Are you emotionally and spiritually prepared for 2019? Sometimes, the thought of welcoming another new year can be unsettling, producing an unwelcome anxiety for many.

Christ-followers, who reflect counter-cultural values, continue to confront and conflict with the preferred and prevailing social norms and reforms. Despite their enthusiasm, many believers perceive our future as uncertain and wonder if our minority influence can persuade secular society to recognize God’s values.

During a time of similar uncertainty, the prophet Isaiah, like many of the other major and minor prophets, foresaw a hope and a future. He chose to focus on and envision God’s sovereignty amid, and despite, his current reality.

Isaiah envisioned the Messiah’s arrivals. First, the Messiah arrives birthed in humanity yet endowed with authority and robed in divinity. Secondly, foreseeing His second advent, Isaiah reiterates that the Messiah’s eternal governance establishes a rule and a society that directs and reflects righteousness, justice, and peace. This is our eternal hope, our future and the focus for all our tomorrows — His kingdom will come.

Amidst our confused, chaotic culture, it is hard to view life through the lens of our current reality. So how do we practically prepare ourselves to confront the ongoing onslaught of social uncertainty?

Remember, God is sovereign. Our unsettling current reality is temporary. God’s eternal plan is promised and preordained. This year, embrace God’s Word as His personal promise. Walk by faith and not by sight. Daily immerse your spirit in God’s truth until His kingdom becomes all our tomorrows.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that I need not fear tomorrow. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight. Help me to live each day life knowing you are sovereign regardless of my concerns or circumstances. I believe your Word and promise to return quickly and to establish your Kingdom. Amen.

Go Deeper — the new year is a time for new beginnings. Submit to God’s Sovereignty over your life. Write down your fears, anxieties, and hopes for the coming year. Apply His promises to your concerns and circumstances.

Read Further — Read Revelation 22 & 23. Let it bring you hope.


Help us make meaningful connections with the prisoner, the widow, the poor, the orphan, and the newcomer as we look to expand the reach of Connecting Streams (a ministry of Power to Change) in Calgary and other communities across Canada in 2019. Your partnership enables our staff and volunteers to share the ultimate gift of a Father who is with us to those in need. There are so many we have yet to meet! (http://p2c.sh/7j)



Tags: Isaiah Isaiah 9
Photo Credit: Toa Heftiba