A Hope-filled New Year

Over the past couple days, you’ve probably had a few people wish you “happy new year!” While it’s become a common expression at the turn of the year, we all yearn for a happy 2011. The trouble is, happiness comes and goes with our circumstances. Yes, we hope and pray for more happy times than sad times, but shouldn’t we, as Christians, have perspective that transcends circumstances? The answer is obviously, YES!

As Christians, we do long for happy times, but we have a joy that overrides our circumstances. That joy is rooted in our salvation and assurance of God’s care and presence:

I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Heb 13:5)

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." (John 10:28-29)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13)

“Filled with joy and peace … abounding in hope” … that sounds great! That’s what God wants for His people … and that’s what I want for all of you! Remember, God is greater than any circumstance, and He will lead you through! You may not know the way, but God does … He’s already been there, and He knows the best route! Follow Him!

So, while most people will wish you a happy new year, I wish you a hope-filled new year. May God bless you in 2011.

In His grip,
Pastor Decker