As we launch out into another year

(Arthur Pink, "New Year's Comfort" 1943)

"The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you! He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid - do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

As we launch out into another year, there is little visible prospect of a smooth and pleasant voyage. To the natural eye, the clouds are dark and fierce storms seem imminent. The very uncertainty of what the morrow may bring forth, fills many with uneasiness and trepidation.

But how different should be the state of God's children! An all-sufficient Object is presented to the eyes of their faith, from which unbelief derives no comfort. The poor worldling is concerned with what lies before him - but it is the blessed privilege of the believer to be occupied with Who goes before him - the One who is his Captain, his Guide, his Forerunner. "The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you!" What a difference that makes! O that writer and reader may be enabled to lay hold of this grand Truth as we enter another period of time, and keep it steadily in mind throughout the coming days!  

"Do not be afraid - for I have ransomed you.
 I have called you by name - you are Mine!
 When you go through deep waters - I will be with you.
 When you go through rivers of difficulty - you will not drown.
 When you walk through the fire of oppression - you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
 For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior!" Isaiah 43:1-3