It is fitting as one year ends and another begins to look back and say in the words of Samuel "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us" (1 Sam. 7:12). The One who had promised His people, "Certainly, I will be with thee" has proven Himself to be true to His word and more than sufficient for every circumstance.

Though many times we faltered and failed, He never faltered nor failed us. He remains "Faithful amidst unfaithfulness." His intercession on our behalf has been constant and effective. He anticipated every step of our path, and as we took each step and passed through the varied experiences along the way, we found that He had already gone before us. His presence with us also more than gave us all the strength, shelter and rest we needed. Truly we can say "Hitherto," and also sing "Hallelujah" as we look forward to the new year that stretches our before us.

"Henceforth" is the word of assurance that now comes from our lips in view of the future. It is based upon the "Hitherto" of the past. He who did not fail us in the past will not fail us in the future. We actually look forward with delight to know that our future is in the hands of our gracious Lord. It is "the God of all grace" who has proven Himself to be just that throughout the past year, and He has called us "to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." This glory is the ultimate before us. This is the "Henceforth" that fills the vision of faith.

As we say "Hitherto," we sing: "Thus far by grace preserved, Each moment speeds us on."

As we say "Henceforth," we add: "The crown and kingdom are reserved where Christ is gone."

"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge shall give me at the day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing" (2 Tim. 4:8).

As we see "that day" approaching, let us be as "like unto men that wait for their Lord."