This first morning of 2014, I woke up after a good night’s sleep (which, incidentally, started at 10:30pm). I fed the dog, got a cup of coffee, and sat down with my One Year Chronological Bible. In all honesty, I started it last year, but didn’t finish it. However, today’s a new day. A new year. A new chance.

I opened it up to the first page and read this:

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

In the beginning.

In the beginning, GOD.

The first words for the first day of a brand new year. Isn’t that all we need?

In the beginning, God.

In the middle, God.

In the hard times, God.

In the great times, God.

In the end, God.

You may have grand plans for 2014, or you may feel unsettled about it. We’re all in different places on this road of life. But wherever you are, no matter what the terrain, or the weather forecast, God is right there in it. You are not alone.

And just like God said over and over in those first few lines of the Bible, I think you’ll see, and agree, that “it is good.”

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1 ESV

“…And God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:10 ESV (and other locations throughout the account of creation in Genesis 1:1-31)

“…And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 NLT

““Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 MSG