I KNOW NOT, BUT GOD KNOWS…

New Year celebrations are usually big, bold and bright. People dress up and gather together with family and friends to welcome the coming year. It’s meant to be an occasion to celebrate, but I do wonder if there’s anyone who, deep down, doesn’t have any misgivings or fears about what may be ahead for them or their loved ones. I know I do.

We’ve all seen what can happen, unexpectedly and out of the blue. A little chorus we used to sing as children in Sunday school begins ‘What know I of the coming year, or what ’twill bring to me? Whether its close will find me here, or in eternity…’

Looking ahead isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Nor is it pessimistic to make preparation, and certainly not when it comes to making sure all is well for eternity. Life is uncertain, and the wisest thing anyone will ever do is to accept the finished work of Christ on the cross for their sins, to trust Him and be sure of heaven.

For those who are already on the road to heaven, we have the great privilege of having a God who knows more about us and our future than we could ever have any inkling of. 2019 might very well be difficult, but it needn’t be filled with fear. In my last post, I shared a little of the history of Annie Johnson Flint and quoted one of her poems. At the dawning of another year, I’d like to once again use her words to turn your thoughts heavenward, to the God whose greatness is immeasurable, yet who cares so lovingly for His children.

I know not, but God knows;
Oh, blessed rest from fear!
All my unfolding days
To Him are plain and clear.
Each anxious puzzled “why?”
From doubt or dread that grows,
Finds answer in this thought:
I know not, but He knows.

I cannot, but God can;
Oh, balm for all my care!
The burden that I drop
His hand will lift and bear.
Though eagle pinions tire,
I walk where once I ran,
This is my strength to know
I cannot, but He can.

I see not, but God sees;
Oh, all sufficient light!
My dark and hidden way
To Him is always bright.
My strained and peering eyes
May close in restful ease,
And I in peace may sleep;
I see not, but He sees.

Annie Johnson Flint

 

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