Remember me telling you about the scripture memory challenge I accepted for 2009? (If you missed that, this post gives the details.) Beth Moore encouraged readers of her LPM blog to memorize or seriously meditate on two scriptures each month this year, and I decided to give it a go. We post our scriptures on her blog on the 1st and 15th of the month. So far I’m keeping up.
In one of her follow-up posts, Beth advised us to select verses that would be important to us in some way or have special meaning for us at this point in time. Since my life has been pretty stressful since then, I’ve chosen a couple of scriptures that offer comfort and peace. On February 15th, though, God brought a verse to my attention that perfectly captures my heart’s desire concerning my writing.
I wasn’t sure what my new verse would be when the 15th rolled around, but that soon changed. As I was reading the day’s devotion in Daily Devotions for Writers, I came across Deuteronomy 32:2. I know I’ve read it before because I’ve read the Bible completely through in years past, but it sprang off the page with new and personal meaning now. Now I was looking at it through the eyes of a writer.
In the NIV, Deut. 32:2 says, “Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.” Ah yes, that’s what I want my words to do. That’s my heart’s desire.
Even though I don’t do indepth teaching through my writing, I do want my words to bring refreshment, encouragement, and yes, even some life lessons to those who read them. This verse, in fact, beautifully reflects the tag line, or brand statement, I already use: Cheryl Barker — Refreshing Spirits, Nourishing Souls.
I’m so thankful God led me to this verse a couple of weeks ago. I feel like I’ve discovered a valuable jewel — a life verse, if you will, for my writing life. I pray that this verse, my heart’s desire, will be realized from time to time in the lives of all who read my words. I pray that you, dear friend, will be refreshed, encouraged, or nourished by something you read here sometime.
My prayer? “Lord, thank You for the words You give me to share with others. Bless those who read them. ‘Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.’ May You receive all praise, Father. May You be glorified through us all. Amen.
“But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.” Job 16:5
*Personal update: Don’s mom doesn’t feel well much of the time, but she hasn’t had to be hospitalized again yet. We’re so thankful for each day out of the hospital. Thank you for your prayers!
*Flickr photo by Perry McKenna
Cheryl, you would be surprised how many times I’ve checked your blog and found just the right verse or post that just fit my situation. I’m really glad you started this blog and encourage you to keep at it. I for one have had many blessings from it.
Mom, your life, along with your writing, is an encouragement to me. You’ve seen me through many things and I’m thankful the Lord has always used you to minister to me and bless my life through your words.
That is a beautiful verse, Cheryl! Thank you for sharing it. And like the other two ladies have said, you ARE an encouragement. Your words are always refreshing and uplifting. Thank you.
Still praying for your mother-in-law. Praise God she has stayed out of the hospital for a while!
Your words are so encouraging. I continue to lift your M-I-L in prayer.
Annette
Cheryl,
Thank you for visiting my blog! I agree with you about Gone with the Wind!
And your writing is beautiful! God Bless!
That is a priceless verse, Cheryl. Just reading it here helps me experience it in 3-D…rain falling, the wet and nourishment of God’s Word in our hearts and lives and through your pen.
Truly, a lovely verse to choose, and one I’m heading over to read more about tonight as I come to the close of my day.
What’s your March 1st verse? I’ve just selected mine but will work on it some more before sharing it.
Thanks for leading us to the heart of God through yours!
peace~elaine
Thanks, gals, for all the precious comments. Each one is an encouragement to me!
Mandi, thanks for coming over to visit my blog. Hope you’ll come again!
Elaine, my March 1st verse is back to one of peace and comfort. “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11 NIV
May He bless us all with His strength and peace!