your daily prayer devotional art


A Prayer for a Fresh Start
By Vivian Bricker

Bible Reading:
“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.” - Lamentations 3:22-23

Listen or Read Below:

There are many days I want to throw in the towel and give up for the day. Whether we do this for a work assignment, a difficult conversation with a friend, or repairing a damaged relationship with our spouse, sometimes waiting for a fresh start can actually help us. Trying to do too much at one time will lead us to burn out.

For one, if we are facing a difficult assignment at work, taking time away from the computer and getting a good night’s sleep can help us to be refreshed in the morning. Sadly, most of us power through to get the assignment finished. This, in turn, leads us to not submit our best work. Rather than trying to power through, we need to prioritize rest and choose to start fresh in the morning.

Secondly, if we are avoiding a difficult conversation with our friend, we also don’t need to try to just “push through.” Words said in the heat of the moment could cause hurt feelings and tears. Chances are, you are already tired from a long day. Due to being tired, you are going to be more likely to say something that you will regret later. When we try to have a conversation when we are tired or frustrated, it will most likely end up in an argument. 

In the same way, if we are trying to repair a damaged relationship with our spouse, we don’t need to try to cruise through difficult conversations when we are drained, tired, or grumpy. Everyone thinks more clearly after resting. If we try to go ahead and start repairing the relationship when we are not in our best frame of mind, we could cause more wounds. This is why it is important that we take advantage of the fresh start that is given to us each day. Every morning, God gives us a new day with a clean slate. A rested mind and heart will help you say what you need to say, work through any issue, and present your best work. 

The Bible tells us, “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” (Lamentations 3:22-23). God’s compassion never fails us, as it is new every morning. His love surrounds us, and we are blessed with a new day. The events of yesterday can be moved past, and we can face the new day with a heart of hope. Remind yourself of God’s love and compassion when you need a new start. Tomorrow morning is a day to start afresh. There is no need to be afraid or worried about what might happen because God is with you. When the days feel too dark or the nights too long, remember light is coming in the morning. And this light is God. May we all rest in the majesty of His faithfulness. 

Let’s Pray:

Dear God, I come to You today, asking for a fresh start. I praise You that each morning is a blessing. I can start new because of You and Your compassion. Help me to make the most of every day and to make the right decisions. Prevent me from making any decisions or starting any in-depth conversations while I’m tired or overwhelmed. Thank You, God, for Your love, goodness, and faithfulness. In Your Son’s Name, Jesus, I pray, Amen.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/FG Trade


Vivian Bricker author bio photoVivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate.

Related Resource: When Life Unravels: Biblical Strategies for Hard Seasons

Few challenges stretch a parent’s faith and emotional reserves more than life’s unexpected curveball seasons—the plot twists that leave you wondering, “God, what are you doing?” How do you remain anchored in truth when the bottom drops out?

This week on Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes back her very first guest and trusted friend, Dr. Erin Barry, to help parents not only survive, but find hope and stability in life’s most turbulent moments. Dr. Barry is a clinical Christian counselor, author, homeschool expert, and co-founder of inseparableLives.com. Her biblically grounded wisdom comes from over 30 years of walking families through the storms of life.

In this transparent and practical episode, Catherine gets real about her own season of loss, uncertainty, and a series of shocking life upheavals—from parenting a prodigal, to family moves, to sudden job loss. Using these stories as a backdrop, Dr. Barry unpacks essential biblical strategies for clinging to faith and finding stability when life feels out of control. If this episode helps you be a more thoughtful parent, be sure to follow Christian Parent, Crazy World on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!