Counseling Blog
August 2025
God’s Mercies are New Every Morning—And Every School Year!
August is always an exciting time on any school campus, and each of us at Dunham is hustling and bustling this time of year. Our classrooms are filled with fresh faces and new Apple technology, and we can all feel a collective sense of anticipation in the air. A new school year brings new friendships, new routines, new challenges, and new opportunities to grow. But even more comforting than the warm hugs from our favorite teacher or the smiling faces of our Sage Dining staff is this eternal truth: God’s mercies are new every single morning.
For students and parents alike, this promise offers both hope and direction. No matter what happened yesterday—whether a test was failed, a friend was unkind, or a mistake was made—today is a new day with God. And in a school environment rooted in the truth of Scripture, we have the privilege of reminding students that they are not defined by their past mistakes but by God’s grace and faithfulness.
The beginning of the school year is a fitting time to reflect on how God works in seasons. Just as summer yields to autumn, so too do seasons of struggle give way to seasons of restoration. As Isaiah 43:18–19 encourages us, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”
This isn’t just a poetic verse—it’s a practical invitation to stop dwelling on last year’s shortcomings and start anticipating the growth God will bring this year. As well, 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
As believers, our identity is not in our performance or popularity, but in Christ. This truth is essential for our children to hear, especially when they feel discouraged or defeated.
Helping Your Child Embrace God’s New Mercies
As parents, you are your child’s greatest spiritual guide and encourager. Here are a few ways you can help them begin this school year grounded in the truth of God’s daily mercies:
Model It Yourself
Let your child see you live with hope each morning. Whether it’s reading Scripture at breakfast or speaking words of encouragement before school, demonstrate a posture of grace and trust in God’s goodness. When you face setbacks (missed deadlines, long to-do lists, parenting challenges), respond with, “God’s mercies are new today—I get to try again!” and your child will learn to do the same.
Speak Grace Over Mistakes
When your child messes up—whether it’s a forgotten assignment or a poor choice—lead with grace, not shame. Try saying:
- “Today’s a new day. Let’s learn from it and move forward.”
- “God doesn’t define you by this moment, and neither do I.”
- “What can we do differently tomorrow with God’s help?”
This helps your child build a growth mindset rooted in Scripture, not perfectionism.
Create a Morning Mercy Moment
Build a simple tradition into your mornings, either at the breakfast table or on the drive to school, to focus your family’s hearts:
- Read Lamentations 3:22–23 or another verse about God’s love.
- Pray together, thanking God for a new day.
- Speak the truth aloud: “Today is a gift. God is with us. We will face it with courage.”
Even a two-minute ritual sets the tone for a day filled with hope!
Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
When your child improves—socially, academically, emotionally—point it out and celebrate it. Remind them that God is at work in their growth and that He sees the small steps. The goal of each school year isn’t perfection, but progress in character and faith.
Anchor Your Family Identity in Christ
In a world that often highlights achievement and comparison, keep reminding your child: “You are loved, chosen, and called by God—not because of what you do, but because of who He is.”
August brings a chance to begin again in a new school year, but each and every day, week, month, and year brings an opportunity to start fresh, with a God who delights in new beginnings. Let this school year be a time when your family clings to His faithfulness, walks confidently in His grace, and teaches your child to live each day as a recipient of His mercy. Because no matter how many times we stumble or how uncertain the path ahead may seem, one thing is certain: Great is His faithfulness.
Encouragement for the Month
Place this verse somewhere visible in your home (on the fridge, a mirror, or in your child’s backpack):
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22–23
Let it remind your family: God’s mercies are new—today, tomorrow, and always!
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