Well here we are once again! We are on the threshold of a new year. Pretty soon in just a couple of hours it will be 2019. I just got used to writing 2018, and now I’ll have to get used to writing something new. How did we even get to 2019? I still remember approaching the year 2000. Now that’s been 19 years ago. That’s lots of years. How did that happen?

As we close out 2018, I want us to look back at all of the wonderful things that God has done in our lives. Take some time to make a list. If we don’t take inventory of the good, then it will get crowded out by all of the negative things that have happened to us. Be intentional. Make a list of everything whether you think it’s big or small. Keep this handy so that you can review it over and over again in the new year. We need to be reminded of how God brought together every detail in our lives. Celebrate the awesome God He is.

Just as I’ve asked you to remember all of God’s blessings in 2018, I want to challenge you to remember all of those not so pretty places in our lives. Those places that caused great pain and hurt. Now don’t stay here too long because the longer you stay here, the more discouraged and depressed you’ll be. Your pain of 2018 will be the launching pad into the future of 2019. It will show you just how far you’ve come and how much God has done in your life. Celebrate the bad because you made it through. That deserves a big woohoo!

So as we’ve taken some time to look back, it’s also time to look forward into all that 2019 has the potential to be. We are in the process of opening a new chapter in our story. We don’t have a clue what’s in store, but there is one thing that’s certain. If we don’t come into the year with expectancy, then we are already beginning with defeat. God desires you to trust Him with every detail just right ahead. No matter what we’re going to face, when we give it all to God, then He has the ability to take it and make something beautiful out of it.

2019 is staring us right in the face. My prayer for you is that you will have the courage to face what’s ahead. Leave fear behind. Don’t take it with you into this new chapter. There is so much yet to be discovered, so get out there and enjoy all of the marvelous things God has prepared for you. Get ready to make some beautiful memories with loved ones. Step into this year with confidence knowing that God has it all under control.

2019 – The year of God’s blessings and favor.