A goal for the New Year… will you join me? by Michele Laccabue

Michele Laccabue leads a women's home team here at Church at the Bay and is super pumped when women take their next steps with God. 

The beginning of a new year typically is a time to reflect, a time to hope, and a great time to set goals to improve some aspect of our life.  As a Christ follower, we learn quickly that we cannot “do life” very well without God.  Thankfully, the power of prayer and the Bible are available to guide and equip us each day. 

For the word of God is living and active.  Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

The Bible is unlike any other book.  It is alive.  Its words speak to us when we read it and, again, when we recall it.  In order to recall it, we have to make the choice to “write them (His words) on the "tablet of our hearts” (Proverbs 3:3).   

What does that mean?  It means that God is asking us to dig into the Bible, study the scriptures, and memorize His words.  If we imprint His words on our hearts, they will come to mind when we need them.  He promises this choice is exciting and life-changing.

Will you join me in setting a goal to memorize at least one scripture passage per month this year?

Plan to choose verses that speak directly to your current circumstance or season.   If you are at a loss and don’t know where to start, pray and ask God to speak to you through His Word.  Start reading the Bible and WHEN a verse stands out to you…STOP!  He may be speaking to you right there.  Write it down and mediate on it.  Make a choice to “write it on your heart” (yes, memorize it).  If you don’t know where to start reading in the Bible, try reading from the passages mentioned in our Sunday services.

I plan to write each of my verses in my index card spiral (one with pretty paper is preferred) so I can take it wherever I go and memorize His words.  By the end of the year, the pages will be lovingly worn and filled with words that are now

written on my heart.  Will you join me?  I’d love to hear from you if you accept the challenge.

Your sister in Christ,   

Michele Laccabue  

mlaccabue@tampabay.rr.com

Humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.  James 1:21b