From advertisements in your social media feed to tabloid magazines at the supermarket checkout line, the self-help headlines at the start of the new year promise an enticing trifecta elixir: more happiness, better health and greater wealth.
But what about navigating a runaway, godless culture that embraces vice over virtue and which champions symbolism over substance, spurning critical thinking for politically correct tropes?
As we shove off into 2022, here are eleven inspired verses from the Scriptures that Christians can cling to regardless of the storms on this year’s sea:
# 1
“Anyone who trusts in Him will never be disgraced.”
– Romans 10:11
As believers, we may feel out of place in today’s upside-down world and for good reason. Maybe the neighbors whisper behind our back because of our family’s size, schooling choice or church attendance. That’s okay. God’s opinion of you is what counts.
# 2
“The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”
– 2 Thessalonians 3:3
It can be daunting to consider the risks of life today – from a virus to foreign enemies who threaten our safety. Take a big deep breath. The Lord is over it all.
# 3
“Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.”
– Isaiah 35:4
Do you often feel outnumbered by the wicked and conniving ways of those who mock the Lord and His ways? Stand tall. Fear not. He is on our side. What a comforting promise of ultimate victory.
# 4
“The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.”
– Proverbs 15:3
There is no time, nor space or place where God is not with you. Be bold. Step out in confidence and He will accompany you wherever you go.
# 5
“God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
– Phil. 4:19
Feeling the pinch of inflation or an unpredictable COVID-economy? Our needs are far more than financial. Bring your cares and concerns to Him, and He will provide.
# 6
“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.”
– Jeremiah 33:3
We often assume tomorrow will be an extension of today – but here we’re warned of our small imaginations and low expectations. When God is involved, anything is possible. Consider what tremendously significant things the Lord might do with you in the coming year.
# 7
“God is not a God of confusion but of peace.”
– 1 Cor. 14:33
If the world seems upside-down and inside out, it’s because the world is rejecting the Lord’s ways. It should confuse us. The apostle Paul’s words provide a practical filter for discerning these curious times.
# 8
“Cast all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you.”
– 1 Peter 5:7
How often do we lament about something but not pray about that very concern? Whatever burden you’re carrying, bring it to the Lord. He cares. He understands.
# 9
“Be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”
– 2 Chronicles 15:7
Wading into the culture can be wearisome and downright disappointing. But we must remember success isn’t always measured in the short-term. “Keep on keeping on” is an effective mantra for those Christians engaging in the public square.
# 10
“The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”
– Exodus 14:14
It’s human nature to want to push and fight back, even exact revenge. But here we’re reminded that God remains our most effective and powerful advocate. Leave your burdens with Him.
# 11
“Everyone who lives in Me and believes in Me will never ever die.”
– John 11:26
Jesus’ words to Martha prior to raising Lazarus from the dead are the ultimate promise for anyone who puts their faith in Him. Today’s fevered pace of living will soon fade for all of us this side of Heaven – but life eternal will go on and on absent all of this world’s frustrations. Eternal life begins now.
The Bible is full of thousands of additional promises – but these are just eleven that can transform your world at the beginning of the new year.
Photo from Shutterstock.
