2020 – God Knew!
At the beginning of 2020, I pulled out my new, clean, empty paged spiritual journal, and prayerfully wrote a “spiritual goal” for 2020. This is what I wrote –
“Persevere in 2020 by knowing and trusting the character of God,
relying on His strength and believing His promises.”
Like many others, I had hopes and goals for the new year. I looked forward to seeing my family, as usual, living a routine, comfortable life, continue teaching the Ladies’ class at church, and speaking at several different women’s events. I assumed life would be “normal” as always. I have to laugh when I read back over what I wrote. Did I know what 2020 would bring? Of course not, but God did.
God knew there would be a pandemic. God knew there would be political turmoil. God knew there would be social unrest. And God knew all of these things would challenge and test my faith.
He knew that I would have to rely on His strength.
He knew that there would be uncertainty and fear and I would have to believe His promises.
During the tumultuous year of 2020, God knew I would have to remember and trust what I know about Him.
Life as I knew it was interrupted in March. The dental office I worked at was closed for 2 months. All of a sudden, I was filing for unemployment. Each event I was scheduled to speak at was canceled. The regular trips to see our daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild came to a halt for a time. At first, I had great confidence that the interruption would be short-lived, (remember “15 days to flatten the curve”?), but as time went on, I realized life would never be the same.
While it was all unexpected to me, it was never a surprise to God. He is all-knowing, all-powerful, and present everywhere. He can never be surprised!
The truth that God is sovereign has sustained me through every uncertain event.
The truth that God is wise and His ways are perfect gave me peace in a world that cannot offer its own peace.
The truth that God is my protector and rescuer enabled me to live a life unworried about what disease could do to me.
The truth that God is compassionate and loving enabled me to feel secure and cared for.
The truth that Jesus died for my sins so that I have eternal life enables me to live without fear of the future.
In 2020, God met me through his Word and assured me of his presence. During the year, I knew I was never alone.
With the truths God revealed to me I could persevere throughout 2020.
2020 is over and 2021 is upon us. While we don’t know what will happen in the year ahead of us, we know that each and every year will present a new set of problems and challenges. But thankfully, even though ever-changing problems and challenges are sure in each year, God never changes. He is certain in an uncertain time. He is always in control and He loves you and me. Knowing this truth, we can face 2021 without reservation or trepidation. Persevere knowing and trusting His character. Persevere relying on His strength. And, persevere believing His promises.
© 2021 Robin R King
