In 1520 Martin Luther wrote an exposition of the Apostles Creed.  It preceded his Small Catechism.  The following is from the first article.

I believe in God the Father, Maker of heaven and earth.

I put my trust in no man on earth, not even in myself, nor in any power, skill possession, saintliness, or whatever else may be mine.  I trust no creature, whether in heaven or on earth.  I regard and put my trust in the One, True, Invisible, and Incomprehensible God alone, the Maker of heaven and earth.

I do not take fright at the wickedness of the devil and his band, for my God is above them all.  I believe not less in God even though I am abandoned or persecuted by all men.  I believe none the less, though I am poor, foolish, untaught, and despised, and lacking all things.  I believe none the less, although I am a sinner.  For this my faith must hover above all that is and is not, above sin and virtue and above all things, so that it remains immaculate and pure in God, as the first commandment urges.

Neither do I entreat Him for a sign or token, for I would not tempt Him.  I trust continually in Him, however long He tarries, and I set Him no term nor time, no measure nor means, but in a true and trusting faith I leave all things to His divine will.

Since He is almighty, what could I want, that He would not give or do for me?  Since He is the Maker of heaven and earth, and lord of all things, who will rob me or do me harm?  Yea, why should not all things work together for my good, since I have found favor with Him, to whom they all are subject in obedience?

Because He is God, then, He is able to make all things work for my good.  Because He is Father, He desires to do so and gladly does it…

Prayer for the New Year.

Eternal God, we commit to your mercy and forgiveness the year now just past and commend to your blessing and love the times yet to come.  In the new year, abide among us with Your Holy Spirit that we may always trust in the saving name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.