January 2 Daily Devotional

Bible Verse

"He knows the way that I take" (Job 23:10).

Devotional

As untested, unexplored, and unknown as your future path may be, every single step of it is mapped, arranged, and provided for in the everlasting and unchangeable providence of God. To him who leads us, who accepts us in the Son of his love, who knows the end from the beginning, it is no new, or uncertain, or hidden way.

We thank him that while he wisely and kindly veils all the future from our reach, all that future—its tiniest event—is as transparent and visible to him as is the past. Our Shepherd knows every winding way along which he skillfully, gently, and safely leads his flock. He has traveled that way himself, and has left the traces of his presence on the road. And as each follower advances, the new path unfolding at each step, he can exultingly exclaim, "I see the footprint of my Lord; here went my Master, my Leader, my Captain, leaving me an example that I should follow in his steps." Oh, it is a thought that abounds with strong comfort! It is well calculated to gird us for the coming year! The Lord knows and has ordained each step of the unmarked path upon which I am about to enter.

Another reflection. The infinite forethought, wisdom, and goodness which have marked each step of your new path, have also provided for its every necessity. Each requirement in the history of the new year has been anticipated. Each need will bring its appropriate and adequate supply. Each perplexity will have its guidance. Each sorrow will have its comfort. Each temptation will have its shield. Each cloud will have its light. Each affliction will suggest its lesson. Each correction will impart its teaching. Each mercy will convey its message of love. The promise will be fulfilled to the letter, "As your days, so shall your strength be" (Dt. 33:25).

How good is the God we adore,
our faithful unchangeable Friend!
His love is as great as his pow'r,
and knows neither measure nor end!

'Tis Jesus the First and the Last,
whose Spirit shall guide us safe home,
we'll praise him for all that is past,
and trust him for all that's to come.

(Joseph Hart, 1759)

Be sure to read the Preface by Octavius Winslow and A Note from the Editor by Larry E. Wilson.

Larry Wilson is an ordained minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. In addition to having served as the General Secretary of the Committee on Christian Education of the OPC (2000–2004) and having written a number of articles and booklets (such as God's Words for Worship and Why Does the OPC Baptize Infants) for New Horizons and elsewhere, he has pastored OPC churches in Minnesota, Indiana, and Ohio. We are grateful to him for his editing of Morning Thoughts, the OPC Daily Devotional for 2025.