August is the eighth month—the number eight in scripture symbolizes “new beginnings.” This month, we step boldly into the new things God has for us as His daughters. The past does not define us. God’s grace invites us to let go of yesterday and press on toward what He is doing today.
Philippians 3:13-14 urges us: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Forgetting what lies behind means releasing the grip of past hurts, regrets, or even successes that might keep us from moving forward in faith. Instead, we are called to an intentional journey—setting our sights on spiritual growth, making conscious choices, and persevering through challenges. The prize is the fullness of life God offers us; let’s be determined to reach it, living a life that pleases Him.
Scripture Focus:
Philippians 3:13-14 | Isaiah 43:18-19 | 2 Corinthians 5:17 | Lamentations 3:22-23 | Revelation 21:5
Steps to Embracing New Beginnings
- Release the Past
Ask God to help you let go of what no longer serves your journey—guilt, shame, disappointments, or even old victories that keep you comfortable. - Receive God’s Renewal
Open your heart to God’s promise of new mercies every morning. Allow Him to refresh your mind, spirit, and dreams. - Move Forward with Purpose
Set goals for spiritual growth and make intentional choices to pursue God’s calling, even when it feels uncertain. - Celebrate Progress
Recognize every step you take, no matter how small. God delights in your progress, not just perfection.
Weekly Devotional Journey
Week 1 (August 1–7): Letting Go of the Old
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” (Isaiah 43:18)
This week, reflect on the freedom God offers as you release what’s behind.
Daily Practices for Week 1:
- Sunday: Pray for the strength to let go of past regrets.
- Monday: Read Isaiah 43:18-19 and journal what “new thing” God may be doing in your life.
- Tuesday: Confess any burdens you’re still carrying and ask God to lift them.
- Wednesday: Share with a sister how you’re choosing to move forward.
- Thursday: Thank God for His power to make all things new.
Week 2 (August 8–14): Welcoming God’s New Work
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19)This week, pay attention to the newness God is bringing—big and small.
Daily Practices for Week 2:
- Sunday: Ask God to help you notice the “new things” He’s doing.
- Monday: Meditate on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and thank God for making you new.
- Tuesday: Try something new in your spiritual routine—worship, prayer, or serving.
- Wednesday: Encourage a sister to step into her new season.
- Thursday: Reflect on how God has renewed you in the past year.
Week 3 (August 15–21): Pressing Onward in Faith
“I press on toward the goal…” (Philippians 3:14)
This week, focus on perseverance—keep moving forward, even when it’s tough.
Daily Practices for Week 3:
- Sunday: Identify one area where you need courage to press on.
- Monday: Pray for God’s strength to persevere through challenges.
- Tuesday: Write down a spiritual goal for this month.
- Wednesday: Reach out to your community for encouragement.
- Thursday: Celebrate a breakthrough, no matter how small.
Week 4 (August 22–28): Living New Every Day
“His mercies are new every morning.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Embrace God’s daily renewal and walk in fresh grace.
Daily Practices for Week 4:
- Sunday: Thank God for new mercies today.
- Monday: Forgive yourself and others for past mistakes.
- Tuesday: Start your day with a declaration of faith for the future.
- Wednesday: Support a sister who may feel stuck in the old.
- Thursday: End the week by worshipping God for His faithfulness.
Final Days of August (29–31): All Things New
“He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’” (Revelation 21:5)
Take these days to reflect, rejoice, and recommit to walking in newness.
Closing Practices:
- Friday (Aug 29): Write a prayer thanking God for new beginnings this month.
- Saturday (Aug 30): List three areas where you’ve seen renewal.
- Sunday (Aug 31): Close out the month with praise for the new season ahead.
Monthly Reflection Questions
- What do I need to release so I can move forward?
- How is God calling me to embrace the “new” in my life?
- What steps am I taking toward spiritual growth?
- Where have I seen God’s renewal this month?
Prayer: Father, thank You for making all things new. As we step into August, give us courage to let go of the past and faith to embrace Your new work in our lives. Help us to press on with purpose, trusting that You are doing something beautiful in us and through us. Refresh our spirits and renew our hope. May we walk in the fullness of Your promises, living each day as Your daughters—loved, chosen, and made new. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
📌 Special Reminder:
No matter what your past holds, God’s future for you is filled with hope. This month, let’s encourage each other to move forward, trusting that He truly makes all things new.
Reflection Themes:
- Release Time: Letting go of the old
- Renewal Time: Receiving God’s fresh work
- Perseverance Time: Pressing on in faith
- Celebration Time: Rejoicing in new beginnings