Happy New Year! As we begin a new year, we share this hopeful greeting with friends and family. At times, however, we may need a little more…more from ourselves as well as the people around us. Perhaps what God told Joshua is just what we all need to hear and to believe.
“Do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
As Joshua was about to lead God’s people into the promised land, he had reason to be afraid. He had an enormous task ahead of him, and he was well aware of the dangers that he and the people would soon be facing. He needed God’s encouragement.
Just like the new year may bring up lots of questions for us: Will our health hold? Will our marriage last? Will I be able to hang on to my job? Will I get into the right school? Will the economy improve? Will there be a terrorist attack or some natural disaster that affect me or my loved ones?
The Creator of the universe comes to us and says, “Don’t be afraid; don’t be discouraged.” What happens in this coming year is not left to chance. God is in charge and He promises to stay close: “The LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Many years later, the Lord Jesus made the same promise when he said, “I am with you always”. That’s the reason we can most assuredly wish each other a “Happy New Year!”
So, let’s be thankful for the gift of a new year. Be encouraged and be an encourager to others. May His light, grace, and love shine through each of us!
Many Blessings!
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