Friday, December 14, 2018

Reflecting Back on 2018




By: Sarah Geringer


As each year draws to a close, I take one day to reflect on the past year and learn from it.

Every year is full of both blessings and sorrows. Challenges and joys. Setbacks and accomplishments. I take time to reflect and thank God for how much he has taught me in the past 12 months.

I've got a naturally reflective personality, but maybe you don't. Today I'll share my tips for how to reflect on 2018 so you can see how much your faith has grown. 

Here are three simple ways to reflect on 2018:
1. Go through the photos on your phone. As you look at the photos, remember the moments when you took them. Think about your feelings and what you were doing at the time. Use these moments to offer God thanks and praise.
2. Scroll through your social media posts. You may be surprised at how much has changed in your life as you survey your social updates. Even if you shared tough things online, dig in deep to look for reasons to praise God anyway.
3. Search your Sent folder. I don't do this very often, and maybe that's why my email storage is usually clogged. But when I take the time to look at my sent emails, I notice my thoughts and feelings that I shared. They usually hint at ways I can give God the credit for all he's done in my life.

Use any of these methods to compile a list of faith milestones for the past year. Then spend 15 minutes alone with God, praising him for everything he taught you along the way.

Moving forward into 2019, make it easier to reflect next December by keeping a gratitude journal. It can be as fancy or as plain as you wish. Simply record several items every day (or at least once per week) to keep track of your blessings. Then you'll be able to flip through it and thank God all over again at the end of next year.

While you are reflecting, meditate on these verses:

I will study your commandments
    and reflect on your ways.

16 I will delight in your decrees
    and not forget your word.
Psalm 119:15-16 NIV




I hope you find many reasons to praise God for the ways he worked in your life in 2018. 

May God grant you peace and blessings in 2019!

If you want to share feedback on this post, please leave a comment below. You can always share at my site if you have any trouble leaving a comment here.

If you enjoyed this post, please share on your favorite social media site using the buttons below.


Have a wonderful weekend!

Blessings and God's peace to you,



Photo from Canva.com

Reflection questions:


1. Which method will you use to reflect on your 2018 blessings?


2. What time on your calendar for the next week is best for 15 minutes alone with God?



1 comment:

  1. I love the idea of creating a list of faith milestones using the reminders left by social media and photos! I may use that idea in a blog post for my readers only have them do it for their marriage milestones of faith! I'll be sure to credit you if I do😀

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for stopping by, we love hearing from you. Please feel free to contact us with any prayer requests or questions by commenting below or emailing us at the About Us page.