We’re off and running, Sweet Things! And 11,000 strong!!! Oh, how I pray that God will grant us the divine favor and indwelling power to keep it up month after month and finish 2013 in the multiple thousands. What joy He and we would have! For now, we take it step by step, one verse at a time. Don’t get caught up wondering how in the world you’re going to memorize 24 verses when you’re having a hard time memorizing the first one. That will sink your Scripture memory boat for sure.
I make you this promise based on my experience and the experience of many others: the more you memorize, the more you’ll get the hang of it. I was going to say that the more you memorize, the easier it gets but it’s not easy and that’s part of what makes it such a victory to celebrate with Jesus. I do believe I can tell you with confidence, however, that your tenth verse will very likely be easier to memorize than your first one. By that time, you’ve quit letting your nay-whining old nature tell you that you can’t do it and you shouldn’t have even tried. A big part of the battle in the first month is simply telling that self-destructive echo in our heads to shut its mouth. It’s replacing “I knew I couldn’t do it” with “Oh, yes I can. I can do all things through Christ.”
Persevere! Let’s not be quitters! God would rather us make it to the end of the year still stumbling over some words than throwing our hands up and quitting at the first imperfect recitation. Even if we don’t get our verses down perfectly, the pursuit itself is the very art of meditation. Nothing about it is a waste of time. Just think of how it helps to break the mental loop of rehearsed offenses. We’re going to be fixated on something. That’s how our minds often work. But we get to choose what.
So, right now say verse 1 out loud the very best you can.
Tremendous job. Now, let’s add our second one to it.
I totally love my verse this time around! It came up in my Scripture reading during my quiet time early Sunday morning. Here it goes:
Beth, Houston. All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children.” Isaiah 54:13 ESV
Isn’t that fabulous? I’m choosing this verse specifically so that I can turn it into intercessory prayer. Mind you, I’m not “claiming” it like I’d be apt to do with a promise more clearly obvious under the New Covenant. I’m reluctant to claim the fulfillment of a promise made straight to Israel for myself or people in my world unless I know that we have a coinciding New Covenant promise. I’d have to see consistency to pray it as one fervently counting on it. Isaiah 54:13 carries obvious elements that are very consistent with the promises of Christ to us. He promised that the Holy Spirit will teach us all things and He blatantly gave us His peace but where I’m asking God to do an Isaiah 54:13 work in my family is the emphasis on ALL my children. I want every single one of them to be students of Christ Jesus, to love His Word and His ways with a passion beyond the natural realm, and for His peace to be great upon them and contagious. If you’ll look in the Scripture’s context in Isaiah 54, especially in verses 11-17, you’ll see that V.13 is within the promises God made specifically to Israel and scheduled for fulfillment in a time yet to come. So, no, I’m not claiming it, so to speak, BUT, I am indeed asking for it. That’s fair game.
God is not obligated to say yes to promises like those in Isaiah 54 this side of His Kingdom’s full revelation but, as I persevere in prayer and faith, He will indeed hear me and I believe be pleased that I had the boldness to pray it. He is not blessed by our small, vision-bare petitions anyway. I’ve thought for a long time that God would rather hear His children voice outrageously large prayers of faith even if He has to say no on occasion than hear our pale, timid, tepid requests for things He’s already given us anyway. For instance, if we belong to Him in Christ, He is indeed going to “bless us” and “keep us.” So, I’m adding Isaiah 54:13 to my spiral and planning to reword it often into a request. I’m going to take the risk that He may indeed perform generational miracles with a family tree sprouted from the soil of disease and brokenness. Make us oaks of righteousness, Lord, for the display of Your splendor. (Isaiah 61:3)
This I know for sure: we often have not because we ask not. (James 4:2)
I love something else about Isaiah 54:13. I love that the word translated peace in English is the word “shalom” in Hebrew. The Hebrew word blows the doors off of our usual concept of peace. When I ask God for great peace to be upon my children, I have no interest in a trance-like state of passionless nirvana. I want God’s brand of peace: lively, vivacious. Here’s what the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament has to say about it:
“The general meaning behind the root š-l-m is of completion and fulfillment—of entering into a state of wholeness and unity, a restored relationship.”
It means to be intact, healthy, sound. It means wellness of soul. It conveys the idea of God prospering His child. He describes His peace like a river: moving and running. His peace is no pond. I read the verse first out of The NET Bible that sits open on my desk at home. Isaiah 54:13 is worded this way on its pages: “All your children will be followers of the LORD, and your children will enjoy great prosperity.” Right that moment I jotted the verse down in my journal and, under it, asked the Lord (with enough zeal to imprint it on the next page) to prosper my children and their children and their children and their children in the way that really matters: grant them lives that bear much fruit – I said MUCH FRUIT –Â for THIS is to our Father’s great glory. May they blatantly show themselves to be Christ’s disciples. (That’s John 15:8 and, if you haven’t memorized it yet, it is a must! Prioritize it early on in your year if God causes it to leap off the page with you.)Â With all my heart, I want God to use this lineage He is redeeming to prosper His Kingdom.
So I am really fired up about my verse for our next two weeks and hope to still be saying it and praying it for the next generations of this family line when I’m about to see Jesus. If you don’t already have a verse selected, you are welcome to share it and make it your own with Jesus. Choose any verse that He’s using to speak to you right now. Remember, that’s what will make it stick to your ribs. It needs to mean something to you!
Hit it, Girls! Remember! Only your names, cities, verses, references, and translations! You are stellar, Sisters. I love you so much.
Edited to add: Information on how to download your Android or iPhone application!
I know many of you have been asking if we are going to have an app this year for your smart phones, and we have both good news and bad news. The good news is YES, we ARE! We have created an app for both Android and iPhones. The bad news is, the Android app is ready for you, but if you would be so patient with us, we’ll have the iPhone app ready for you in about five or six days. Does that sound good?
So, excuse me while I get technical for just a minute!
For those of you that still have the old application on your phone (and this goes for both Android and iPhone users), you would most likely have received a notification about the availability of this new one, but if not, and you are currently using an android, simply click here to download the app. (This link is for Android users only.) Android users, if you’re having issues with this link (and it’s currently working fine on this end), you can search “Living Proof Ministries – Scripture Memory Team – 2013” in your phone under applications. (I have very little knowledge about Android phones, so forgive me if my wording is wrong.)
When the iPhone app is ready, I’ll update this post for those of you who would like to download it with all the instructions you’ll need. However, I do know upfront you’ll be able to find the app in the iTunes store via your phone or computer.
Once you have the application, it is very user friendly. You’ll be notified the 1st and 15th of every month with the new blog post that will land in your application (you will only be notified if you have turned on notifications for this specific app), you can share the post, and then you can also store your memory work in there. It will also act like your spiral. You may want to use both your spiral and the app to have on hand in case you lose one or the other!
I hope that helps! Doesn’t this make it so much more fun?
Tags: Scripture Memory 2013
Debbie from Cathey’s Valley, CA: “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:28 (NIV)
My soul rests with God alone. My salvation comes from him.
Psalm 21:1
NIV
Jennifer Webber, Memphis, TN
This is what the Lord says —
your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel;
“I am the Lord your God,
who teaches you what is best for you,
who directs you in the way you should go.”
Isaiah 48:17 (NIV)
I’m starting late but I really want to participate! So! My memory verses for January 1 and 15:
Jennifer Nicole, Houston, TX
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked nor stands in the way of sinners nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.
Psalm 1:1-3 ESV
For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen. Romans 11:36
Shelley J Lantz – Roanoke, Va
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
1 Peter 4:10 NIV
Sarah- Poplar Bluff, Mo
Psalm 51:2
Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. NIV
Keep and protect me,o God for in You i have found refuge and in You do I put my trust and hide myself. I say to the Lord, YOU are my Lord;I have no good besides or beyoned You.
Psalm 16 vs 1&2
The everyday life Bible
Amplified
WAYNE, PA
Abraham never waivered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever He promises. Rom 4:20 nlt
Kaye Taft from Manassas, VA
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast,
trusting in the Lord. Psalm 112:7 NIV
Brenda, Granbury, TX
For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. Romans 10:10 NLT
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does The Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
Carmela from Canton, Ohio
Phillipians 4:6 NIV Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
I Corinthians 15:3-4 (NIV) 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.
Tracie Monticello, FL
“Rejoice in The Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”
Phil 4:4-5 NIV
Kim, Chester
All your children shall be taught by The Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children. Isaiah 54:13 ESV
Ruth in SC
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Emily, Houston, TX-
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I now live, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me.”
Galatians 2:20 (NIV)
Hebrews 13:6 KJV So that we may boldly say, the Lord is my helper and I will not fear what man shalll do unto me.
Tallahassee, FL ESV Daniel 4:35 all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, “What have you done?”
Tricia Westbury Lexington, SC
Finally, brothers and sisters, 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.
Becky from Highland Village, Tx
Though our hearts are filled with sin, you forgive them all. Psalm 65:3. New living Translation
Tempa, Palm Bay,Fl, “All your children will be taught by the Lord and great will be their peace.”Isaiah 54:13,NIV
April, Fort Worth. 19 Go therefore[a] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.[b] Matthew 28:19-20
Oops Translation: NIV
Jean, Palm Bay, FL
To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the L ord has planted for his own glory. (Isaiah 61:3 NLT)
“Then he began teaching them saying,
Blessed is the poor in spirit
because the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.”
Matthew 5:2-3 HCSB
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will. Rom. 12:2 NIV
I know I’m late, but I’m still here!
Miquela, Knoxville. ” Everything is permissible for me– but not everything is beneficial” 1 Corinthians 6:12 (NIV)
Vicki from Wilmington, DE
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God”. Colossians 3:1 NKJV
Ruthann
Odessa, TX
1 Peter 1:8-9 NIV
Though I have not seen Him, I love Him; and even though I do not see Him now, I believe in Him and am filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for I am receiving the end result of my faith, the salvation of my soul.
Sarah Beth, Meridian, MS
“And let the peace of the Messiah to which you were also called in one body control your hearts. Be thankful!” – Colossians 3:15 HCSB
Lanie Beth, Locust Grove, GA
“Bring joy to your servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you.’ Psalm 86:4
Rosa, from Rahway, NJ…Who do I have in heaven but you? And I desire nothing on earth but you. Psalm 73:25 HCSB
Alexa, Shippensburg, PA
“You are the light of the world, a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do you light a lamp and put it under a bowl, but rather, on it’s stand so all can see and praise your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14-16 NIV
Cindy, Highlands Ranch,CO
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NKJV
Frances, Orange, TX
If any one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Ecclesiastes 4:10
NIV 84
Joanne, Orange, TX
If any one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Ecclesiastes 4:10
NIV 84
Catherine, Orlando: All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children.” Isaiah 54:13 ESV
Anna Gibbs. Camden, Alabama
“Say to him, be careful, keep calm, and do not be afraid. Do not lose heart because of these two smoldering stubs of firewood.. ” Isaiah 7:4 (NIV)
Kim from Redlands,CA
John 16:33 – NIV
I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
OOps I forgot to post this 2 weeks ago…
Shelly Story
Wausa, Nebraska
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every hinderance, and the sin that so easlily entangles, and let us run with perseverence the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes of Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from evil men so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV
(I typed that from memory, so not all the punctuation may be correctly placed. Grin.)
Proverbs 16:7 HCSB
When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Denver
Exodus 14:14
The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
Can you imagine if we only knew this and remained still??
Carin
Bossier City,La.
Glatians 5:16 (ESV)
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will; not gratify the desires of the flesh.
(Forgot to post it on 1/15 oopes )
“Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, Who only does wondrous things! And blessed be His glorious name forever! And let the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen.” Psalm 72:18-19 NKJ
Karen, Carthage TX
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
Sorry forgot translation it was NIV kindle version.
It didn’t sound right & isn’t this is the first error I have found. Those & they should be He.
Darcie Lyon, Sheridn Wy
Sorry this is late but have been working on it. 🙂
Ephesians 2:10 ESV
We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis 50:20
Sherry, Virginia Beach, VA. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26 NIV
Gail from Silverdale:
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15: 13 NLT