New Mercies Every Morning

At the end of the year and the beginning of another, we wish each other health, prosperity and a happy New Year. Many of us also take a good look at ourselves, identify areas that need to change, and make plans and resolutions to improve our lives.

The new year gives us hope for renewal. But in itself, time alone cannot carry the weight of our hopes. The year may be new, but we and the world we’re living in aren’t getting any newer. If anything we’re getting a year older.

No, our hope is not found in the new year, in ourselves or in our own strength. Where then may we find genuine hope that will not disappoint us? The Scripture invites us to look unto the eternal and unchangeable God, who sustains and renews us by his grace.

    The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
        his mercies never come to an end;
    they are new every morning;
        great is your faithfulness.
    “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,
        “therefore I will hope in him.”
                                     Lamentations 3:22-24.

The Lord is an eternal spring of living water, daily refreshing our soul with his love and mercy. Just like the sun rises every morning, so the Lord renews his goodness to his people and fills our hearts with joy. It is no wonder that the prophet confesses that the Lord is his portion and hope.

Therefore at the beginning of the new year, and every day of our lives, let us trust and hope in the Lord. Then we can face tomorrow with courage and confidence. We do not know the future, but we know the Lord, which is much better. We know that he is good to his people, he keeps his promises, he will never leave or forsake us, and he will bring us safely home.