Life in this fallen, sin-cursed world is packed with trouble and trials. Instead of pretending they do not exist, Scripture faces the hardships of life directly. God initially comforts His people by granting them forgiveness, salvation, and the Holy Spirit. Yet God not only promises comfort to those who follow Him in the future, but also in the trials and difficulties of this present life. IN the most beloved of Psalms, David wrote confidently “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). As we enter a new year, we are reminded that it comes with the hope of things better, but it also comes with the struggles of things unseen. Through all the events that 2022 brings into our life, we can find peace and comfort in the reality that Christ’s presence is always with us. On the night before His death, Jesus addressed the 11 disciples in the upper room, and sought to comfort them in the face of His departure. And tells the disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled, believe in God, and believe also in me.” In the face of discouragement, we need remember, as His children, the Lord is always with us. As we begin this new year, may we etch this truth into our minds, and as we face the obstacles of life, may we remember that we are never alone.
