In God’s Hands

WITH the start of another year, many people become anxious. “What is in store for me in 2013?” they ask. “Will this year be better than last year? What lies ahead for my family, relationships, business, career, studies, health, finances and the like?”

To ease their worries, many consult fortune tellers. Others look at constellations and put their hope on horoscopes. Not a few depend on superstition, charms, tarot cards and divination.

Friends, the good news is that we don’t have to rely on any of these. Why? Because none of them, not even one, is reliable. No human being can ever predict with accuracy and precision what will happen in the future. Secondly, because fortune telling is against the will of God.

Corollary to this good news is the fact that there is one who can be relied on --the great I AM in whose hands our future can be safely entrusted. He is the omnipotent and omniscient God who created everything, who knows everything, and who controls heaven, the earth, and even under the earth. He declared, “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come” (Isaiah 46:9-10).
Making this good news even better is that this all-powerful God is also holy and good. Because of his nature, he will never do wrong, but will always do right. As such he will always be a good Father who gives the best for his children.

Jesus tells us, “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:9-11)

God never let us down in 2012. Out of his faithfulness, he will continue to take care of his flock in 2013. He said, “I am the LORD; I change not” (Malachi 3:6). Truly, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).

Believers do not need a crystal ball to predict and secure their future. Jesus Christ is their security. He is the only true Rock, refuge, protector, defender, fortress, guide, friend, provider, healer and savior.

It will not be smooth sailing throughout the year, but whatever the odds, we are assured of the outcome. Even before the first battle begins, the verdict is certain -- Jesus wins! And therefore, all those who are in him also win! He tells us, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).