It was early January back in 1997. My family and I were on holidays – a rare treat for us. We were looking after Kia Ridge, the Baptist Campsite at Tahmoor, south west of Sydney while the Manager was having a break with his family. It was our home away from home as we relaxed once again on over 700 acres of secluded bushland in our five bedroom house with a wonderful in ground pool. It was quite a contrast from our normal life living on a very busy street in Orange and working 80-90 hours a week in front-line ministry whilst raising five young children.
As usual I rose well before the sun did and I recall sitting at the dining room table watching the fog slowly burn away across the grassy paddocks as the first light of day pierced the darkness of the night. I was in a reflective mood as I often was in January each year as I looked back and forward, seeking the Lord’s guidance for the road ahead. I picked up my pen and began to write and what transpired was a song which became very special to me at various points in my spiritual journey and in the journey of the Congregations I have had the privilege of leading over many years. Let me share the words God gave me that day in the hope that they might resonate with you at some point in your journey.
The New Day Dawns
The sun begins to rise, a new day dawns
the morning dew is sparkling on the ground
the darkness of the night is quickly put to flight
as golden beams of light shine all around
As the new day dawns, I leave the past behind
all the disappointments and the pain.
the joys I will cherish, from the tears I will grow
as by faith I journey on in Jesus’ name.
A sense of expectation fills the air
my heart responds as birds begin to sing
just like the potter’s clay, we are given each new day
a precious gift to mould and shape for Him.
As the new day dawns, I leave the past behind
all the disappointments and the pain.
the joys I will cherish, from the tears I will grow
as by faith I journey on in Jesus’ name.
Your mercies are new every morning
Your grace will supply all my needs
yesterday has gone – Lord, help me now press on
to run the race that You prepared for Me
As the new day dawns, I leave the past behind
all the disappointments and the pain.
the joys I will cherish, from the tears I will grow
as by faith I journey on in Jesus’ name.
© 1997 Robert Griffith