One of my favorite things to do as a pastor is stand in the back of the church and greet people. I have so many diverse conversations. One that often comes up is about starting fresh with God.
Many situations bring people to this place. Some grew up in church but drifted away and now feel a longing to reconnect with the God of their youth. Others made choices that distanced them from God, leaving them wondering if they could ever come back. Some have gone on an intellectual journey, questioning God, only to realize they deeply miss the very One they doubted.
Countless paths lead us to the desire for a fresh start with God. My hope is to make this simple so that anyone can take steps toward a renewed and life-giving relationship with Him.
Steps to Start Fresh With God
1. Acknowledge Who God Is
The first step in a fresh start is recognizing God’s character. He is loving, merciful, and faithful even when we are not.
Psalm 100:3 - Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Take time to reflect on His goodness and His desire for you to be close to Him.
2. Accept God’s Grace and Forgiveness
No matter what has happened in your past, God’s grace is greater. He is ready to forgive and restore. You do not have to fix yourself first. Come as you are.
1 John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Let go of guilt and shame. Accept His grace, knowing that He welcomes you with open arms.
3. Adjust Your Priorities to Make Room for God
A fresh start with God requires intentional change. Rearrange your life to make space for Him daily.
Matthew 6:33 - But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Evaluate your schedule, habits, and distractions. Make time for prayer, Scripture, and spiritual growth.
4. Talk to God in Prayer
Prayer is an open conversation with God. It does not have to be formal or rehearsed. Speak to Him honestly.
Psalm 145:18 - The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
Start by thanking Him, confessing what is on your heart, and asking for His guidance in your fresh start.
5. Read Scripture Daily
God speaks through His Word. If you want to know Him and grow in faith, spend time reading the Bible.
Psalm 119:105 - Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Begin by learning about Jesus through the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). Then, read the Psalms for encouragement.
6. Connect With a Bible-Believing Church
Faith is not meant to be lived alone. Surround yourself with a church that teaches God’s Word and encourages spiritual growth.
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.
Find a church where you can worship, learn, and build relationships with other believers.
7. Join a Christian Community
Beyond attending church, build real connections with other believers who will support and challenge you in your faith.
Proverbs 27:17 - As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Get involved in a small group, Bible study, or discipleship relationship where you can grow and be encouraged.
8. Serve and Live Out Your Faith
A fresh start with God is not just about receiving. It is also about giving. Look for ways to serve others and put your faith into action.
1 Peter 4:10 - Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
Serving in your church or community or through acts of kindness strengthens your faith and draws you closer to God.
God’s mercy is fresh every day. No matter how far we have strayed, His faithfulness allows us to start again.
9. Always Remember
God’s mercy is fresh every day. No matter how far we have strayed, His faithfulness allows us to start again.
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.”
