If the Lord be with us, we have no cause to fear.  His eye is upon us, His arm over us, His ear open to our prayer–His grace sufficient, His promise unchangeable.

From Deuteronomy 31:8:  “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

John Newton (1725-1807) was an English pastor who also was a writer of several hymns, including the beloved “Amazing Grace.”  His early life is filled with contrasts, when compared to his later life.  He served as a ship’s captain during the slave trade, but later renounced his work after his conversion to Christianity.  He became an outspoken opponent of the slave trade later in his life.