James 1:2-3
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
I am facing a difficult situation in my life. It has nothing to do with a health problem or any major crisis. It has to do with a mind that does not memorize anywhere near as well as when I was younger. What I once could memorize in minutes now takes me hours to set firmly in my memory bank.
Many years ago I memorized the book of James. It was a joy to allow the words flow through my mind as I prayed and meditated. But, I failed to maintain a discipline of reciting the words over and over. I used portions of the book, but the discipline of memorization and repetition fell by the wayside.
This is where my problem now arises. What would have been easier if I had kept my commitment to memorize is now brain twisting. I am able to memorize, but the cost of time and effort is multiplied.
Is this a trial? I don’t think so. It is a consequence. As I see it, a trial is something that happens to us that is beyond our control. A consequence on the other hand is the result of a failure in our life. I have confessed to the Lord about my sin of neglect and He has graciously forgiven me. BUT, I still face the difficult task of re-memorizing what I once had in my mind.
There is a beautiful blessing that the Lord has graciously bestowed upon me. It seems that because of the extra effort in memorizing His Word I am able to perceive new truths that had escaped me before. It is no longer simply memorizing, it is now feasting at the Lord’s table. Praise His name!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil (360) 570-0074
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