Like every year before, 2018 was full of ups and downs, highs and lows, laughter and tears. Regardless of the side the pendulum favored for you, in mere hours we will be saying good-bye to another year.

Adios. Au Revoir. Arrivederci.

And, while we will carry some mess and struggle into 2019, there is something hopeful about starting a new year. A clear ending for a fresh beginning. A reminder to set aside time to reflect upon what has been and dream towards the future of what could be.

For me, 2018 will forever be an Ebenezer–a stone of remembrance. The success of this past year cannot be measured by worldly standards, it can only truly be known in the innermost parts of my being, where the deep work of learning and growth has firmly taken root.

While this past year provided plenty of fun and excitement, it was mostly marked by the waiting. What a blessed relief it will finally be to realize breakthrough, miracle and desires fulfilled.

But it is perhaps when we walk through the hard or sit in the waiting that we truly learn the profound power of being sustained. We see how we are completely and unequivocally sustained in goodness, abundant joy and unconditional love, regardless of our circumstances.

The moments we experienced, now memories we recall, will serve as stepping stones to guide our footing into the unknown of our days ahead.

We cannot control all that will happen in 2019; however, we can choose today the focus with which we will set at its beginning.

I believe the way we start a new year sets the trajectory for the whole.

A common practice is to choose a word to dedicate over the new year. This word can be in leu of making a resolution, or it can act as a companion. But prayerfully choosing a word, or even a phrase, serves as a point of reference to redirect and refocus ones course throughout the year.

I prayed that 2018 would be earmarked by bravery in obedience. As I reflect upon all that happened in 2018 I am able to trace the common thread of bravery throughout.

This year I have two words: RESTORE and RENEW.

• Restore–to bring something back that has been absent.
• Renew–to make like new.

What’s your word or words or phrase for the year? Or, what is your prayer, hope or dream for 2019?

I’d love to hear your thoughts below in the comments. And, maybe choosing a word is not for you. What will you be doing to start the new year off well?

I pray 2019 will be a year where we intentionally choose hope and joy and love.

Happy New Year, friends!