Facing the New year with realism, yet hope.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.—Psalm 46:1

Happy New Year! That’s how many of us will greet each other on this first day of a new year. Maybe you’ve already said that to a family member or friend.

But we need much more than a casual howdy as we stand at the beginning of a new year. We need to know that also in this coming year someone greater than any ruler of any nation is in control—not only of our lives but also of the course of history. Psalm 46 reminds us that in the midst of the many uncertainties in life the God of heaven and earth is in complete control.

The psalmist does not make false promises. He does not guarantee that things will go our way. He does not tell us that this new year will bring peace and prosperity. He does not promise the end of persecution and poverty. He makes clear that “nations are in uproar” and there will be desolation and destruction. Nations will fall, and rulers will come and go. But, come what may, God will be in charge. He will be “our refuge and strength.”

How do we know? One week ago we celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus, the day on which the Son of God “moved into the neighborhood.” His coming is our guarantee that God will always be our “ever-present help in trouble.”

Now I know this doesn’t seem to be a happy message but we need to remember that there will be times that are rough just like there are times that are blessed. It’s going into battle the rough times that define our character and going into the battle armed is the best tactic in overcoming the obstacles of life.

I hope this is the best year you have ever had and that the lord blesses you abundantly. If you’re fortunate enough to have a year of nothing but blessings, then help someone who may need you. Happy New year…;)