God’s Faithfulness

I am in transition; I retired at the end of October and moved to the next chapter in the journey God has planned for me. Life is a series of transitions, as they say, change is constant—this applies to each of us and to The Salvation Army. I am reminded that the Army is a movement—dynamic, responsive and united in purpose. We are not static or unchanging but continually working together to outwork our mission: caring for people, transforming lives and reforming society by God’s power.

With 25 years of employment and a further 23 years full-time ministry in The Salvation Army, I see very clearly God’s faithfulness in my life as promised in Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT)—see the opposite column.

As I look back over my life—and I must admit with some reminiscing—I can clearly see that through both the good
times and the challenges, I’ve always experienced God’s promise: that He goes before me, walks with me constantly
and will never abandon me.

There were times in my life when I stood at crossroads, faced with choices that could have been guided by my heart, my head, personal desires, or the lure of perceived gains. Yet, in those times, I chose to come before God and seek His guidance. It wasn’t always clear-cut; I didn’t always receive a distinct answer. That’s where faith and trust come in, listening intently for His nudge or sign, sometimes delivered through someone else God used.

This promise—that God goes before me, is with me and will never abandon me—has sustained me through fear, uncertainty, transition and discouragement. And there have been many. As Christians, we’re not promised an easy or smooth life. But this passage reminds us to find confidence and peace in God’s constant presence, especially in those difficult seasons when doubt and uncertainty surround us. Amidst it all, we hold on to the assurance that God is in control and will guide us through every challenge.

Don’t be dismayed when you think about the present or what you’re walking through right now, because the Lord has gone before you. He’s with you right now, and He’s going to lead you in the future, because He’s already gone before you in that, too. I will strive to be a good, supportive and engaged soldier in my corps (church). As I look back, I thank God for His faithfulness. As I look forward, I trust God with what’s to come. And in the present, I continue to serve God wherever He places me.

Colonel Gerry Walker