How solemn is the reflection that with a new cycle of time
commences, with each traveler to Zion, a new and untrodden path. New events in
his history will transpire, new scenes in the panorama of life will unfold, new
phases of character will develop, new temptations will assail, new duties will
devolve, new trials will be experienced, new sorrows will be felt, new
friendships will be formed, and new mercies will be bestowed. How truly may it
be said of the pilgrim, journeying through the wilderness to his eternal home,
as he stands upon the threshold of this untried period of his existence,
pondering the unknown and uncertain future, "You have not passed this way
before."
But there is another thought inexpressibly soothing. Untried,
untrodden, and unknown as that new path may be, it is each step mapped and
arranged, and provided for in the everlasting and unchangeable covenant 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 minutest event, is as transparent and visible to Him as the past.
Our Shepherd knows the windings 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 his steps." Oh! it is a thought replete with strong consolation, and well
calculated to gird us for the coming year, the Lord knows and has ordained each
step of the untrodden path upon which I am about to enter.
[Octavius Winslow]
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Joshua 3:4 ... Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore.
Isaiah 30:21 ... And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
John 10:27 ... My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
1 Peter 2:21 ... For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:❤
