Answers for the Issues of Life

​As we approach the New Year, many of our thoughts focus upon what lies ahead. We make our resolutions and set our plans, hope for pleasant days and prosperous circumstances, dream of achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.  For the most part, we are aware that the future is unknown and has the potential to bring the unexpected, unanticipated, and unpredicted. Yet, we desire a new year teeming with victories and fulfilled aspirations. 
 
The news cycles seem to broadcast so many problems and forecast so few promises for successes. Where can we turn to find answers to the issues of life for our future? Are there any absolutes? The Bible stands as a standard which transcends nationalities, generations, societal trends, philosophies and governments. Young and old, rich and poor, educated and uneducated can find solace in the pages of the unchanging, immutable Word of God. 
 
How many parents have found themselves advising their children by saying words similar to, “Believe me, I know, for I’ve lived through it!” These words affirm that the one with the broadest perspective of time and the benefit of previous experience is most likely to have good advice, which is better known as wisdom. Older children advise younger children. Coaches apply experience and training in guiding their teams. Teachers seek to impart accumulated knowledge to their students. 
 
Why? Because in any arena of interaction, we need knowledge and wisdom imparted to us from those whose stations in life are more advanced than our own. Therefore, when dealing with moral and spiritual issues, why should we drop this system that works so effectively in other areas? Is there anyone who qualifies to be our tutor and adviser about these issues of life?
 
God knows the answers to life because He is Life and the author of all living things. Since He is our Creator, He certainly has the insight as to how our potential can be released and our lives can fulfill their God-ordained mandate and destiny. Because He has been around from the beginning, He definitely has a perspective broader and far more extensive than all others. He is the ultimate and final source of wisdom, and He has recorded His wisdom for us in The Bible. 
 
We have a choice – learn for ourselves in the school of trial and error or be taught by one whose wisdom never fails. In a society where the error of our attempts is often all too apparent, may we be a people who say with the psalmist, “Your testimonies are wonderful: therefore my soul does keep them. The entrance of your word gives light; it gives understanding unto the simple.” (Ps.119: 129-130)
 
Happy New Year!