A New Year

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you,” Isaiah 43:2a

I’m a grocery store cashier and my customers have been asking me if I’m ready for a new year. When I thought about it, I had to say no. But then in my devotional reading of “Jesus Always,” author Sarah Young urged readers to look back over the past year and remember the times when God had been with them in a very real way. So, I thought about it and I could remember a number of times when I had felt God’s presence. Her point was that He would again be with me in 2025. This helped me face a new year that looks difficult.

My brother has cancer. He’s my baby brother, eleven years younger than me. At the beginning of January, he had extensive surgery to remove the cancer. He came through the surgery very well and was able to go home two days early. My family is grateful for these answers to prayer. But he still faces painful radiation and chemotherapy. Isaiah 43 promises that God will be with us in the new year.

Whatever you are facing in the new year, God promises to walk alongside you.

Prayer: Dear God, we are grateful for this new year of life. Thank you for the many blessings of 2024. Guide us in 2025 to follow you. Thank you that you are always with us in good times and bad times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Nancy Brumbaugh