you." Forgiveness is
crucial for healing and moving forward. This includes forgiving others who may
have contributed to the disappointment and forgiving yourself for any perceived
failures or mistakes. Fourthly we should learn from our mistakes and failures
and embrace a renewed mindset. Romans 12:2 tells us, "Do not conform to
the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then
you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing,
and perfect will." Focus on renewing your mind with positive and
faith-filled thoughts. Replace negative and defeating thoughts with the truth
of God’s Word and His promises for your life.
Fifthly, we should take practical steps forward guided by Philippians
3:13-14, "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken
hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward
what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has
called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
Set achievable goals and take practical steps to move forward. This may
include seeking new opportunities, learning from the experience, and trusting
God to guide you in the right direction. We must surround ourselves with a supportive
community. We are encouraged by Hebrews 10:24-25, "And let us consider how
we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting
together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and
all the more as you see the day approaching." A supportive community of friends, family,
and fellow believers can encourage, uplift, and pray for you during those times.
As we continue to trust in God’s unfailing love and promises,
meditate on Lamentations 3:22-23, "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." Remember
that God’s mercies are new every day, and His love is unfailing. Trust in His
promises and have faith that He will work all things together for your good and
His glory.
