Great Start!

Here we are in week two of The James Summer Challenge.  We've had a great beginning and we're excited about how the Lord is using this in our development as disciples.


For those engaging in the memorization of the book of James, our memorization/meditation verses for this week are:

James 1:9-18

Memorization tip of the week:

1. Read each phrase of the verse out loud 5 times along with the "address" (e.g. James 1:9)
2. Say that phrase 7 times without looking (if you stumble, re-read the verse, and repeat the second step)
3. Go the the next phrase & repeat steps 1 & 2
4. Say the phrases together with "address" 5 times without looking
5. Continue adding phrases until you can say the whole verse.  
6. Try saying the verse throughout the day

Here's something the Lord spoke to me about as I was meditating through the first 8 verses this week.  We never really know who we are, what we know, or what's really in us until it's tested.  When I've gone through difficult trials in the past I had to come face to face with faith vs. flesh within myself.  My faith was tested...what I truly believed about God and His purposes and power.  I intellectually believed but faith was put to the test as I had to speak and act in accordance with the truth of His word when all circumstances seemed to point in another direction.  But each time faith won over flesh, my faith was strengthened so that I would be able to have endurance to stand.  Thank You, Lord! 

You can go back to previous posts at any time by clicking a link on the right.  We'd love to hear how it's going for you so be sure to add your comments below.

You Can Do It!

     This summer as we go through the book of James it is our hope and goal to be transformed by His Word not just filled with more information.  So, how can this happen? Glad you asked!
     Our challenge this summer is to go beyond hearing and reading and engage in meditation and memorization of the Word.

                 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall 

                 meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all 

                 that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then 

                 you will have good success.  Josh 1:8    NKJV

     To meditate on scripture means to:

           *think about it - what's being said?
           *reflect upon it - what does it mean to me?
           *invite the Holy Spirit to give insight for application to life

     Memorizing scripture is a tool for meditating on it as it gives the Holy Spirit opportunity to speak to us personally.

          Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.  Ps 119:11 NKJV

     You can do it!  Yes, you --no matter how old you are.  Is it hard?  No.  It just takes some effort.  But as you embark on it, you will find that it gets easier and helps you in other areas.

Psalm 1:1-3 (selections)

                    Blessed is the man...who's delight is in the law (Word) of the Lord,

                    and in His law (word) he meditates day and night.  He shall be like a

                    tree planted by the rivers of waters...and whatever he does shall prosper.

     Along with meditation and memorization through the book of James, we'll also be sharing with each other the things we're learning from this practice.  For example:

James 1:1 begins with "James, a bondservant of God & of the Lord Jesus Christ."

This verse tells me that James knew who he was and what he was all about.  The Lord wants that same thing for me.

We have 3 different ways for you to participate in this challenge together:

1.  Meditate on & memorize the complete book of James.  Starting June 18 we will memorize 1 1/3  verses each day throughout the summer series starting with James 1:1 (many of the verses are very short).  By doing this we will have the whole book of James memorized by the end of the series on Sept. 9.  Then, blog your insights and share with others what you are learning from the Lord.

2.  Meditate on & memorize one chapter of your choosing from James throughout the summer.  If this is your choice you would memorize about 1/3 of a verse each day (with time for review!). Be sure to blog your insights that others will be encouraged.

3.  Daily read the passage of James that Pastor Jeff preaches for the week and meditate on it. As the Lord speaks to you, blog so that others can learn through you and be built up.

Each week, you will find a new posting of the scriptures we're focusing on as well as some tips and helps for memorization.  Take time to read what others post --we will learn great things from each other as well as receive encouragement.

Sign in and let us know which challenge you're reaching for this summer.  Let the fun begin!

Week 1:  June 18-24        James 1:1-8

      Tip:  read the verse out loud in "phrases" & memorize a phrase at a time.

      Ex:  James, a bondservant of God (1st phrase)

               and of the Lord Jesus Christ (2nd phrase)

               To the 12 tribes (3rd phrase)

               which are scattered abroad.  (4th phrase)

               Greetings.  (5th phrase)

Transformation is on the way!