Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 5:17

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Ephesians 4:22–24

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31

Renew means, “to make like new; restore to freshness, vigor. ”For many reasons, my favorite season of the year is fall. We experience the changing of the weather, the changing of the leaves on the trees, and the beginning of the holiday sea- son. And of course, I cannot forget to mention the pageantry and passion of college football! Fall has it all.

Fall provides both a window for reflection on what has been learned in the weeks prior and a time to prepare for what is still to come. It is a time of renewal. The fall season offers opportunities to renew my thoughts, my actions, and my relationships, essentially restoring them to freshness.

Many might equate renewal as a, “coming out of winter and launching into spring.” True for many, but for me the preparation and foundation to renew starts right now… today and every day; but especially in the fall. Why wait till New Year’s Day to renew?

As part of our preparation, all we have to do is call out to our heavenly Father and say, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me” (Psalm 51:10–12). What needs renewal today?

Wherever the preparation for renewal is calling you, do not wait or waver. Heeding the encouragement found in Isaiah 40:31, “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”

DADs, let’s not put off until tomorrow what we can do today, putting on the new self and suiting up without delay!

The DAD Deep Dive

• Where do you need renewal from in your life? A commitment, a focus, a direction?

• Does it need more effort or energy?