Another year is around the corner and as usual, we look ahead to the new year with hope and expectations of good things to come. For others however, the start of the new year may be a scary and frightening one due to many reasons. It could be a debt due to be repaid or an impending life changing surgery with a 50-50 chance of survival. The bottom line is, the emergence of a new year can be that of hopeful excitement or terrifying expectations.
For Christians however, we have a sure foundation. Isaiah 33:6, “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure”. As I look back into the outgoing year, one re-occurring decimal has been the faithfulness of God to me and my family. We went through times of intense pressure and anxiety as well as times of joyful celebration. What this has produced in us are hearts filled with gratitude for the comfort and encouragement He gave during the tough times and coming through for us leading to a time of rejoicing and celebration.
I have since discovered that one way of hopefully looking forward to the new year is to review the outgoing year and be reminded of the foundation of our hope. God didn’t just promise to be with us, we actually saw evidence that He was really with us. I am sure like me, you had your moments of ups and downs but you are here today. Jesus Christ has been our sure foundation. A sure foundation is one that is solid and reliable and able to stand the test of time. As Christians, we are not immune to the vicissitudes of life but because of our foundation, we can weather the storms and stand strong no matter what happens. Without that foundation, we fall to pieces without hope and fearful of tomorrow.
As we therefore prepare to start a new year, like the Psalmist, remind yourself of what He has done. “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago” (Psalms 77:11) This will re-affirm your hope in His grace and power to uphold you and give you success in the new year.
If you do not have a relationship with Jesus and you think that all you have read so far seems far-fetched, I invite you to give it a try. Just simply come to Jesus with a simple prayer to reveal Himself to you. Read the Bible starting from the gospel of John to get an understanding of why Jesus came into the world and why He died. I hope that by the time you do this, you will understand why Jesus is a sure foundation.
My prayer for you as you prepare for the new year is taken from Numbers 6:24-26, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
Happy New Year Everyone!
