WE MADE IT!!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOO!!! To the glory of God, we made it, Siestas! If I could hug your neck, I’d purely squeeze you in two! Please picture me (in a long skirt) doing copious cheerleader jumps! I cannot wait to celebrate with as many of you as possible in January. I wish with all my heart that every single one of you were coming. This girl right here is ready to party. Even one of you missing is too many but I know that it’s hard to manage the time away and the travel expenses are also just too high for many. I’d pay every one of your ways if I could.
Okay, you darling things. I didn’t even have to think twice about the verse I wanted to memorize this last time around in 2011 because it’s about you. With your understanding, I’ll use “sister” instead of “brother.” Here goes:
Beth, Houston. For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my [sister], because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.” Philemon 7 ESV
Oh, gracious. That is the truth.
Now, since this is a very special occasion, we’re going to break protocol. This time I’m not going to limit you to your usual 1st and 15th Scripture-only entries. As we wrap up our year, you are welcome to also write a brief paragraph about what this journey with Christ has meant to you and why. No pressure. The invitation is simply there is you want to testify.
You are so incredibly dear to me, Siestas. I am at a loss for words. What a ride.
Lord Jesus, thank You, thank You, thank You, thank You! We cannot do anything to Your good pleasure that You do not first initiate and then enable. To You be all credit, honor, and praise. Please cause us to retain “the implanted word, which is able to save [our] souls.” (James 1:21) Make us wiser and make our hearts larger. You are our delight. We want so much to be Yours, too. You are our everything.
Dayla, Springfield, MO
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39 NIV
This has been an incredible experience for me. God has given me scriptures every month to prepare me for the challenges I would be facing. I’ve loved using my Siesta scriptures to calm my fears, give encouragement to others, and just bask in God’s love. I’m hooked on memorizing God’s word!
Loretta of Bloomfield, NJ
1 Peter 3:7 NIV
Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
Beth – thank you for your leadership and encouragement. While memorizing Scripture did not come naturally or easily to me, it has been one of the best two or three things I have ever done in my life. I am so grateful.
Delta Dawn
Dallas, GA
“Such ‘wisdom’ does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peace makers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.”
James 3:15-18
Vanessa from Victoria, TX
“Gray hair Is a crown of splendor; it is obtained by a righteous life.”. Proverbs 16:31 NIV
Jennifer, Singapore
Jeremiah 33:3 ESV
“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”
This year and these Scriptures I’ve chosen have seen me through so much. We are preparing to leave Singapore and return to Houston in a couple of months. God is so good, and I know He has gone before us in this stage of our lives just like he has in the ones before.
Central, SC: “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” ~ Psalm 139:16b, New International Version 1984.
Thank you so much for the Scripture Memory Challenge this year =) I feel like my year has been documented in those verses; when I was struggling with something, I would choose a verse for that, or God would give me a verse for that. I’m 23 and dealing with some very formative decisions/lifestyle choices, and I can affirm that the Scripture Memory Challenge has been an incredible blessing with that. It reminds me God is the Solid Rock through all the changes in life!!
Laurie, Gibsonville, NC
“For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6 (AMP BIBLE)
This is a bitter-sweet day for me! I usually blog in around 7am. I wanted to spend this last day reflecting back on all my verses this past year. God’s Word has pulled me through so many trials in 2011. I have learned to forgive, to be patient, to trust, love completely, stay positive and focused on the Truth “His Word” 🙂 I am a “Lady in Waiting” Thank you all so much for sharing your stories and scriptures with me. I am blessed to call you my SIESTA’S! See you all in 2012 🙂 Be blessed and Merry Christmas! {{{{I <3 MY JESUS}}}}
Kristin Mitchell from Kentucky;
So it is a sin for the person who knows to do what is good and doesn’t do it.
James 4:17 hcsb
Betty from Austin, Texas: Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakkuk 3:18 NIV
Rebecca, Kilgore, TX
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; ”
Eph. 5:20, KJV
Melanie, Arkansas
“Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance.”
Psalms 89:15 KJV
Michelle, Houston, “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” Phil 4:8 NIV 1984
Maxie,Montgomery, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Crystal, Munford, TN
…..for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
James 1:20
English Standard Version (ESV)
Emily from Birmingham, AL (formerly Washington, DC) … “May the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace as you TRUST in Him, so that you may OVERFLOW WITH HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 NIV
Ruth, Providence, RI:
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all mankind, and by it we are trained to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.” ESV
Dear Miss Beth and Brave Siestas,
THANK YOU each and all for the inspiration and encouragement and fellowship each month of this past year to post and memorize these Words. What a tremendous gift of the Spirit! The scriptures the Lord led me to this past year have been foundational in a deepening of my comprehension particularly of the Holy Spirit and His presence–what it is to sow to and reap from the Spirit. I have found that, among others, the depiction of our condition in Isaiah 30 and God’s faithfulness to us has given me whole new insights on my daily walk with the Lord. All in all, during this year that the Lord saw fit to call my sweet Daddy home to Him, I have been given a treasure chest of jewels directly from the Hand of God through His Word, through my SSMT verses.
BLESS YOU ALL DEEPLY and Merry Christmas, Siestas!!
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness
1 John 1:9 NIV
Colima, Klamath Falls, OR
Deb, Becker MN
In my anguish I cried to the Lord and He answered by setting me free. Ps 118:5
This journey was made sweeter by the company of a dear, young woman who I have the privilege of mentoring. Just to be clear, I truly believe the mentoring goes both ways! Jaydee is a high school senior and we’ve been working together for three years. I’m so very proud of her. Wish we could celebrate in Houston with everyone, but we will definitely be having our own MN celebration very soon.
Beckie, Washington DC: Luke 2:14 (NIV) 4 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Jess R, Katy, Tx –
‘But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:33-34 NKJ.
Discovered this year that I can memorize verses and that they are more wonderful and powerful and healing and comforting etc etc etc than I ever could have imagined. Such a hard year – but so much growth…nervous and excited to see what’s next! 🙂
Valerie – Fultondale, AL
For we live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV
Beth this has been such a terrible year for us. From the tornado in April and all the emotions of going through it to my dad passing in October and my mother in law’s passing in November. These scriptures have helped strengthen me. Just looking forward to the 1st and 15th of every month helped. I’m not sure if I’ll be there in January, have my room but roomie cancelled on me and don’t think I’ll be able to swing the transportation and room alone. But I will definitely be there in spirit!!
Ginny- Georgia
The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 amp
Revelation 4:11 CEB You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, because you created all things. It is by your will that they existed and were created.
Shelly
Amarillo, Texas
This is my third year of doing the Scripture Memory Challenge. I cannot even begin to share how profoundly this has impacted my walk with God. This has been a year of “going” and “waiting.” It has also been unique as I attempted to run a 5k and my verses were with me every step of the way. (Not exactly there yet, but that’s my goal for 2012!) As much as God has been all in my business about an area I struggle with, I have made progress. However, recently, I’ve felt defeated and need this reminder that God and His Word is powerful!
Luke 1:37 NIV
For nothing is impossible with God.
Thank you Beth and LPM staff for the challenge and encouragement to walk closer with the Father. Thank you for being faithful to what He has called you to do! He has certainly blessed my life with yours!
Laurie, Spokane, James 2:2-4 (NASB)
For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives?
Thank you so much for the challenge. On Oct 15th, I memorized James 1:2-4, and on the morning of Oct 18th, the most difficult trial of my life (as well as my family’s life) came with utter shock and unparalleled pain. I remember immediately falling to my knees and crying to God, that I believed Romans 8:28…I trusted Him in faith because I just couldn’t imagine anything good coming out of what happened. Over the past two months, I have seen His Word come to fruition in my life. Because I was memorizing James 1:2-4, I boldly asked for wisdom to get through the trial. And because I had peeked on the Lifeway website, knowing that I wanted to get going on memorizing James, I was familiar with vs. 5-8. I asked with absolutely no doubt that God would give me wisdom to get through what happened. Beautifully, all manner of good has and continues to come forth…our world was shaken, but our feet stand firm on the rock, thanks to the Word of God. Thank you for being an influential teacher in my life. I appreciate you so much and pray for you and the work you do for our glorious Lord.
Sue, Texarkana, “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 139:23-34 NIV
I stand amazed that God has enabled me to memorize these Scriptures this year. I NEVER thought I’d be able to do this. I am so encouraged that I am now going to try level 5 of the new James study and memorize the whole book! Pretty sure this will be a year-long process…but what a worthy goal!
Pauline, Kearney, NE
Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. And you will seek me and find me when you search for me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:12-13 NKJV
Diana @Surrey, BC Canada
“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever.” 1 Chronicles 16:34 NIV
I just want to say that often I have looked at the various Scriptures that others memorize and jot it down. I have a little book of favorite verses and so often these have come from the 1st and 15th. I use these verses to encourage others and myself. I will honestly miss the opportunity to see Scripture touching the lives of various seistas as they apply to heart and life.
Erin, Lolo, MT “For where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” Luke 12:34 NIV
Bonnie, Seattle,
Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Col 4:2 NLT
Heather, Glencoe;
For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37(NIV)
I have enjoyed this journey and can’t wait until the celebration next month!!!
Kathy, Lake Jackson, Texas
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be on his shoulders. And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Might God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 KJV
Whitney N., Birmingham, AL.
“We live by faith, not by sight.” -2 Corinthians 5:7
So very thankful for this steady community … always pointing us straight to the Prince of Peace. Thank you, Beth, for being our fearless leader! This year has been a lot of transition – but I have constantly been reminded through this community that our God is the same yesterday, today, & forever – that’s one thing that’s not going to change! Merry Christmas!!!
SSMT #24: “Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive as you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37 NIV
I had jotted down one for the 31st continuing with 2 a month – It’s one of my favorites!
“For I know th plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Vivian
Birmingham, Alabama
So you, by the help of your God, return, hold fast to love and justice, and wait continually for your God. Hosea 12:6 ESV
Wendy Raleigh NC
We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 2 Corinthians 10:12 NIV
Wow a year sure goes by quick! I’m really bad for sticking to anything for a long period of time so just being able to do this has been a work of the Holy Spirit! He wanted me to do this and He pushed me each month!!! I carry my Scriptures with me everywhere…it’s been wonderful! Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement all year long!
I truly wish I could come to Houston!! May the LORD continue to bless you and your family!!!
Bonnie, Alexandria, LA
Lamentations 3:22, 23 NIV
“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.”
This has been a most blessed journey of hiding his Words in my thoughts as well as my heart. I am the richer for it. He satisfies!
Megan, Grants Pass
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”
Philippians 4:7
Shannon, Buda TX
Filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ- to the glory and praise of God.
Phillipians 1:10 NIV
Sue – Troy, MI – “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Neh. 8:10
Thank you for helping me through a rough year of health problems for my husband. Each verse I memorized helped me get through the days and weeks. Every time I go over the verses it brings back the memories of what we were going through. It’s still a hard time for him, but we are praying and believing God will heal him completely. Thank you again! Looking forward to coming to Houston with my two daughters.
Ps 139:13-16 (NIV)
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
Beth- are you planning another year of SSMT? Another darling binder of cards? I am praying so. This was a wonderful reminder to have these cards available.
Thank you.
Glendale, OR Numbers 11:14 “I cannot bear all this (people) alone. It is too heavy for me.”
Thank God that He is truly there to carry the burden!!! And us!! I came in to this wonderful blog earlier this year and although I have only posted a few verses, I have been so blessed with memorizing for myself as well as for our boys. Stephen is 7 and he has been learning a few alongside me, although our 3 year old is told a very easy version (like “nice words stop people from getting more angry” 🙂 I am so thankful for beautiful hearts in so many sisters all around! God says to encourage each other and I pray that is what we all receive from our sisters through His spirit. Love you all & can’t wait until one day when time and distance won’t matter any more and we can all meet with all the time in the world to get to know each other with God so tangibly in our midst 🙂
Amber Wooten, Warsaw, IN
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
(Luke 2:11 ESV)
Trying to remember the center of this special season. Thanks Beth & Siestas for all the encouragement this year. May God bless you all in this new year.
Nicole 🙂
Keller
Romans 4:20-21 amp
20No unbelief or distrust made him waver (doubtingly question) concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and was empowered by faith as he gave praise and glory to God, 21Fully satisfied and assured that God was able and mighty to keep His word and to do what He had promised.
Sue in Grand Rapids, MI
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them light has shined.
Isaiah 9:2 ESV
Hallelujah! Merry Christmas everyone!
DeeDee Houston, Tx.
1 Samuel 2:1 NLT
My heart rejoices in the LORD! The LORD has made me strong.
This year has been such a blessing to me of memorizing
scripture. God definantly had a theme for me to work on my attitude, tongue, mind and heart. The LORD has made me strong!
Merry Christmas to all our Seistas.
Shannon, Mandeville, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit”. TNIV
Cheryl – Concord, NC
“I can do all things through his who strengthens me.” Philippians 4.13 ESV
Barb D. Lakeland, FL
You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:36 NIV
This has been a very good experience. I’ve loved reading other’s verses and the blog itself, and being a part of a group of women here at home who were also sharing in this with me. I plan to attend the Houston gathering all the way from Florida with my Houston friend, Kerry Babb (A member of your Tues. night Bible studies, of which I have been ever so slightly envious of her for!) See you next month!!!
Kristie
Tyler, Tx (formerly from Sandia, TX)
For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)