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.
Rachelle, Garnder, KS “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32, NIV
OH MAMA Beth! Praise this day!
Melissa Irwin; Nashville, TN (writing from Zimbabwe, Africa).
2 John 1:6 “And this is love; that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.”
I am in utter shock and awe that I memorized even 1 scripture, let alone 24 (actually almost 30). My life is forever changed. His word is in my heart and on my tongue, always. So grateful!
Elizabeth, Grove City, PA:
John 1:4-5 (ESV) –
In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Bethany Silva
Modesto, Ca.
There is hope for your future, declares the Lord.
Jeremiah 31:17 (esv)
This year has not been a good one for me in regards to scripture memory. I tried but could not keep up. My tendency would be to pour heaping amounts of condemnation on my head but I wont do that! There was fruit in meditating on the Word even if I did not memorize it. God is good and I am grateful!
Merry Christmas Siestas!
Charmaine, Miami — “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” 1 Peter 5:10 – NIV
I can’t quite put into words my experience this year with the SSMV team. What I have found out about myself is how much I am lacking in this area of my life and there is no time like to the present to get to steppin’. Beth you have made such a profound impact on my journey with our Lord. I’ve learned so much through your Bible studies and studying God’s Word and I thank you for that. All to His honor and glory. I won’t be able to see you and the siestas in January but I’d like wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.
Leverett, MA
I am going to “fess up” right at the beginning. I did not choose a verse for this day. I have spent all year learning Romans 6:1-23. I am going to keep soaking in those scriptures for the rest of the month. So thankful that He was willing to come as a baby and live a perfect life for me so that “The death He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life He lives, He lives to God.” so that, “In the same way,[I can] count [myself] dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” Romans 6:10-11 NIV AMEN!!!!
Can’t wait to be in TX next month!!!
p.s.
please ask Travis to come up with a song for Romans 6. It would have been sooo much easier to learn to music. 🙂
Tanya, Somerville, TN Hebrews 1:3
“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful Word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” NIV
Memorizing scripture has saved and empowered my life. It has enhanced my prayer life to pray His Word back to Him. The Holy Spirit brings the Word to my mind to encourage, comfort, convict, and teach me daily. I am so grateful for our Triune God! There’s something about memorizing with a community of women who love Jesus – the accountability and the sheer joy! Thank you, Beth, for being our leader in this. I wish I could be with you in January – I know it will be a blast! Will be home studying James – can’t wait – have already started memorizing the first chapter. I love you, girls!!
“I thank my God every time I remember you.”
Philippians 1:3, NIV
This journey has been such a blessing for me – it has challenged me to meditate on God’s word constantly and consistently and while I haven’t always been 100% successful in getting each and every word and address correct, the Lord has surely blessed me. I have a renewed love for his word and the gift of traveling this road with community is indescribable.
Rebecca, Chattanooga, TN
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. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV ’84
Phyllis, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Luke 2:10 & 11 KJV
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the LORD.
Dear Beth and all staff of LPM, Melissa and Amanda included, THANK YOU for a wonderful year on this journey of seistaville. My year has not been wonderful, but as someone else has already mentioned I to have sat and read thru each women’s scripture verse and have been encouraged in my faith and my heart by this witness. Unfortunately I will not be attending the celebration in Houston, but I will be there in my heart with you’all!!! sincerely Phyllis.
Cheryl in Fairhope. “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
God bless you Beth 🙂
Lauren, Malvern, PA
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Colossians 3:16 (ESV)
Karen, Lynnwood,WA –
Isaiah 26:4 ESV
“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.”
This year of scripture memorization has been amazing! One of the best parts of going through this process was getting to share the experience with my mom. We emailed our verses to each other each time and were so encouraged by what we shared. We are both attending the celebration in January and I’m so looking forward to spending the weekend with her. We also get to stay with family that lives in Houston. God has been so faithful to give me a verse each time that really mattered and my relationship with Him has grown so much. Thank you, Beth, for the chance to tuck His word away in my heart. I can’t wait for the party!
Patty Pierce
Searcy AR
Psalm 19:14 Niv
May the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight o Lord my Rock and my Redeemer
I cant begin to tell you how much memorizing scripture has helped me this year. I cant say I have been through any major crisis this year. In fact over all it has been a great year for me and my family. The one thing I know though is that can change in a heartbeat and through these scriptures I feel God has prepared me. God has also used these scriptures to help me to minister to those around me. I am so thankful for that even though at times my witness has been so poor and all I can say is please more grace Lord.
I hope I will be able to be there in Jan. The sister I was going with is not able so I have to decide if I want to go by myself. I hope I will get to see many of you there.
Woodstock, Ga.
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (NIV 1984)
We did it! I’ve been in the word for less than 5 years. I have an amazing village of women around me that have gently pushed me to this amazing relationship that I have now with God. Each time I look back at the verses I can tell exactly what was going on in my life. Life CHANGING! I am coming to Houston with my accountability group…all 5 of us are leaving on a jetplane and coming to see you! Thank you for leading us in this amazing journey.
Karie-Phoenix, AZ
Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
Luke 14:34
amen and amen!! love you, friend! such an honor to be on this journey with you. one more month til houston!!!!!!
Gail, Phoenix
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14 (NIV)
Though, I am still working on several of my verses and have not fully committed all to memory (yet!), His Word has become so precious and dear to me even more so over this past year and I know in full that it shall accomplish what He pleases and WILL prosper the thing for which He sent it.
Luke 3:4b [KJV]
Prepare ye the way of the Lord . . .
I think this is a good choice for the up-coming CHRIST-mas season !
Love and Merry Christmas to all, In Christ Jesus,
Jennifer Olmstead
Janesville, Wisconsin
“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
~ Matthew 5:15 NIV
Tinley Park, IL
“One will say, ‘I belong to the LORD;’ another will call himself by the name of Jacob; still another will write on his hand, ‘The LORD’S,’ and will take the name of Israel.” Isaiah 44:5 (NIV)
Olathe, KS
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15 NIVUK)
Will you have 2013 Siesta spirals? They are the perfect size! And are so much more attractive than an index card spiral.
Natalie; Trussville, AL; “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy, and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
This commitment has been a tremendous blessing to me. I have been amazed at how the verse I picked each time became more relevant to my life or to a friend’s life during those 2 weeks. In God’s Sovereignty, several situations arose, where that verse became alive and spoke clearly to the specific situation at hand. I love that His Word IS alive, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. He blesses obedience, and I have seen Him at work…ALL glory to HIM! I pray that HE will make these truths stick and hide them in my heart.
Be still and know that I am God Psalm 46:10a
NIV
jill
vandalia mo
Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights in giving you the kingdom.
Luke 12:32 CEB
Thank You, Jesus, for everything. Happy Birthday!
Christelle, Delafield, Wisconsin
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer.
Psalm 19:14 NIV
Laura K in Spearish, SD:
Hosea 12:6 – So you, by the help of your God, return, hold fast to love and justice, and wait continually for your God.
If I could sum up the results of this year of Scripture memory into one word, it would be HOPE. I am learning to use these verses to prevent backsliding into old ruts and patterns that have plagued me for my entire life. I used to just think with resignation, “Oh well, that’s just the way I am”. But I am learning that it is not the way I HAVE to be. I can renew my mind with truth and walk on a new path. This gives me hope and confidence to face my future with expectation. It’s time to stop looking back, and more than time to walk forward with faith in peace and joy.
Lisa, Mauldin, “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 Wonder Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6(NIV)
Thank you Beth for your Ministry!!! God is so Good and I am praying everday to love Him more and more!! We just finished “Breaking Free” and I want nothing more than to love Him more than anything!!! God bless you and your family – Merry Christmas!!
Lis, London:
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV
I am so thankful that the Lord prompted me to take up this discipline. He knew how I would need His word hidden in my heart to keep me grounded through a challenging year. As I look through my verses I see the thread of how He was so personally leading me through, and how His word has literally been a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I praise Him for His steadfast love and faithfulness!
Lynette, Nashville, TN
Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.
Jeremiah 32:17 ESV
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
2 Timothy 2:15
Deidre
Hickory, NC
Kay, Sheridan
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
Hanni, Indiana:
…let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
James 1:19b-20 ESV
Unto you a child is born; he is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Sheri
Portland, Oregon
“Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.”
1 Corinthians 10:24 NIV 1984
I was fortunate to join the Siestas in January 2010. I met many wonderful Siestas and I have kept in touch with them via Facebook. We will be having a reunion when we meet again in January of 2012 in Houston. Thank you for helping us have accountability with our memory verses. It makes all the difference…
Julie,Texarkana- “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
I posted my scripture earlier without even reading the blog as I needed to rush to work. So now, I wanted to say how God has used this scripture memory to get me through a year of major challenges. Whenever I started any old obsessive thinking, I’d start to say my scriptures and God gave me such peace and joy in the process. Thank you and Praise God. I won’t be at the celebration, but I’ll be thinking about and praying for everyone attending that weekend.
Thank you for inviting me to memorize God’s word for 2011 with you and the LPM Blog community.
Although this is my first time posting my memory verse I have been along for the journey since January. I received your blog posts via email and was sure to visit the blog on the 1st & 15th of every month to witness what every1 else was studying as we memorized 24 scriptures together.
It has been a privilege! Thank you and may our Lord continue to show you His favor.
Mrs. Nez
Psalm 71:17-18 MSG & NKJ
You got me when I was an unformed youth, God, and taught me everything I know. Now I’m telling the world your wonders; I’ll keep at it until I’m old and gray.God, don’t walk off and leave me until I get out the news
declare you strength to this generation and news of your power to everyone who is to come.
Jennifer, Michigan. 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
This blog has been a blessing this year, thanks so much!
He Loves us, each and every one, loves us so much. Remember that dear sisters!
Jamie, Fort Worth, TX:
“A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.”
Proverbs 12:4 NIV
Kimberly Mason, Tuscaloosa, AL:
Philippians 1:9-10 NIV
“And this is my prayer; that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ.”
Kathy @ Wilmington NC
“…He is a God who is passionate about His relationship with you(me).” Exodus 34:14 NLT
Sarah, West Monroe, La
“At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises: Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.” Luke 2:13-14 (MSG)
Amy from Marion, VA
“For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:6
This has indeed been a blessing! God is so good and His Word is so dear.
Judy from East Chain,MN says
“For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my [sister], because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.”
I have loved being a part of this great fellowship of “Siestas!” My sister-in-law, Linda and I have been encouraging each other in this great way to grow our love for our Father even deeper! Thanks to our sweet sister, Beth, and your amazing team! I hope to meet you someday!
Melissa, Locust Grove, GA
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27 NIV 84
Marcie- Frisco, TX
Matthew 6:8 (NIV) Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.
February 2011 I left behind 4 amazing friends in AZ when answering a call to plant a church in Frisco. Heart-breaking to leave. Heart-restoring to memorize scripture together through the year. Heart filled with JOY thinking of our reunion in January!! Thank you for the opportunity!
Vicki
Murfreesboro, TN
Proverbs 3:6 (NIV)
“… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
It has been such a joy to memorize God’s Word along with all my siestas this year. I have been amazed at how often a verse would be just what I needed at that time. God’s Word helped me in my struggle with weight, and I have lost 25 pounds this year. Praise God! It has also been such a blessing for my 27-year-old daughter to participate this year. She included her 2-year-old daughter as well. That precious child can now say 5 verses. That brings tears to this Mimi’s eyes! Thanks Beth for your encouragement! Can’t wait to see everyone in January.
Joyce, Lebanon, Tn.
No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.
John 6:44 NKJV
Katie, Roswell, GA: “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”
I’m so grateful for having had this experience, and I look forward to SSMT 2012! I won’t be at the conference because I’ll be about to give birth, but I’ll be there in spirit! Thank you, Beth, for everything you do–you are such an inspiration to me on so many levels.