Into the Unknown

Starting over has been one of the most daunting yet exhilarating experiences of my life. Whether it’s been starting a new chapter in my career, beginning a new job, or even switching churches, the process of leaving behind what’s familiar and stepping into the unknown is as terrifying as it is thrilling. But in every moment of transition, I’ve held on to God’s promises.

The Fear of the Unknown:

Change always seems to come with a lot of uncertainty. When I’ve settled into a comfortable routine—surrounded by familiar faces and places—the idea of starting over can feel overwhelming. There’s a certain comfort in knowing what to expect, in the predictable rhythms of life that have become second nature. But when I start over, all of that shifts.

Switching churches, for instance, has felt like stepping into a void. I’ve had to leave behind a community where I knew everyone’s name, where my voice was a familiar sound in the choir, where I had a favorite seat every Sunday. Suddenly, I’m walking into a place where I don’t know a soul. The faces are new, the routines are different, and I often find myself longing for the familiarity I left behind. The fear of not fitting in, of being the outsider, can be paralyzing. Yet, in these moments, I’m reminded of Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse reminds me that God is with me, even in the unfamiliar.

The Thrill of New Beginnings:

With every ending comes a new beginning. Starting over, while frightening, is also an opportunity for me to redefine myself, to grow in ways I never imagined. It’s a chance to rediscover who I am outside of the environment that once shaped me.

Switching churches has become a deeply spiritual journey. It’s forced me to rely on my faith more than ever before, to trust that God is guiding my steps, even when I can’t see where the path leads. In the unfamiliar, I’ve had the chance to deepen my relationship with God, to seek Him in new ways, and to experience my faith in a fresh context. “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” (Proverbs 3:5-6). This verse has been my guide, reminding me that even when I don’t understand where I’m going, God does.

There’s also the excitement of new possibilities. Walking into that new church means opening myself up to new relationships, new opportunities to serve, and new ways to grow in my faith. I might discover a ministry that ignites a passion in me or meet someone who becomes a lifelong friend. The thrill of the unknown lies in the endless potential it holds. As I look forward, I’m encouraged by Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Balancing Fear and Excitement:

Starting over is a delicate balance between fear and excitement. I’ve learned it’s natural to feel both, and it’s important to acknowledge each emotion as it comes. Fear reminds me of the value of what I had, while excitement pushes me towards the possibilities of what could be.

The key to navigating this balance has been faith. When fear threatens to overwhelm me, faith gives me the courage to keep moving forward. It’s faith that reassures me that even though I’m starting over, I’m not starting from scratch. I carry with me the lessons, experiences, and growth from my past, which serve as the foundation for this new beginning. Romans 8:28 gives me hope in this process: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Practical Tips for Starting Over:

1. Embrace the discomfort: It’s okay for me to feel uncomfortable when I start over. Growth happens outside of my comfort zone, so I try to lean into the discomfort and see it as a sign that I’m on the right track. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-3).

2. Seek community: Even though I’m starting over, I remind myself that I don’t have to do it alone. I’ve learned to be intentional about reaching out to new people, joining small groups, or getting involved in ministry. Building a new community takes time, but it’s worth the effort. “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” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

3. Give myself grace: Starting over is hard, and it’s easy for me to be critical of myself when things don’t go as smoothly as I’d like. I try to be patient with myself and give myself grace as I navigate this new chapter. “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

4. Stay grounded in my faith: When everything around me feels uncertain, my faith can be my anchor. I spend time in prayer, reading scripture, and seeking God’s guidance. I know He is with me in every step of my journey. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).

Starting over is a bold, courageous act. It’s my declaration that I believe in the possibility of something new, something better. Yes, it’s scary, and yes, it’s thrilling—but that’s what makes it so powerful. As I embark on this new chapter, I remind myself that I’m not alone. Whether I’m switching churches or starting fresh in another area of life, I have the strength and faith to thrive in the unknown. I’m learning to embrace the journey and trust that God has incredible plans for my future.