Hello, Godly Wives!

This post will empower wives, moms, and just about anyone to flip the script and embrace a positive mindset when things start to feel like the story is over.

We’ll look at why your story isn’t over, who in the Bible had new beginnings, what books in the Bible talk about new beginnings, examples of starting over in the Bible, Psalms about new beginnings, and Bible stories about new beginnings.

Grab your pen, prayer journal, and your favorite mug of hot beverage, and let’s get started.

The Story Isn’t Over

After reading Ancestors, I found out something interesting at the end of the book. Instead of writing “the end,” the author chose to close the historic novel with the words “the beginning.”

After taking the readers through a captivating and eye-opening historic narrative that ended with the declaration that slavery has been abolished, Paul Crooks wanted his readers to know that though the novel ended there, the story wasn’t over.

The novel Ancestors ended while giving hope about the unexpected journey that the characters would face.

Like Paul Crooks, the author of Ancestors, we can decide to embrace the unexpected challenges we face, like new beginnings. This book is a reminder to each godly woman out there that even though things may seem to be coming to an end, your story isn’t over.

Why Your Story Isn’t Over?

When we get to the end of a chapter in a book, sometimes we just need to move to the next page to see the beginning of the next chapter. We can use this same principle in life to remind us that there are new beginnings even when it seems like our story is about to end.

A New Beginning is Coming 

When one season or chapter of our life ends, we can look forward, knowing that the future holds great hope for us. Our limited minds are unable to predict what will happen, and that is why we were given assurance in Jeremiah chapter twenty-nine.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV)

The future that the Lord has in mind for us is one that is filled with hope and good plans.

Psalm 30:5 is also a passage of hopefulness. It reminds us not to give up even in our darkest moments. “…his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”

Who in the Bible had New Beginnings?

Many Bible characters experience new beginnings, drastic transformation, and renewal. The biblical accounts of Abram, Noah, Joseph, David, Daniel, the three Hebrew boys, Jonah, Caleb, Jairus’ daughter, Lazarus, and Moses show that with the power of the Lord, new chapters can come from old stories.

Sarai, Rachel, Hagar, Queen Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Hannah, the widow at Nain, and the women at the well are women who were mentioned in scripture for the very purpose of reminding godly wives today to embrace new beginnings even when it seems like the story is over.

What Book in the Bible Talks About New Beginnings?

The Bible has many books, chapters, and stories about new beginnings. Genesis, the first book of the Bible, is considered the book about new beginnings because it outlines the story of creation. Revelation, the final book of the Old Testament, closes while giving hope and painting pictures of the life that the saints will have in the new heaven and the new earth.

Between Genesis and Revelation, many other books in the Bible capture new beginnings for prophets, the children of Israel, nations, and other individuals (named and unnamed).

New Beginnings in the Old Testament 

The five books of Moses outline the story of creation, the establishment of the sanctuary service, the story of the flood, and so many other topics about starting over. The books of history highlight accounts about Israel as a nation and remind us that even amidst apostasy, stubbornness, and so many other things, the Lord is still willing to extend mercy and give His people a new start.

The poetic books have psalms, proverbs, counsels, and even the story of how Job got new blessings after going through a painful experience. The major and minor prophetic books in the Old Testament are filled with stories about newness, starting over, renewal, transformation, and hope.

New Beginnings in the New Testament

The title of the second half of the Bible is enough to let you know that it’s all about new beginnings. The sanctuary service established in the wilderness was fulfilled when Christ was crucified.

After four hundred years of silence, new prophets came on the scene. The gospels explore the good news, and Acts highlights how the story of the Christian Church was starting over with followers believing in the resurrection of Jesus. The twenty-one letters give advice and encouragement not just to the church then but to us now to keep looking forward to the new chapters in our lives.

What Are Some Examples of Starting Over in the Bible?

Examples of starting over in the Bible have themes of newness, renewal, reformation, transformation, repentance, and moving forward.

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah with Lot and his family leaving the city is a Bible story about starting over. The decision of the people in Nineveh to repent, fast, pray, and change their lives was proof that they wanted to start over. The book of Nehemiah looks at starting over in a new place while renewing worship with the Lord.

Resurrection and baptism are also two biblical themes about starting over. Resurrection is about having another chance to live after being dead, like Lazarus, Jairus’ daughter, and Jesus. Baptism is symbolic of dying to self, moving forward in the newness of life, and living for the Lord.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)

What Psalm is for New Beginning?

In the Psalms we may find powerful prayers, songs, and counsels that will help us as we embark on new beginnings. Here are five Psalms about new beginnings that you may use for encouragement and hope.

May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. (Psalm 20:4 NIV)

This Psalm is an excellent prayer for new beginnings that you may pray for yourself and others as you make plans for the future.

Psalm 25

Psalm 25 is a great chapter to meditate on or pray as you prepare for new beginnings. It allows us to constantly look to God for direction and guidance as we start new ventures in our lives. Verses three and four look at truth, salvation, and learning the path of the Lord. The two final verses focus on integrity, uprightness, and being rescued from troubles.

He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. (Psalm 40:3 NIV)

The battles we win and the obstacles we overcome are testimonies for thanksgiving. After proving God’s goodness and experiencing His providence, we are left with new songs that praise Him for taking us to new heights on our journey of faith.

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10 NIV)

This Psalm is a request for forgiveness. It asks for the renewal needed to move from the wrong we did in our past so that we may move forward without the burdens of sin that weigh us down. Sometimes a renewed spiritual mindset is exactly what we need to be rid of the old and embrace the new chapters in our lives.

May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands. (Psalm 90:17 NIV)

This is a powerful prayer that seeks the favor of the Lord and asks Him to bless the work of our hands. This is why this Psalm is especially great for praying when we are about to begin something new.

Bible Stories About New Beginnings

These Bible stories about new beginnings will remind you that the story isn’t over and that even when things seem impossible, you should trust in the Lord

1. The Story of Noah’s Flood

The story of the flood is one that reminds us to be hopeful as we embrace our new beginnings. The story of the antediluvians came to an end. Life as Noah and his family knew it ended, but the story wasn’t over.

There was hope for the animals, Noah’s family, and everyone else that lived after the flood. God, through the covenant of the rainbow, gave us the assurance that there will not be another flood of that magnitude.

Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.” (Genesis 9:16 NIV)

There are some experiences that we face as Christ followers that we will only go through once. There are certain spiritual tests that we will only take one time so long as we get it right the first try.

As children of the Most High, we will experience floods of various kinds, but we know that the rain will eventually stop, the waters will dry up, the sun will come out, and we will see a rainbow.

2. The Story of Ruth and Naomi

Ruth, Naomi, and Orpah experienced the bitterness of losing their husbands. Naomi lost her husband and her two sons and was faced with the challenges of surviving in a male-dominated society, but her story didn’t end there.

These three women were faced with the bitter reality of loss and grief, but they look for hope and a new beginning. Naomi decided that she was going to start a new chapter by returning home.

Sometimes our new beginning as empowered women is dependent on us making up our minds to “return home.” Returning to our families, returning to a ministry we walked away from, going back to mend broken relationships, or even returning to our walk with the Lord.

Naomi and Ruth’s story is a challenge for us to forget our grief and the things that pain us and turn to the Lord for guidance, direction, and provision. He has promised to transform our stories into testimonies of hope. 

and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. (Isaiah 61:3 NIV)

3. The Story of Jacob Running Away

It’s amazing how the Bible has story upon story about new beginnings even in situations where it seems like everything is over and done. Jacob hurt his brother by cheating him out of the birthright. In his mind, his life was really over because Esua was about to get him.

Being at home with his parents and brother became a thing of the past when Jacob had to run away. He left the familiar and ventured out into the unknown. 

Like Jacob, your story will not end when you venture out into the unknown areas of your life. You will get the chance to wrestle with angels, overcome them, and receive innumerable blessings.

I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:3 NIV)

Jacob left home all alone, but when he returned, he had a multitude with him. Your new beginning marks the start of a beautiful journey where the Lord will multiply the little you have now. 

Even though you have to leave some places and relationships because of fear, you can still embrace your new beginnings. Like Jacob, in the end, your enemies and fears will be things of the past.

4. The Story of Israel Leaving Egypt

The story about the Children of Israel leaving Egypt has many lessons about new beginnings. Though their story in Egypt was coming to an end, they had a number of new beginnings to look forward to. The Passover, the beginning of months, and the journey to Canaan were just a few things that marked a new chapter in Israel’s history.

A career change, a pregnancy, starting school, or changing address are just some examples of the fresh starts that you may experience. Just continue to trust God in the trying moments and depend on Him to strengthen you.

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13 NIV)

5. The Story of Samson Losing His Strength

After Samson lost his sight and strength, his captors believed that was the end for him. But guess what? While his enemies thought they had the upper hand and stopped seeing him as a threat, Samson’s dependence on the Lord grew stronger. It was through this renewed bond that he asked the Lord to renew his strength and allow him to destroy his enemies.

Even if you lose everything or the most important things in your life, you can still depend on God to answer your prayers. The Lord granted Samson’s request, and He is ready and willing to grant your request for renewal. All you need to do is ask in faith.

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 NIV)

6. The Story of Saul Losing His Sight

While on the road to Damascus, Saul lost two things: his sight and the burning desire to punish all those who believe in Jesus. The Lord transformed his passion, and just like that, Saul had a new beginning. His story about hunting down Jesus’ followers ended, and he lost his sight, but his story didn’t end there.

The story of Saul the persecutor ended and gave way to the ministry of Paul the Apostle. He travelled for the sake of ministry, wrote letters, and planted churches, and his story and ministry are still encouraging us today.

Sometimes when we lose some things, we are drawn closer to the Lord, and He’s better able to use us for His kingdom. Saul’s story is a reminder to keep moving forward when the Lord removes certain desires, material things, and even people from our lives.

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14 NIV)

7. The Story of Moses

If there is ever a character whose story seemed like it was over, it’s Moses. While he was in his mother’s womb, there was a death sentence on his life. As a babe he was placed in the Nile; later he was scolded for killing an Egyptian and had to run to save his life. 

With all these atrocities, Moses’ story did not end because at each point the Lord was working things out in his favor. The fire in the burning bush, delivering the children of Israel from Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, and going to the mountain to speak with God are just a few examples of the new beginnings that Moses experienced throughout his one hundred and twenty years.

Your journey may have started with a rough patch. It could be that you are guilty of breaking moral and ethical laws and have to run to save your life. But guess what? Your story isn’t over. The Lord will show up for you the way He showed up for Moses. He will be with you and work things out in your favor even if your faith is only the size of a mustard seed.

Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20 NIV)

8. The Story of The Israelites Leaving Babylon

When the children of Israel left Babylon, they were venturing out into the great unknown. Some of them had never experienced life out of captivity or knew what it was like to be in their own country, but they left Babylon believing that the Lord will provide.

Sometimes we venture out into the great unknown not because it is comfortable or familiar but because we know the promises of the Lord are true. I want to appeal to someone reading this post by saying, “It’s time to leave Babylon behind; it’s time to return and claim the promises of the Lord.”

Don’t let fear, anxiety, or doubt prevent you from embracing the chapters that the Lord has written for your future. Be hopeful knowing you can claim each word in 2 Timothy 1:7, which states, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

9. The Story of Mordecai and Esther

The plans that Haman had were meant for one thing—to end the Jews. Fasting and prayer, along with some advocating, led to Haman’s downfall and the Jews being saved from annihilation.

Chances are the new chapters in your life may be delayed because you are putting off fasting, prayer, and advocacy. You are not expected to hide behind the scenes but to step out in faith and effect the change that you want to see happen.

As you meditate on Esther 4:14, tell yourself that you are being called to effect change “for such a time as this.”

10. The Story of Sarai Laughing

Sometimes as godly women, we laugh at the thought that our stories may change. Before being visited by the angels, Sarai’s story was entitled “The Wife With No Children,” and this is why she laughed at the thought that she would become pregnant.

Sarai claimed a title for her story and told herself that the story would end with her not being a mother. God intervened, changed her name to Sarah, and promised her that she would be the mother of a great nation.

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27 NIV)

Nothing is too hard for God to accomplish in your life. When nature, the laws of science, and everything else say that your story is over, the Lord can step in and give you a new beginning.

11. The Story of Hannah Praying

Though there was no reason to doubt that her husband loved her, Hannah had a feeling of emptiness inside that could only be changed by having a baby. She was dissatisfied with her story and decided that she was going to pray until the change she wanted came.

Hannah wanted to be a mother, and she turned to the Lord to make it happen. Praying in sincerity may be the only thing preventing your current situation from ending and making way for your new beginning.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6 NIV)

12. The Story of Darius and Daniel

The story of Daniel in the lion’s den is another one that looks at how prayer and faith can change the trajectory of our lives. Others will conspire and put plans in place to ruin you, but the Lord has a way of turning things around. 

The story of Daniel in the lion’s den ended with him being miraculously saved from the lions and Darius trusting the God of Daniel and passing a decree acknowledging that He is the living God.

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. (Genesis 50:20 NIV)

13. The Story of Elijah Hiding in a Cave

Elijah lived in a time when prophets were being killed. He saw the number of prophets dwindle over the years until he was in a state of worry and anxiety. For fear of his life, he hid from his pursuers in a cave.

I don’t know about you, but it’s a terrible feeling to know that you are being pursued by an enemy. Sometimes hiding is not even enough to keep you out of harm’s way. But the Lord does not want us to run and hide. He wants us to stand firm without being fearful of anything or anyone.

Don’t fear the future; step into your new beginnings knowing that the Lord will be with you and give you strength.

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. (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)

14. The Story of The Widow’s Jar of Oil

The widow and her son were preparing to eat their last meal together before dying from hunger in the famine. After her willingness to use her last to feed the prophet, the widow’s story of lack turned into a miracle about abundance. 

Even when you’re at your very end, the story isn’t over. It may be the last money in your account, the last ingredient in your pantry, the last available job vacancy, the final eviction notice, or the last day of the grace period. Whatever the situation, just remember that the story isn’t over.

…You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. ⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23:5-6 NIV)

15. The Story of the Widow at Nain

The widow at Nain was in the funeral procession to bury her son. Most certainly she came upon the painful reality that the life of her son has ended, and going forward she will be all by herself. But the story wasn’t over there. The funeral service did not end the usual way because Jesus intervened.

Even when you are in the midst of grief and suffering, the Lord can intervene and turn things around for you. Scripture says that we should rejoice even in moments when the tears are trickling down.

“Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10 NIV)

Final Thought

At the end of our darkest chapters, we can look forward to new beginnings. No matter how bad things may get, we can be hopeful that the story isn’t over.

I hope that the Bible characters, books of the Bible, Psalms, and Bible stories about new beginnings will encourage you to embrace new beginnings and remind yourself that the story isn’t over. Keep trusting in the Lord, keep looking to the future, and continue to be hopeful.