When can a new beginning be harmful? - Beginnings - TouchPoints

Jonah 1:3Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the Lord.

A new beginning is harmful when we try to escape from our responsibilities or get away from God. Jonah’s actions remind us of those situations in our lives in which God gives us instruction but we deliberately start in a different direction. In these moments we are not only in danger of harming ourselves but also in danger of harming our relationship with God.

James 1:14-15Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.

A new beginning is harmful when we begin to consider giving in to temptation. Feeling tempted is the first clue that we have been wanting what we shouldn’t. If we lose sight of the danger in those desires, we will allow our temptations to direct us. When we give in to temptation and sin willfully, we have started down a harmful path.

Philippians 4:8Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

A new beginning is harmful when we start thinking impure thoughts and dwell on them. An evil action begins with a single thought. It’s important that we train our minds to think about what is good and right. Consider making a list of specific things that have one or more of the eight qualities mentioned in the verse above. Use this list to guide your thoughts.