"The eyes of the Lord your God are always on it, from the beginning of the year to the very end of the year" (Deut. 11:12b, NKJV). God was concerned with His people of Israel-not only at the beginning of each new year but throughout the year as well. Throughout this year of 2006, the principle still applies that God is watchful of His people (the church) from the year's beginning to the year's end and all points in between.

Those who have placed their faith and obedience in Christ (Galatians 5:6) are the objects of God's special watch-care. In a unique way, the eyes of the Lord are observant of His children and their condition in life from the opening of the year to its close. Jehovah God takes a personal interest in you and your welfare (physically and spiritually) as you move through another calendar year.

The Hebrew writer asks, "Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14). However it may be that angels minister in the providence of God, the earlier passage from Deuteronomy describes a watchfulness, interest, and care that Almighty God does personally for His people.

Have you ever been sick and called your doctor only to be told he was not on call and another physician would see you? As competent as that other physician might be, your preference would likely be your tried and trusted doctor who is personally acquainted with your health. Rest assured that God is always "on call," attentive with watchfulness and care toward His people. "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry" (Psalm 34:15). Jesus' principle of "askseekand knock" (Matthew 7:7-12) certainly applies here as well. For those who truly love God, He will work out all things for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).

If a fallen sparrow does not escape the Father's notice, and if He knows even the number of hairs on our heads, (Matthew 10:29-30), certainly he is vitally interested in us. Why should we live lives of anxiety and fear? After all, the Lord values us above many sparrows (Matthew 10:31). The Lord is logically reasoning here from the lesser to the greater: if God cares for the sparrow (the lesser), then God cares even more so for His people (the greater). Our Heavenly Father has a special interest in His people.

This wonderful assurance should put a song in our hearts and on our lips: "I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm free, for his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me" (lyrics by Civilla D. Martin, 1906).