No doubt about it—we live in a world of challenge and change. Life can be scary. Looking ahead to a new year can be both exciting and terrifying. And there’s no better place to look for comfort and guidance than the Bible.
There is a passage in the 41st chapter of Isaiah that I often turn to in difficult times. It’s part of the 13th verse: “I am the Lord your God. I am holding your hand, so don’t be afraid.” Now the great thing is that if the Lord your God is holding you by the hand, you’re not going to stray off the track. You are not going to get into a mess; you’re not going to destroy yourself. You’re going to go ahead successfully. And why not? Your “help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2). The God of infinite power and wisdom not only stands beside you, he’s on your side! “The LORD watches over you… he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (Psalm 121:5, 7-8).
By the time Jesus had been dragged off by the Roman officials and crucified, his band of followers was a frightened and scattered group. But, after his resurrection, Jesus gathered these disciples around him once again, filling them with a zeal that would change the world. And what was his promise to them that rallied their courage? “I will be with you always, even until the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20). The God who loved you enough to die for you is not going to abandon you. Ever!
What is the greatest fact in the whole world? It is simply this: We are not alone. It is the single most important, essential, fundamental fact. So, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because…the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
In this world of change, in this world of conflict, in this world of insecurity, we are not alone. Thank God!
