Being Well-Preserved Through the New Year

“The Lord preserves the faithful
(Psalm 31:23).

We have all heard the expression “well-preserved”, which can refer to anything from an antique in good condition to a person who is ageing well.  As illness and health problems take their toll on our bodies and minds, how does this verse apply to us?

Being preserved involves being protected and kept safe from harm, being treated to last and prevent decay, and being reserved for special use. 

God promises us that He will protect us and keep us.  Although He does not promise freedom from trouble, He does promise deliverance through it (Psalm 34:19).  This includes whatever problems we may face in this new year.

Through Christ, we have the gift of eternal salvation.  Although this temporary earthly body is decaying – and some of us may feel ours is deteriorating quite rapidly! – we have the assurance of knowing that our heavenly bodies and souls have been treated by the saving blood of Jesus and will last forever (I Corinthians 15:53).

As God’s children, we are set apart for special uses which He planned before we were even born (Ephesians 2:10), and He will continue to equip us and work out in us what is pleasing to Him from now through eternity (Hebrews 13:21).

The word “preserve” can also refer to a fruit spread.  Interestingly enough, the difference between jam and preserves is that preserves contain more fruit.  Preserves allow fruit to be enjoyed through all seasons.  As God continually preserves us, we are able to continually display the fruit of His love and faithfulness in our lives to others.

We may not know what the coming year holds for our health or circumstances, but we can be assured that God will preserve us through it all.  Let’s remain faithful in trusting Him to do it.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, as I enter this new year, I know I can confidently face whatever it may hold because You will preserve me through it.  Use whatever challenges that lie ahead to strengthen my faithfulness and testimony of Your power in my life.  Amen.