Introduction

The year 2022 is just around the corner. Some are excited, hoping for the best. Others are anxious, not sure of what would happen. Although many are wishing for a better new year, in reality, no one can really be sure. The only thing we can do is to stand on the promises of God. But which of the promises? And how do we stand on those promises? (2 Corinthians 1:18-20)

Three Faith Decisions

1. Trust in God’s *unchanging character* – His *faithfulness*. (v.18) – The future is uncertain. We do not know what will happen. Speaking positively may just be wishful thinking. Things can change rapidly without warning. What we need to do is trust in God’s unchanging character – His faithfulness – so that whatever happens we know that God will always be true to all His promises.
   [bctt tweet=”Trust in God’s unchanging character – His faithfulness.” username=”rlccphil”]
2. Trust in God’s *eternal Son* – our *Lord Jesus Christ*. (v.19) – We cannot depend on ourselves or on other people. No one is capable of controlling their circumstances or events. Only Jesus Christ is Lord of all. Therefore, we can only depend on Him as we face an uncertain future. In addition, God’s promises are ours only through faith in Jesus Christ.
   [bctt tweet=”Trust in God’s eternal Son – our Lord Jesus Christ.” username=”rlccphil”]
3. Trust in God’s *enduring word* – The *Holy Scriptures*. (v.20) – Situations may change drastically. So do our feelings. But God’s word will endure forever. We must learn to depend on God’s word rather than on our feelings. We must also test our interpretations of circumstances. What we think or what we feel may not always be right.
   [bctt tweet=”Trust in God’s enduring word – The Holy Scriptures.” username=”rlccphil”]

Conclusion

1. Because God is always *trustworthy*, we can always say “*Amen*”.
   [bctt tweet=”Because God is always trustworthy, we can always say Amen.” username=”rlccphil”]
   
2. Being positive or presumptuous is not trusting God. It’s trusting in our circumstances or ourselves.
3. Let’s trust in God’s promises starting today. Let’s know God’s character, His Son Jesus, and His word so that we can grow in confidence.

Discussion

1. What is the usual basis of confidence that people have regarding the future?
2. What happens when people’s expectations do not materialize?
3. What is the better way to have a solid hope for the future?