If it doesn't start there is is doomed isn't it. In years past I haven't made spiritual goals other than to say I was going to read my Bible every day. This year, my generic goal is to grow closer to God. But really? That should still be my goal when I am 78! This year I am trying to be more specific about how I am going to strive for that goal.
2011 Resolutions:
1. Read through the New Testament I have been the voice in the past to say it was silly to read through the Bible in a year. I know open mouth insert foot...I do it so well. I did not see how anyone could possibly get any depth from reading that many chapters every day. But I was inspired by a couple that we know that decided to read through the Bible as a couple for 2010 and on Dec 31st. they finished. Hearing the things that they learned from doing that was amazing. They may have not come out with these deep theological "aha moments", but the sense of accomplishment and the way they saw how the Bible intertwines themes - it was very cool. Reading through the New Testament is a compromise for me...and an attainable goal.
2. Memorization I have tried to be consistent with memorization, even having a wonderful accountability partner. But busy schedules have derailed me after a few months. Also I tried to memorized large sections of the Bible in small time periods. So this year I am participating in Beth Moore's Living Proof memorization challenge on her blog. Memorize two verses every month for 12 months and there is a party at the end and prizes...I'm not ashamed to say that I will memorize for prizes! My first verse for the year:
And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you
are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Luke 12:7 NLT
I often feel insignificant, forgotten, unnecessary...I want to remember that I am valuable to God and ultimately He only should be where I find my worth.
3 comments:
Jennifer! I so needed this verse this morning. Maybe one day I can visit with you about the whys. Thanks for opening my eyes!!!
We were just talking about goals on the way to church today...Can you choose your own verse for the challenge or do you use the one posted on BM blog?
Thanks for the encouragement.
ps I read the Bible in a year from front to back. It was one of the BEST things I've ever done. I grew so much!
Follow the link to Beth's blog and she gives specific directions. You get to pick whatever verse you want. You just have to comment each time (twice a month) with your new verse and keep a notebook, index cards, whatever you want to use to keep all 24 verses together.
I tried last year, but didn't follow through...mainly because I picked large portions to memorize. This year I am going with Beth's suggestion and doing one verse twice a month.
Post a Comment