Devotion: When God Speaks into the Beginning

Following from Wednesday's post, here is a devotion.

When God Speaks Into the Beginning

Scripture Reading:

Genesis 1:1–5

Psalm 127:1

Proverbs 16:3

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

— Genesis 1:1

Reflection

Every beginning carries weight.

New years, new seasons, new assignments, new hopes, each one presents an opportunity to either rush ahead in our own strength or pause and invite God to lead. Genesis opens with a profound truth: before anything became, God already was. And before anything worked, God spoke.

Verse 2 tells us that the earth was without form and void. There was darkness. There was chaos. Yet God did not abandon the process. The Spirit hovered, and the voice of God broke the silence. Light came first, not because everything was ready, but because God’s presence was enough to begin the work.

Many of us step into a new year feeling unfinished, unclear, or uncertain. But Scripture reassures us that God does His best work in places that look unformed. He does not wait for perfection; He responds to surrender.

Meditation

Take a moment to consider this question:

What area of my life feels like “the deep” right now, unsettled, unclear, or dark?

Instead of trying to fix it immediately, imagine inviting the Spirit of God to hover there. Listen for His voice. Often, God does not reveal the entire plan at once. He simply speaks light for the next step.

Psalm 127:1 reminds us “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain who build it.”

Starting with God is not about slowing down—it’s about building wisely.

Prayer

Lord, as I step into this season, I choose to begin with You.

Where there is disorder, speak Your word of order.

Where there is darkness, speak Your light.

I commit my plans, my hopes, and my uncertainties into Your hands.

Build what You desire in my life this year, and help me to follow Your lead faithfully.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Practice for the Week

At the start of each day this week:

1. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and decisions.

2. Ask one simple question: “Lord, what are You doing today, and how can I join You?”

3. Commit your plans to God before acting on them.

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.”

— Proverbs 16:3

Closing Thought

This year does not need to be perfect to be powerful.

It simply needs to begin with God.