When you get this note it will either be just before Christmas or just after Christmas. It all depends on the mail. If it is before, I wish you a very Merry Christmas filled with the Spirit of God as you acknowledge His incarnation—God with Us—Emmanuel. It is the good news of joy, peace, hope and love. We all can stand to have a little of all those things.
If it comes after, then you know we are now looking at a New Year. I, therefore, wish everyone a happy and blessed New Year. Take the time to reflect on the past year noting all that was good and bad but concentrate on the good. Look to the future without fear in the faith of our Lord who said, “Love the LORD, all his faithful people! The LORD preserves those who are true to him…. Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD” (Psalms 31:23-24)
Everyday I read disturbing articles that spell our warnings concerning our lives for the future. I read of recession, erratic weather patterns, food shortages, rumors of war of the worst type, educational concerns, youth problems and governmental failures. I said they are disturbing but I am not disturbed. I know where my faith lies and the solidity of the force behind it. “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) “Hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:5) Although I understand the realities of life, I cannot live without the hope I find in God. God promises better and as I study His word, I know He is true to His promises.
Yes, I get angry, I get upset, and at times even lose control over all that goes on in this world. But then I remind myself where my true trust lies. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:4-6) “He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:7) “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.“ (Psalm 28:7) These are great verses as we face the New Year not knowing what may come.
So, if it is Merry Christmas, let it be so. If it is Happy New Year, let it be so. My prayer for you is that you be merry and happy know God has got this and we have nothing to fear when we have faith and trust. Until next year….
Be Encouraged,
Ray
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