New Beginnings 2018

2017 has closed down.
In a short period of time 2017 will be nothing more than a mere memory. All the living. All the chaos. All the blessings. All the angst. Few things will make it through the memory-portal as the year slams shut.
Over the last few days, I’ve been richly embedded in 2017 memories. Some were laugh-out-loud moments. Others tugged at my heart. Then there were those times that highlighted my insecurity or picked at a wound that should have healed. 
What do we do with all these things? Do we drag them into a new year, a new beginning? I’ve been pondering these things for days. Why? Well, I think it was to get me to this day and read the scripture highlighted in my journal.
“Finally, whatever is true, whatever is pure, whatever is right, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
If anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things. 
You know something, all those memories were priceless, even the hard ones. I think I grew closer to God when life sat me on the edge of a cliff. God certainly taught me a multitude of life lessons while I winced and recited “do not be afraid” a million times. I’m certain He laughed when I wondered “how long”. God knew the exact, perfect moment to ease the tension. I knew it, too.
Come to think about it, I’m going to take all my memories with me into 2018. I wouldn’t give up all the lessons for all the blessings. Every intervention, every wait kept me on the narrow path, following Jesus.
I know life in 2018 will present me with different kinds of confusion, calamity, and chaos, but I’ve had some great training. You know, I’m getting excited about all the opportunities and challenges the new year holds.  
Are you getting your praiseworthy thoughts ready for the upcoming year?
Think about such things.
God bless you, Angela