When you walk the same uncharted course through the woods every day, eventually that simple repetition of steps creates a well worn path. And what once was a challenge becomes a delight. You’re able to look up from the bramble that you’d previously dodged or cut through to enjoy the view and look ahead a little. You don’t have to watch quite so closely where you place your feet on this now familiar ground.
I have a couple of important announcements at the bottom of the post. Be sure to read through.
I hope that is how this spiritual discipline of meditating on and memorizing scripture is beginning to feel to you: like a well worn trail on a sunny spring day. I hope the ground is beginning to level out a bit so the journey feels less like work and more like an enjoyable exercise that feeds your soul and lifts your spirits.
But even if you’re still whacking at the weeds of busyness or trying to get your footing on this pathway, be assured that you are getting somewhere. I guarantee you, by the authority of God’s Word (see below), that you will look behind you on December 31, 2023, and see that you have indeed gained ground and the view is much improved.
For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
And do not return there without watering the earth
And making it produce and sprout,
And providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;
So will My word be which goes out of My mouth;
It will not return to Me empty,
Without accomplishing what I desire,
And without succeeding in the purpose for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:10,11
No, that’s not my scripture for the next two weeks. It’s a freebie! But Isaiah 55:10-11 is one of my favorite promises in God’s Word.
But as we move into our 8th scripture passage to add to our albums, I’m choosing a scripture of conviction. I came across this passage in my daily Bible reading recently and it tugged at my heart all day.
The part of the verse that most intrigues me is “be on your guard against every form of greed.” Any time I see a warning like this I ask the Lord to search my heart and expose any errors in my ways of thinking or doing. You know, we can get so comfortable with the way we are that we don’t even notice how wrong we are! I don’t want to be that woman.
So I’ll be asking the Lord that question every time I read or recite Luke 12:15. “Lord, is there a form of greed that has taken root in my life?” Then I’ll undoubtedly do a little wrestling with whatever He may point out. But ultimately I hope to rid myself of any greediness that is preventing me from being truly useful to Him or from glorifying Him with my life.
I look forward to reading your selection for the next two weeks, as well. Please know that I read every comment. Thank you for sharing this journey with me.
PS – I wanted to share with you that my husband James has begun a podcast called Discover the Bible. James is an excellent verse-by-verse expositor of the Bible, and he is currently preaching through the book of Judges. You can check it out HERE or wherever you listen to podcasts. His Easter message was especially excellent, but I’m also enjoying our walk through Judges.
Two more big announcements: April has 5 Sundays, so the next Scripture Meditation post will be May 7th. Also, I’d like to host a Virtual Scripture Meditation & Memory Challenge Fellowship on Sunday evening, May 21, at 5 p.m. EDT. We’ll try to record it and make it available on YouTube (privately) for those of you who may miss it. I know we can’t possibly come up with a time that works for everyone, but I think this is our best bet.
Proverbs 12
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
but whoever hates correction is stupid.
Hi Ladies .. I believe in the power of prayer. Two weeks ago I asked for prayers for my brother-in-law George. You kindly answered that call and I’m happy to report that although still on the ventilator, George has made wonderful progress. My thanks to all who prayed and a special thank you to Kay for providing this forum and to those who left me a personal comment or prayer. It lifted my spirit and my family’s.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
– 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
So so pleased to hear that news Frani ❤️❤️Love to George and you and All your Family Xx
Thank you Kym 💕
I’m so happy to hear of George’s progress!!
Thank you Melanie. George continues to make progress. Frani💕
Good news Frani. Our Lord is wonderful. Continued prayer for George and family.
Thank you for your prayers Sherry. Our God is good & George continues to improve. Frani 💕
Frani,
Praise our Lord and Savior for his mercies. Thank you for George’s update and know that I’m praying for you all now. May you continue to be blessed by your faith and may God’s healing power give you peace.
Thank you for your kind words & prayers, Karen .. they are greatly appreciated. 💕
Save me from my enemies, O Lord I run to you to hide me. Help me to do your will, for you are my God. Lead me in good paths for your spirit is good.
Psalms 143:9,10
The scripture you shared in Isiah hit home with me. I’m going to study it, and commit it to memory. Later this week I am looking forward to listening to James’ podcast – I love verse by verse studies!
Thank you Kay, and thank you all, knowing my sisters are walking this walk with me is beautiful.
“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or understand, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.”
Ephesians 3:20-21 LSB
I need to focus on the fact that the Holy Spirit is inside me and that gives me power.
Acts 17: 26,27 (ESV)
And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave.
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
I am going to meditate on this one also! And I am praying for wisdom of what to do job-wise… I took a break from being a nurse but am thinking of going back part-time. Would appreciate you-all’s prayers! Thanks!
❤️Xx
🙏
Did the same and love it, Karen-praying God helps you on the path He has for you.
But He said to me: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV
“A sound heart is the life of the flesh: But envy the rottenness of the bones.” Proverbs 14:30
This verse really spoke to me about envy. Envy produces nothing good in your spiritual body or walk with the Lord. I want to have a sound heart that trusts in the Lord. He will bring me life. Envy sure sneaks in on me at times.
Allison
Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Hebrews 13:15-16.
I am the Lord.The God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for Me? Jeremiah 33:27 NIV
“Whoever eagerly seeks good searches for good will, but whoever looks for evil finds it.”
Proverbs 11:27 GW
Continuing with memorizing James 1.
8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:
10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.
Kay:
Thank you for taking the time to present this memorization challenge. It had been many years since I had memorized any scripture. This was the push needed to get me back to memorizing. Thanks so much.
Kendra
I’m working my way through Psalm 34 and the next few verses are:
Come, my children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
12 Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,
13 keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from telling lies.
14 Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.
Hi There it’s Kym from the UK . Loved your Scripture today Kay and it had made me think too , on what areas of my life I am greedy in . I have been listening to James podcasts and yes he is an excellent speaker. I like the sound of the Virtual Scripture May 21st and so pleased you will put it on Youtube privately , as I don,t know how many hours you are either behind or in front of us in the UK I must check as it’s probably quite a few. Here is my Scripture for this week 8.
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness.
GALATIANS 5:22 (NLT).
I am choosing Hebrews 12:1b-2a this time. It says, Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus. I chose this because a part of my life is taking an unexpected path and I need to remember that God is making that path a good one for me.
❤️Xx
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings, and all who are in authority that they may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
Psalm 63:8
My soul clings to you;
your right hand upholds me.
Daniel 6:26(CSB)
He is the living God, and he endures forever; his kingdom will never be destroyed, and his dominion has no end.
We have a big family event on May 21, but I’ll be sure to watch the recording.
Psalm 51:17
The way to please you is to be truly sorry deep in our hearts.
This is the kind of sacrifice
you won’t refuse.
Contemplating English Version
Kay,
I love the visual you present that memorizing scripture is like forging a path through the brambles, and consistently walking that trail makes it easier, more delightful. Good word picture.
I have finally accomplished Psalm 40 9-10 and am on to verse 11 (which I think I said I was going to do a few weeks ago but those couple of verses kept tripping me up and I had to take time to whack down some more brambles and make the path a little clearer)
V11: Do not thou, O Lord, withhold thy mercy from me, let thy steadfast love and thy faithfulness ever preserve me!
Your verse really spoke to me so I am going to be focusing on it this time.
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 While we are not an exciled people, we still need the hope given to us in Jesus. I love the old hymn, Great is Thy Faithfulness.
That is one of my favorite hymns too. I often listen to it while getting ready for my day.
Hello everyone. 21 May is in my diary. I am in the UK but am a night owl so will hope to make it!
Kay’s verse is challenging. I came across another such one from Luke this week and will be contemplating and memorising this:
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart…For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Luke 6:45 NIV
Good morning scripture warriors!! Here is what I’m committing to heart this week:
Col. 3:23-24: “Whatever you do, do it from the heart; as something done for the Lord and not for people, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord.
Hope to “see you all” on May 21st!
Hello from Barb in KY. I, too, enjoyed your simile regarding our biblical journey as compared to a physical journey. So very true for me. The path is becoming easier and clearer. Thank you for this journey, Kay, and this observation.
This week I am taking a pause from my strength and peace verses and choosing this one. My heart needs to remember to sing this every day!
Psalm 118:24
This is the day the LORD has made;
let us be glad and rejoice in it. NABRE
I will memorize the same scripture Kay! Wonderful words of wisdom!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him; and he shall direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5,6 (NKJV)
Phillipians 4:8. ” Whatever is true, worthy of reverence, honorable, seemly, just, pure, lovely and lovable, kind, winsome, gracious. If there is any virtue and excellence and worthy of praise, think on, weigh, take account of these things ( fix your minds on them).”
The verse I would like to work on is Psalms 118:25. Lord save us! Lord, grant us success! NIV
Psalm 23
I memorized the King James translation many years ago but I am getting a fresh word from NIV and NLT translations.
Luke 12:15 (NIV) Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
I have chosen your scripture, Kay. Really speaks to me today.
Kay, your choice of scripture for BFMD on April 13/23 resonated with me. Luke 9: 23-24 (MEV)
Then He said to them all, “If anyone will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up the cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever will save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.”
Your guidance is most helpful. To ask the Lord to search our hearts and expose any errors.
I agree. I do get comfortable with the way I am and don’t notice what I am doing wrong. Then…the Lord points it out to me in scripture and I feel ashamed, but willing to change. Maybe not immediately, as it will take His support and guidance to do so.
I will listen to James’ podcast. I do enjoy learning the Bible verse by verse.
Everyday God blesses us with “gifts”. It is important for me to acknowledge it, remember it.
“Give thanks to the Lord, invoke his name.
make known among the peoples his deeds!
Sing Praise, play music; proclaim all his wonderous deeds!
Glory in his holy name; rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord!
Rely on the mighty Lord, constantly seek his face.
Recall the wondrous deeds he has done, His signs and his words of judgement.”
Psalm 105:1-5
“Then He said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” Luke 12:15 NLT
I decided to go with the scripture you chose! However, I’ve chosen to learn the KJV.
Isaiah 55:10-11 KJV
For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
I have been on a healing journey for years. This past week we finally got some insights that may turn everything around! So my verse for the next 3 weeks will be, “Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.” Jeremiah 17:14 KJV
❤️Xx
That’s good news Jenn .. prayers said for your healing.
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing; 18 in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
“For I the Lord your God, hold your right hand; It is I who say to you, “Fear not, I will help you”
Isaiah 41:13
During the most crisis filled times in my life I pictured Him holding my hand as I prayed for comfort, not realizing He promises to do so in His word. ❤️
Psalm 147:1 (NKJV)
“Praise the Lord!
For it is good to sing praises to our God;
For it is pleasant, and
Praise is beautiful.”
Philippians 3:8 Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.
I noted this verse this week and was happy to see it on one of your daily posts. I worry and have such anxiety that it causes my son to worry.
Luke 12:25 & 26
And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life’s span?
If then you cannot do even a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters?
I am going though a really rough time at work… and this verse is convicting to me:
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.
Hebrews 13:17
Hope your rough time at work ends soon with a good result for you ❤️Xx
That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. I Corinthians 2:5
Psalm 56:3. What time I am afraid I will trust in thee.
Hello from Vancouver BC. I have chosen the same verse as Barb R. I need to remind myself that whatever trials and challenges each day brings (in everything from the weather to my outfit of the day to preserving relationships), each day is a gift.
“This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 119:24. KJV
P.S. Although there are many fine translations and transcriptions of the Bible, I stick to the King James Version, because it’s the one I grew up with and with which I’m most familiar.
Nehemiah 13:25
Nehemiah confronts the men of Judah for sinning against God. He curses them, beats them, and pulls out their hair! He’s so angry that they have sinned against God when in Nehemiah 9:38 they have signed and sealed a document to obey the Lord.
Daily I repent, only
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned. The flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:2-3a (NIV)
Psalm 103:1-5(NIV) “Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits-who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagles.”
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV
There is so much going on in the world today that can invoke fear: crime, civil unrest, war, etc. It would be easy to become a victim of fear given the state of the world today. This verse reminds me that fear is not of God. We need to trust in God’s promises and be strong and of good courage. He is with us and will never leave nor forsake us. Through Jesus we have the promise of eternal life. Satan and the world cannot take that from us.
Yes, Marla, I agree and l love the verse you selected.
Sherry. From Minnesota Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, Baptizing Them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. NASB
Thought this was appropriate since we just celebrated the resurrection of Jesus last Sunday.
So happy to read about Frani’s brother-in-law George, that prayers are being answered and he is improving. Thanks you God.
“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Hebrews 6:10 KJV
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father.”
James 1:17
1 Col 16 is what I will work on!! For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things have been created through Him and for Him!
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him.
Good friends recently lost their son unexpectedly in an accident, and I have looked for this verse often. Time to memorize it. Thank you, Kay.
Matthew 8:7
And Jesus said unto him, “I will come and heal him”.
Linda from Georgia
Romans 8:1 There is therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
Ephesians 5:14 – Awake, sleeper,
And arise from the dead,
And Christ will shine [as dawn] upon you and give you light.”
I came across this little poem while studying Ephesians and loved the message of hope.
Here’s mine:
And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you;
seek and you will find;
knock, and it will be opened to you.
Luke 11:9 ESV
This is a good one for me, because sometimes I’m afraid to ask for things. So this is a good reminder that God wants to give good gifts to His children & I shouldn’t be afraid to let him know all of my hopes & dreams.
Like others, I had also chosen Psalms118:24 because I’ve been feeling the need to get my days off to a more spiritual, productive, grateful and joyful start:
“This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering to the slaughter. Proverbs 24:11 NIV
I has never read this verse before until recently. It causes me to think more seriously about the necessity of sharing our faith.
1 Timothy 4: 7,8 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
Where do I stumble across irreverent, silly myths? Most of the feeds that come through my phone. And while I am working on losing weight for health and good stewardship of this body God has given me, I don’t want physical training to be an idol. I recently read a book title: Love What Lasts. That’s what I want to focus on – the things that last: my relationship with the Lord, my relationships with other believers; people who come to know Christ through my influence.
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NIV)
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:23-24 NIV
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” ECC 12:13 NIV
Last Sunday I was taking a walk near by neighborhood, when a car pulled up beside me. Inside was a small young woman with a little girl in the back seat. I thought she would ask for directions, but no, God had put it on her heart to tell me to read my Bible. She gave me her testimony about how God had made a difference in her life, and she wanted me to make sure I was reading my Bible and following God’s word. I thanked her for following God’s direction and assured her I would. Then, having delivered God’s message, she drove off.
I pondered that encounter all week. Obviously, I would have to choose a verse about God’s word! There are so many great ones. Which to choose? Then Kay introduced week 8 with Isaiah 55: 10-11 and that seemed like a sign to me.
“10 For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return there without saturating the earth and making it germinate and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat,
11 so My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to be..”
Wow!! What an encounter!!
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Thessalonians 5: 16-18 KJV
Hi from California! 2 Samuel 22:2-3 NKJV
“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; the God of my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my
Savior.”
I have been worried about so much lately, mostly work related, so I chose a verse that would remind me that I should not worry so much!
BUT THOSE WHO HOPE IN THE LORD
WILL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH.
THEY WILL SOAR ON WINGS LIKE EAGLES; THEY WILL RUN AND NOT GROW WEARY,
THEY WILL WALK AND NOT BE FAINT.
ISAIAH 40:31
The Book of Revelation mentions the “Overcomers” numerous times, Here is a key verse on how to be an Overcomer:
“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, ‘Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, he who accuses them before our God day and night
.
And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.” Revelation 12:10-11 NASB
Proverbs 14:29 NLV
“Those who control their anger have great understanding; those with a hasty temper will make mistakes.”
Proverbs 15:1 NLV
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger.”
He replied, “Blessed rather, are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
Luke 11:28 NIV
Philippians 4:4-6, Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (NASB)
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 (NASB)
My Life Group at church is beginning a study called “The Mind of Christ.” This is the first memory verse in our study.
Continuing on with Psalm91:13-14
They will bear you up in their hands, that you do not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and cobra, the young lion, and the serpent you will trample down. Because he has loved me, therefore, I will deliver him. I will set him securely on high because he has known my name.
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14
Kay,
Staying with verses of conviction, I am choosing Psalm 139: 23-24 (NIV).
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
I remember a old hymn based on this verse. Hymns are part of my spiritual heritage and music is a great way for me to learn scripture.
Blessings
Hebrews 12:1-2a will be my Scripture this time. I deeply need help with setting aside distractions that are robbing me of precious time and energy that needs to be invested in more productive and lasting things. I pray the Holy Spirit will use these verses to help me break these less-than-the-best “entanglements.”
Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything.
Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
Philippians 4:6 (NLT)
My scripture verse is Proverbs 18:10
“The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.”
Once again, I have chosen to go with Kay’s scripture choice. I, too, want to guard against greed in my life and am grateful for Jesus’ words in this verse.
Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.”
According to J. R. Miller commenting on this passage, “…A man is really measured by what he is, not by what he has.”
Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying,”I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life. John 8:12.
Psalm 57:7 (NLT)
My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident.
My verse this week is:
“You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, least you incur sin because of him.”
Leviticus 19:17
Psalms 28:7
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart celebrates, and I give thanks to him with my song.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Php 4:6 NLT
2023 has been quite a year so far personally and for my family. I have really been struggling with worry and anxiety. I need to focus on this!
Hebrews 13:16 (CSB)
Don’t neglect to do what is good and to share, for God is pleased with such sacrifices.
Phiippians 1:6 NIV
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
I am comforted knowing that I am a work in progress and that the Lord isn’t through with me yet!
My Scripture memory for this week is:
Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me. When you seek me with all your heart, I will be found by you, declares the Lord… Jeremiah 29:12-14a (ESV)
Christ is risen! Alleluia!
Psalm 118:24
”This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalms 27:5
For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.
ESV
“Happy are those who find wisdom, and those who get understanding, for her income is better than silver, and her revenue better than gold.” Proverbs 3:13-14 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 13:1 (ESV)
“ If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.”
I chose this verse as I work through developing a much deeper understanding and application of what 1st Corinthians means.
1 Corinthians 15:3-4
For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.
Proverbs 3:3-5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.
Praying earnestly for the Lord to direct every step to bring freedom.
John15:5
I am the vine, you are the branches.
He who abides in me and I in him,
He bears much fruit.
For apart from me you can do nothing.
Deuteronomy 7:9
Know then, that the Lord, your God, is God: the faithful God who keeps covenant mercy to the thousandth generation toward those who love Him and keep His commandments.
Today is Divine Mercy Sunday in the Catholic faith.
enjoyable exercise that feeds your soul and lifts your spirits
Yes! That is how it feels. I have several versus that have come to me over the past few weeks that i have recorded to add to my memorization list. This weeks is Isaiah 19:25. Thank you for the challenge. It does feel good to be saving God’s words to my heart.
Psalm 34 v 8 says “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; Blessed is the man that trusts in Him”.
I see a call to spiritually get a taste of the goodness of the Lord regularly. We find that doing so on a regular basis does in fact bless us in so many beautiful ways.
So get a taste of Him this morning, and be blessed by His goodness!
“BLESSED ARE THEY THAT MOURN FOR THEY SHALL BE COMFORTED” MATTHEW 5:4
I just read a book called THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE BY ANDREW DOERR. A heartbreaking story that is set in the time of Hitler and the war in Germany and France. It had a profound effect on me and I felt so sorrowful about the atrocities that humankind can inflict on each other. In a devotion I read by Richard Rohr he speaks of mourning and sorrow as a type of prayer that is often overlooked in the Christian community, called lamenting. There is a whole book in the bible named for it called Lamentations. There is comfort that God knows of our sorrows.
Reading through others verses from this group, I came across another verse we used to sing at my home church growing up. Isaiah 40:31. 🎶They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk,and not faint.🎶 Teach me Lord,teach me Lord to wait🎶. By the way,most of these scripture verses were sung a cappella.
Thank you Kay, this has been a very fulfilling journey. As I have been learning my weekly verses the 23rd Psalm came to mind. Many of us learned it as children. I assumed it would be easy to recite and was dismayed that I could no longer do so. I am selecting the 23rd Psalm this week as a refresher to remember a long cherished verse.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23 ESV
Matthew 6:19-21
Some people store up treasures in their
homes here on earth. This is a shortsighted practice—don’t undertake it. Moths and rust will eat up any treasure you may store here. Thieves may break into your homes and steal your precious trinkets. Instead, put up your treasures in heaven where moths do not attack, where rust does not corrode, and where thieves are barred at the door. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Therefore my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV
My heart is confident in You, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises! Psalm 57:7
This was in my daily reading and resonates because we are walking through a season of health issues…. My confidence is in God, not the doctors, He will guide and direct us and the physicians….
Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8 NIV
I always have trouble remembering all of the fruit from the Holy Spirit so I will memorize Galatians 5:22.
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
Vicki, a few years ago I was having physical therapy for a frozen shoulder and some of the movements were to be done like 50 times. I would loose track counting! To help me keep track, I would recite the fruit of the Spirit and finish each set of 10 with 1, 2, 3 or whatever the number of that set was. It certainly helped to pass the time!
My verse for this time is “Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” Psalms 103:2 NLT
I had a bible verse picked out for this week, but when I read the verse you shared (Luke 12:15), I knew that was the verse the Lord wants me to memorize and meditate on.
Then he said the them, “Beware and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has abundance does his life consist of his possessions. Luke 12:15
Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfector of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right of the throne of God.”
Greetings from Northern Alberta, Canada
Psalm 103:1-2 NLT
Let all that I am praise the Lord. With my whole heart I will praise his holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord. May I never forget the good things he does for me.
Over Easter weeks I have been reading Psalm 103 and 104 out loud each day as a worship to the Lord. It has been a blessing to me to have a different thought or verse stand out to me each time I read it out loud. I memorized this years ago in the KJV but I’m finding it new and fresh in the NLT.
Hi! This is Patti from Iowa! My memory verses for this time are Psalm 139:23, 24.
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Our Pastor spoke on Psalm 139 and these verses stuck out to me. I am convicted. Praying over these and applying them to my life in the next couple weeks and beyond.
Matthew 22:37
Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
Luke 12:43. Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he comethshall find so doing.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
Isaiah 40:29 NIV
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
This scripture is encouragement to me as a care giver and let’s me know that God is with me and here to help me when I get weary.
Hello Ladies, I recently started a study called “Our Father In Heaven… Teach Us To Pray”, by Cassandra Martin. This is my second time through this study.My first time was in a ladies bible study last year. It was so good I want to go through it again, this time on my own. Luke 18:9-14 are some of the scriptures discussed, the parable of the Pharisee and tax collector. I desire to have the attitude of the tax collector that is why I chose Luke 18:13.
“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast, and and said “God have mercy on me a sinner.”
Thank you Kay for starting and leading this challenge and to all the women participating! What a joy and encouragement!
I’ll be doing your scripture verse this week, Kay. I think that is something the Lord has been prompting me to do. Thank you!
James 1:20 For man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
Paalm 84:10 “For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God then dwell in the tents of eickedness.”
Psalm 118:24
This is the day the LORD has made;
let us be glad and rejoice in it.
The teaching yesterday was about resolving in advance using discernment so I don’t have to keep deciding what to do repeatedly. (Decision Fatigue!) Daniel 1:8
8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
Lamentations 3:22-23
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.
This has long been a very special verse to me! Matter-of-fact, some days one can even be tempted to “go to bed early” just to get myself outta my misery and await the new day’s mercy!!! This is a verse I think about often and even refer to conversationally, but I’ve never actually memorized it, so I want to change that!!
Matthew 5: 3-6
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
A challenge for me to memorize Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, as His blessings are unbelieveable..the world can not compare.
I was traveling all day yesterday, so I’m joining in today. In keeping with my word for the year, victorious, Hebrews 4:15 is my chosen verse.
For Jesus is not some high priest who has no sympathy for our weaknesses and flaws. He has already been tested in every way that we are tested; but He emerged victorious, without failing God. [Voice]
Previous verses
7) Zechariah 9:9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” [NIV]
5&6) I Cor 9:24 You know that in a race all the runners run but only one wins the prize, don’t you? You must run in such a way that you may be victorious.
I Cor 9: 25 Everyone who enters an athletic contest practices self-control in everything. They do it to win a wreath that that withers away, but we run to win a prize that never fades. [ISV]
4) Romans 8:37 But in all these things we are completely victorious through God who showed his love for us. [ISV]
3) Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will rejoice over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. [NASB]
2) Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will help you; I will uphold you with My victorious right hand. [TLB]
1) Psalm 89: 15-17 How blessed are the people who worship you! O LORD, they experience your favor. They rejoice in your name all day long, and are vindicated by your justice. For you give them splendor and strength. By your favor we are victorious. (NET)
i have chosen a longer passage that I intend to use over the this and the next time:
He is the image of the invisible God.
the firstborn of all creation.
For in him were created all things in
heaven and on earth,
the visible and the invisible,
whether thrones or dominions or
principalities or powers;
all things were created through him and for him.
He is before all things,
and him all things hold together.
Colossians1:15-17
I’m a day late posting this! My verse for the next two weeks is in keeping with the Easter season these next several weeks:
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!
In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope
through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
–1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)
Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Psalm 63:3-4
Because your love is better than life
My lips will glorify you
I will praise you as long as I live
And in your name I will lift up my hands.
And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment.
1 John 3:23
This morning I want to ‘catch up’ for weeks seven and eight.. I’m so sorry ladies that I stepped away from the conversation’ here. This is a wonderful group of women, and Kay I am so grateful for your diligence in this memory and meditation challenge.. I read and take part in Bible studies daily. My husband and I are studying Mark with our church, and I am still working on your “The View From My Front Porch”
Just before week seven I learned that a dear cousin had passed away. My sister flew to St Louis and we drove together to Michigan to spend time with family there, to cry and comfort one another. We all spoke often of the blessings we enjoyed, all raised by Godly parents who loved the Lord, and poured His word into us.. Since then, I’ve been catching up with work, and just didn’t get back here….
So.. for week seven: John 14:1-6. Do not let your hearts be troubled . Trust in God, and trust also in me
And John 14: 6. I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me
For week eight: John 3:16-17. For this is how God loved the world, He gave His one and only son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life. God sent His son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.
Ladies I’ll conclude with a prayer request… I believe God directed me specifically to these verses to prepare my heart and mind to witness and be His light, specifically to my son, daughter-in-law and their children… They have just recently been attending church again. Please help me pray that God will draw their hearts to Him.. please pray that my husband and I can be God’s instruments to show them the way. Thanks you all
Lots of Love and Prayers for you ❤️Xx.
My verse is Galatians 5:16-18
“But I say, walk by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.””
Luke 1:37 NIV. For nothing is impossible with God.
This one is short and sweet, but it is in line with my other scriptures so far: I am trying to build my faith and trust in God.
If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Galatians Chapter 6 verse 3
John 16:33 NIV
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
In this crazy world, it’s good to be reminded and to reflect on who is in control. God is!
I choose to memorize your verse, Kay, in the NIV version:
Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
My youngest daughter has been struggling with some serious health issues this year. This is the verse and promise that I have been leaning on: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13.
The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8 (NKJV)
Romans 12:16 (ESV)
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.[h] Never be wise in your own sight.
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me. Psalm 13:5-6
I want to remind myself of this when troubles come so often and I get discouraged.
I’m a little late this time. The verse I chose this time speaks to my impatience. 2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9 NASB
Hello – my verse this week will be three verses:
Psalm 119:1-3 Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord.
Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts.
They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths.
I John 4:18-19
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us.
I admit I don’t quite understand all of these verses, but I heard on a Christian television show, If you fear, ask for more love.
I am joining you and meditating on Luke 12:15: Then He said unto them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.” I’ve been praying to be preserved from covetousness, so this is a good fit.
Dear Kay, Thank you for the “freebie”. And I’m going to give some time to your chosrn scripture for the next few weeks. It’s stirring up my mind and heart. Congrats to James on his podcasts! That’s an exciting new chapter! May 21st is on my calendar. ❤️
Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart, with your whole soul, and with your whole mind.” This is the greatest and first commandment. The second is like it. “You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On those two commandments the whole law is based, and the prophets as well.”
Psalm 103 v 3
I will praise you, Lord, among the nations, I will sing of you among the peoples.
Posting this in Leipzig, Germany, just opposite the St Tomaskirche, where Martin Luther preached on Pentecost Sunday. About to return to the UK today.
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
1 Peter 5:8-9
I’m late posting but this is the one I’m working on next: “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.”
Proverbs 11:24 ESV
We have been studying the fruits of the Spirit again; this week focusing on temperance. I am reminded that it is not my own self-control but being controlled by the Holy Spirit. I must be in an position where He can work through me. It isn’t by my strength but my submission to the Holy Spirit. I want to bear fruit for the Lord so I am focusing on John 15:5 KJV “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Psalm 34:3-4
Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord and He answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
God is so good!
PSALM 108:1
My heart is confident, God; I will sing; I will sing praises with the whole of my being.
It has taken some searching for another verse. Nothing I read seemed just right, but finally, I chose one.
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do no be afraid.
John 14:27
My verse for April 16th, John 3:16 NAB New American Bible
God so loved the world that he gave his only – begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
And do not return there without watering the earth
And making it produce and sprout,
And providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;
So will My word be which goes out of My mouth;
It will not return to Me empty,
Without accomplishing what I desire,
And without succeeding in the purpose for which I sent it
Isaiah 55:10-11
I actually like the “freebie verse!”
My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Psalm 119:28 KJV
Your scripture really spoke to me as well. Absolutely appropriate for me right now!! I am going to copy you for this one.
week 8
Trials and Temptations. James 1,:v2-3NIV
I want to focus on trials for this scripture to lift up people going through Trials this week. trials of many kinds.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 NIV
Come, let us bow down in worship,
let us kneel before the LORD our Maker;
for he is our God
and we are the people of his pasture,
the flock under his care. – Psalm 95:6-7
I love this Psalm, as we would sing it as part of the liturgy before services were made more contemporary. It reminds us that God is in charge of taking care of us, and if he is able to make everything, he is certainly the very best caretaker!
Ps. 19:14 is a familiar verse, but I feel the need to meditate on this for these weeks:
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.
Ps. 19:14, HCSB
Hello, my verse this time is 1 Chronicles 16:34 (NLT)
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.
We’ve just had another snow storm and I am hoping spring is around the corner now!
I know I am a little late this month. It has been a busy one but glad I have an extra week until the next on in May.
This week comes from Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again Rejoice. Let your graciousness be know to everyone.
Collasdians 2: 6-7 NIV
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Isaiah 41:10, NLT- Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
“And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
II Corinthians 12:9-10 NKJV
Sorry, still behind on posting. My verse is a favorite one from my niece. “But if I were you, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.” Job 5:8
Matthew 19:26 With God all things are possible.
My daughter bought me a framed print of this scripture and I keep it at my reading chair. contemplating this week for my scripture to meditate on and it was right in front of me.
Here is my prayer meditation: Sermon of the Mount Matthew 5,3-12
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Love and angel blessings
I’m having to play catch up. I have my verses recorded but just haven’t gotten them posted.
O my soul, you have said to the LORD, “You are my Lord, my goodness is nothing apart from You.” Psalm 16:2 O how I must stay close to God to have any form of goodness for without Him, I am filthy rags!
“Come now, let’s settle this,”says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool.” Isaiah 1:18 (NLT)
I am starting Melissa Spoelstra’s study of “Isaiah” to lead in the Fall. This is the first Memory Verse she shares. Hoping to meditate on more Isaiah verses this year. Thank you!