“The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread? When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh, My adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell. Though a host encamp against me, My heart will not fear; Though war arise against me, In spite of this I shall be confident.” (Psalm 27:1-3 NAS)
When we began this year, back in January, it didn’t look like much. We didn’t know where it would take us or what would happen. It was hidden behind the fog of the unknown. Most of us plunged straight in without a lot of forethought or preparation for the end.
We balanced our lives along the rocky roads of family, work, through the economy and around the screeching curves of spiritual growth in a physical world. We lived these past twelve months with a menagerie of birthdays, anniversaries, disappointments, encouragements and a few surprises, all of which occurred at varying intervals, but we endured faithfully to now. And so we are preparing to move into another year.
Suddenly, every moment is consumed with the desires of our hearts tumbling out on the table to be examined and considered. Opportunity, opportunity, everywhere opportunity, but which do we seize? Our spirit is willing but our flesh is not convinced. Our weaknesses seem to outweigh our strengths, at least in our minds, and foreboding questions invade our determination.
Throughout the past year, it was God who guided us through the potholes of life and brought us safely to this present day. Despite the news, despite the health issues, despite the accidents, despite the troubles, despite the economy and all such obstacles, God made it possible for us to arrive here today. He began 2010 with us and He is still with us today.
When we compare the beginning with the end — the struggle and challenges of facing the fog and the clarity of hindsight — a striking conclusion emerges: we can be confident in God’s faithfulness. Even though we walk through this veil of tears, even though the shadow of death stalks us God is with us! We are confident for the new year because he took care of the old one.
Dear Father, thank you for your faithfulness in guiding and keeping us. Empower us with confidence to achieve all your purpose as we entrust our lives and the new year into your hands. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today and confident in God,