The testimonies we've been hearing from you are so encouraging--and we hope that you're sharing your insights and testimonies with others so that many will be encouraged.
If you are taking up the challenge to memorize the WHOLE book of James this summer, our next set of verses is:
JAMES 1:19-27.
If you're meditating on the verses from Pastor Jeff's weekly sermon, this past week he taught on James 1:16-18.
Memorization tip of the week:
Create an outlandish picture in your mind about the verse and picture it as a video when you say the verse. Example: James 1:11
For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat (picture a huge, cartoonish sun that's throwing flames to the earth)
than it withers the grass (picture grass withering & whining)
its flower falls & its beautiful appearance perishes (picture a flower falling off a cliff and a crumpled heap as it hits the ground and perishes)
So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits (picture extravagantly dressed "Austin Powers" type guy who fades away like the invisible man as he pursues more riches)
It seems silly, but using outlandish, visual imagery will help verses and concepts stick with you. Just think about the pictures you create in your mind and the words will come!
Wherever you are engaging The James Summer Challenge, please take a moment and write a quick comment to share about how you're doing and spur each other on to growth.
The Lord got my attention in verse 14 this week. It says: But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desire and enticed. I have been asking the Lord this question: "What desires do I have in my heart that would draw me away to be enticed?"
Oooh...keep working with me, Lord.
Last week, I was feeling quite proud of myself for 2 difficult hikes that I was able to accomplish. I heard His still voice saying, "Who is helping you with these hikes?" I knew it was Jesus who is giving me the help I need. I was reminded of James 1:14, "but each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed." I realized how easy it would be for me to let pride have it's way and forget about where my strength is coming from!My strength comes from Jesus!
ReplyDeleteOne day as I was praying for/thinking of how I am proud of a friend for taking on the James challenge in spit of her short term memory and other physical challenges that Jesus has been healing! He said she will be memorizing James in her heart. I sent her that message and has been an encouragment to her. It has also encouraged me to get into James more.
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