Nearness to God: the ultimate good for 2026

Drawing from Psalm 73, this message confronts one of the most honest struggles we face as believers: the confusion and frustration that comes when we see wicked people prospering while we, who strive to live righteously, seem to have less. The psalmist Asaph openly admits he almost lost his faith watching the ungodly succeed in material wealth and worldly success. But everything changed when he entered God's sanctuary—not just a physical building, but the very presence of God. In that sacred space, understanding flooded his heart, and he saw the final destination of the wicked versus the eternal security of those near to God. This powerful declaration becomes our anchor for the year ahead: 'But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the sovereign Lord my refuge.' The message challenges us to move beyond mere church attendance into daily, intimate fellowship with God—spending time in His presence, studying His Word, and imitating Christ's example. We're reminded that God has already been to the end of this year; He knows every rock that will be placed in our path, every hidden treasure beneath our trials. When we draw near to Him, our tests become testimonies, our messes become messages, and our storms become stories of His faithfulness that we can share with a watching world.