Each year, Diana and I go through a process to review the prior year, the things we accomplished and the things we didn’t get done. We also set our goals and intentions for the upcoming year. Well, we started our annual review this week. So much did not get accomplished, but there were a couple we did well on—sharing our faith with others, and working more closely with each other in helping sustain marriages. As we look to start a new year, there is one scripture we have kept close to our hearts that has really sustained us throughout 2018 and we know will in 2019. We want to share it with you.

Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything; tell God your needs and don’t forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus.  And now, brothers, as I close this letter let me say this one more thing: Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.
—Philippians 4: 6–8

If we stop the worry, place our thoughts on the good and the positive, and continue to pray, the Lord has promised us a peace to quiet our minds and hearts—a peace that is far more wonderful than we have ever experienced before, a tranquility!

So today, Lord, we give You praise for providing 2018 to us: the good, the challenges, and the learning—and we are excited about upcoming 2019. You are Glorious, Father. You are amazing! Thank You for choosing us to be Your children and showing us the way to experience Your Peace.

Have a Happy New Year.