God's Goodness

 

Here we are my friends, at the end of 2025.  I am certain that all of us experienced highs and lows during this past year.  Often, I have heard people describe their lives by the year that was ‘awesome’ for them.  They may say, “My best year was 1998,” or “2022 was the year for me!”  I have never been able to do that.  Each year has brought me great experiences and difficult challenges.  With each of those experiences, I have been able to learn something – something that makes me grow as a person.

My biggest lesson learned.  Whether I was standing on top of a mountain or wallowing in the bottom of a valley, my Lord was with me, standing beside me and walking with me through whatever journey I was on.  It is hard to see God’s goodness when we are in the lowest of valleys.  I find myself questioning God when I am in challenging times – can He hear me, can He see me, does not He know what I am going through!  My friends, He does hear us; He does see us; He certainly knows what we are feeling – even without us uttering a word to Him.

The beauty of our Lord is that His purpose is divine.  We cannot see the goodness that may be in store for us as we drudge through the muddiness of difficult moments.  Yet, we can firmly rely on the knowledge that He is with us and will get us to where we need to be. 

Now comes the challenge – think back over this past year.  Run through each month, each week, and see where God was good in your life.  Perhaps that work project that you sunk an incredible amount of time into went well.  Did your child achieve a milestone?  Were you able to make a purchase that you were hoping for (car, home, etc.)?  I can guarantee that there was a moment (probably numerous moments) throughout 2025 where God’s goodness shined.

Now, let us also review 2025 with an eye on the difficult moments.  Was there a loss in your life – a loved one, a job, a relationship?  Did you face a challenge – health issues, financial conditions?  Please know that whatever those difficulties were, our Lord was with you.  He guided you and walked with you.  The outcome may not have been what you or I had wanted, but the Lord guides us to goodness.  If we cannot see it now, we will get the opportunity to ask Him in heaven! 

My friends, reflect on God’s goodness in 2025 – and know that He will be with you as we walk into 2026.  Happy New Year – have simple faith that God is good – all the time!

Video that complements this post:  God's Goodness

God, thank you for your goodness – in good and tough times.  May I always sign your praises.  Amen!