As a child, we didn't memorize scripture, and if I am being honest, I really didn't know much about Bible. I listened to our three readings at Mass and sang the responsorial Psalms. But I didn't know them, and I could not recite verses.
Over the past several years, reading the Bible has become a part of my spiritual life. Even if it ebbs and flows. I can now recite verses that hold special meaning to me, and some that "people say I should know."
This year, one of my goals is to read the entire Bible in chronological order. I am following a plan, like many others. I know that many people have started this on January 1 and have failed within a few days.
I think failure is part of any goal. But through this failure, I hope to find strength. I hope to build such a strong habit, that missing a day will only make me want to return.
The word strengthen is found in many verses in the Bible. This one in Isaiah 41:10 is one I am holding on to.
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Leigh Anne- it feels like strengthen is a prayer in itself. I am sure you will grow in strength through scripture and faith.
ReplyDeleteLeigh Anne, your statement about not knowing Bible verses by heart had me nodding my head. After listening to so many adults able to recite stories and verses from the Bible, I now listen to the readings with the ability to listen and learn. Will strength become your one word?
ReplyDeleteLeigh Anne, we all have inner strength that we don't always tap into. I think we are often amazed by the strength the pulls us through difficult situations. May your strength continue to grow throughout the coming year. Bob
ReplyDeleteLeigh Anne, I love Isaiah 41:10. It's a scripture I share frequently. I especially love that image of God upholding us with His right hand. I loved to walk with my mother, holding her hand. What a blessing to know that He is with us, will strengthen (great word!) us, help us and uphold us.
ReplyDeleteThis is Ramona, blessings on your journey to read the Bible this year!
DeleteStrengthen is a wonderful word for you as you process through the changes in your life. Reading the Bible is a lofty goal. I’ve taken it on in smaller doses, such as reading one book. I am glad you are connecting back with blogging and Spiritual Journey. I hope our posts will strengthen you this year.
ReplyDeleteLeigh Anne: KEEP GOING. This has happened to me, numerous times, trying to read the Bible from start to finish in a year and then getting quickly off track and feeling overwhelmed with 'catching it up.' Here's the thing...does it really, really matter if one gets in done in 365 days? Or 375, 385, 405? No! Just. Keep. Going. Reading it is what matters. Last year I read it all the way through, study notes included, and, for the first time, journaled as I went. Now I don't know what to do with myself, ha. (Go back and re-read, of course). I knew it was something I needed to do. I was, in fact, compelled to do it. You're right about it giving you a different kind of strength. What stood out to me over and over were constant examples of God's provision and God's sovereignty - over ALL, despite all. Keep going! With Him, all things are possible - keep going!
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