We thought we would try to make a point this Christmas with our Billboard on Highway 72.
New Billboard Design
Each piece put on with prayer…
As I have been meditating, studying and memorizing Eph. 6:10-18 I have given much thought as to how one puts on the armor of God. While I think the key is to consciously recognize your position in Christ and to operate, renewing your mind in the Word and being filled with the Spirit – I also believe it is alway proper and good to pray God’s Word back to him. Here is a document I found where someone gathered the prayers of several men who routinely arm themselves through prayer. It’s not at all a bad idea to through prayer place each piece of armor in its place.
Introducing Manley Beasley
Having walked with Christ for 14 year I have repeatedly heard references and quotes of a man named, “Manley Beasley”. He was a “Revivalist” who went to be with the Lord in 1990. Beasley made a tremendous impact the Churches of our country and he had a unique ministry to Pastors. Thankfully we live in a time when the ministry of men like Manley Beasley can be captured and made available to this generation. So without further a due – meet Manley Beasley:
How to Memorize Scripture
In my 14 years walking with Christ I have not found any more helpful way of internalizing the Word of God than scripture memory. It helps me to clearly recognize and understand the author’s argument and intent. I am currently working on Ephesians 6:10-18, a familiure passage that should come relatively easy. I will be preaching a series on this passage over the coming weeks.
Here are some tips to help with memorization (Thanks to Frontline Ministries for many of the points)
- Break down the passage into logical chunks, I’ve done Ephesians 6:10-18 for you.
- Set aside at least 5-10 minutes a day to do nothing but Scripture memory.
- Say the verse/s out loud several times.
- Say the reference before and after.
- Add voice emphasis on certain words and phrases.
- Memorize word perfect (close enough isn’t good enough).
- Pray and ask God to enable you to memorize His Word.
- Read the verse in the Bible context.
- Try to gain a clear understanding of what the verse means. (You may want to read the verse in several translations and consult a commentary to get a better grasp of the meaning of the verse.)
- Meditate (reflect) on the verse (who, what, where, when, why, how).
- Personalize the verse (How does this apply to my life? Insert your name in place of pronouns like you, he, they, etc.)
- Visualize the verse (the words themselves and the meaning of the words).
- Think through the logical flow of thought in the verse/s. Notice what the subject of the passage and what is said about that subject. Notice the verbs and how they relate to the subject. Notice the order of events or ideas. Visualize the passage being acted out.
- Use the verse in prayer (Pray to God incorporating the verse into your prayer).
- Write out the verse a few times. Writing helps solidify the words in your mind.
- Make an audio recording of yourself reciting verses several times through to listen to as you drive your car or get ready in the morning.
- Write verses down on post-it notes and place them in places you will see them (on you computer monitor, refrigerator door, etc.).
- Use 3″ x 5″ cards to write the verse/s down. Put the reference on the back and the verse/s on the front. Write down the topic of the verse at the top corner.
- Make two stacks of cards: 1) One stack for verses you know but need to review occasionally; 2) Another stack for verses you’re still working on memorizing that you go over daily.
- Quote a new verse out loud at least seven times a day for one week, then twice a day for a week, then once a day, then once a week, then once a month.
- Use a partner to quiz each other frequently on your verses.
- Remember why you’re doing this! See Psalm 119:9-16, note especially verse 11.
- REVIEW! REVIEW! REVIEW! Repetition is the best way to engrave the verses on your memory.
