I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:11, English Standard Version)

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12, English Standard Version)

Introduction

Our third challenge recognizes the importance of God’s word.  With technological advancements, it is now very easy to find Bible verses on electronic devices even if you only have a few search parameters.  However, the benefits of being able to recall passages of Scripture from memory remain.  Too often we convince ourselves that memorization is an activity that we grow out of. Bible verse memorization helps us to “renew our mind” at any age.       

Challenge #3 – God’s Word 

Memorize the following 5 verses from Isaiah and Philippians over 5 days: 

Isaiah 26:3-4 (English Standard Version)

³ You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

⁴ Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.

Philippians 4:6-8 (English Standard Version)

⁶ do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 

⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for God’s help as you memorize the verses.
2. Read the verses in context to ensure you are comfortable with their application.
3. Partner with others (this is an excellent challenge to do in community).
4. You can use your favorite Bible translation (i.e., NIV, ESV, KJV, etc.)
5. Use an approach that fits your learning style.
6. Use physical memorization aids (e.g., notebooks and Post-it Notes).
7. Use digital memorization aids (e.g., mobile phones and voice recorders). There are also free, add-free Apps such as VerseLocker that focus on Bible verse memorization. 
8. Be alert to opportunities to share the memorized verses to help someone.
9. Incorporate the verses in your prayer.
10. Exact recall is not the objective.  The focus should be application.

I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:11, English Standard Version)

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12, English Standard Version)

Current Challenge (Days 11 – 16 of Lent)

I hope you are being blessed by our second Challenge (God’s Resources).  What a privilege it is to partner with God in the act of giving.

Introduction to New Challenge (Days 17 – 22 of Lent)

Our third challenge recognizes the importance of God’s word.  With technological advancements, it is now very easy to find Bible verses on electronic devices even if you only have a few search parameters.  However, the benefits of being able to recall passages of Scripture from memory remain.  Too often we convince ourselves that memorization is an activity that we grow out of. Bible verse memorization helps us to “renew our mind” at any age.       

Challenge #3 – God’s Word 

Memorize the following 5 verses from Isaiah and Philippians over 5 days: 

Isaiah 26:3-4 (English Standard Version)

³ You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

⁴ Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.

Philippians 4:6-8 (English Standard Version)

⁶ do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 

⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for God’s help as you memorize the verses.
2. Read the verses in context to ensure you are comfortable with their application.
3. Partner with others (this is an excellent challenge to do in community).
4. You can use your favorite Bible translation (i.e., NIV, ESV, KJV, etc.)
5. Use an approach that fits your learning style.
6. Use physical memorization aids (e.g., notebooks and Post-it Notes).
7. Use digital memorization aids (e.g., mobile phones and voice recorders). There are also free, add-free Apps such as VerseLocker that focus on Bible verse memorization. 
8. Be alert to opportunities to share the memorized verses to help someone.
9. Incorporate the verses in your prayer.
10. Exact recall is not the objective.  The focus should be application.

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35, English Standard Version)

Introduction

Our second challenge recognizes that God blesses us with many resources and opportunities to bless others for His glory.  Often when Christians think about giving as an act of stewardship, focus is placed on tithes and offerings.  Giving to local churches is an essential Christian act, which should be done with love.  There are also other opportunities to demonstrate our love for God and others by giving.  These “other” forms of giving are the subject of our new challenge.       

Challenge #2 – God’s Resources 

From the 10 options below, select five acts of giving and perform them over five days: 

1. Neighbor Favor – Do your neighbor an unexpected favor.
2. Meals on Wheels – Prepare/buy a meal and deliver it to someone in need.
3. Words of Encouragement – Write a note/letter to someone who could use some encouragement.
4. Mission Possible – Donate to a missionary or missionary group.
5. Covered Chores – Perform a chore in your household that someone else usually does.
6. Spare some Time – Donate your time to a charitable cause.
7. Make that Call – Call someone you have not called for a long time who would love to have a listening ear. 
8. Disaster Relief – Donate to an organization working to alleviate the effects of human made or natural disasters. 
9. Least of These – Perform an act of kindness to a vulnerable individual/group (e.g., shut-in elderly, homeless person, or vulnerable immigrant).
10. Pass it On – Find something in your home that you seldom/never use and give it to someone who currently needs it.   

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for guidance as you decide on your gifts and the recipients.
2. Plan each gift to make it as impactful as possible.
3. Use the giving activity as a relationship builder.
4. Find a way to let the recipient of the gift know that God is the ultimate source of good things.
5. Share the gospel message if the opportunity arises.
6. Consider including a Bible verse with your gift.
7. Meditate on Scripture passages about stewardship and kindness.
8. Perform an act of kindness as a family.
9. Pray for the recipients of your gifts.
10. Thank God for His many blessings.

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35, English Standard Version)

Introduction

Our second challenge recognizes that God blesses us with many resources and opportunities to bless others for His glory.  Often when Christians think about giving as an act of stewardship, focus is placed on tithes and offerings.  Giving to local churches is an essential Christian act, which should be done with love.  There are also other opportunities to demonstrate our love for God and others by giving.  These “other” forms of giving are the subject of our new challenge.       

Challenge #2 – God’s Resources 

From the 10 options below, select five acts of giving and perform them over five days: 

1. Neighbor Favor – Do your neighbor an unexpected favor.
2. Meals on Wheels – Prepare/buy a meal and deliver it to someone in need.
3. Words of Encouragement – Write a note/letter to someone who could use some encouragement.
4. Mission Possible – Donate to a missionary or missionary group.
5. Covered Chores – Perform a chore in your household that someone else usually does.
6. Spare some Time – Donate your time to a charitable cause.
7. Make that Call – Call someone you have not called for a long time who would love to have a listening ear. 
8. Disaster Relief – Donate to an organization working to alleviate the effects of human made or natural disasters. 
9. Least of These – Perform an act of kindness to a vulnerable individual/group (e.g., shut-in elderly, homeless person, or vulnerable immigrant).
10. Pass it On – Find something in your home that you seldom/never use and give it to someone who currently needs it.   

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for guidance as you decide on your gifts and the recipients.
2. Plan each gift to make it as impactful as possible.
3. Use the giving activity as a relationship builder.
4. Find a way to let the recipient of the gift know that God is the ultimate source of good things.
5. Share the gospel message if the opportunity arises.
6. Consider including a Bible verse with your gift.
7. Meditate on Scripture passages about stewardship and kindness.
8. Perform an act of kindness as a family.
9. Pray for the recipients of your gifts.
10. Thank God for His many blessings.

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35, English Standard Version)

Introduction

Our second challenge recognizes that God blesses us with many resources and opportunities to bless others for His glory.  Often when Christians think about giving as an act of stewardship, focus is placed on tithes and offerings.  Giving to local churches is an essential Christian act, which should be done with love.  There are also other opportunities to demonstrate our love for God and others by giving.  These “other” forms of giving are the subject of our new challenge.       

Challenge #2 – God’s Resources 

From the 10 options below, select five acts of giving and perform them over five days: 

1. Neighbor Favor – Do your neighbor an unexpected favor.
2. Meals on Wheels – Prepare/buy a meal and deliver it to someone in need.
3. Words of Encouragement – Write a note/letter to someone who could use some encouragement.
4. Mission Possible – Donate to a missionary or missionary group.
5. Covered Chores – Perform a chore in your household that someone else usually does.
6. Spare some Time – Donate your time to a charitable cause.
7. Make that Call – Call someone you have not called for a long time who would love to have a listening ear. 
8. Disaster Relief – Donate to an organization working to alleviate the effects of human made or natural disasters. 
9. Least of These – Perform an act of kindness to a vulnerable individual/group (e.g., shut-in elderly, homeless person, or vulnerable immigrant).
10. Pass it On – Find something in your home that you seldom/never use and give it to someone who currently needs it.   

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for guidance as you decide on your gifts and the recipients.
2. Plan each gift to make it as impactful as possible.
3. Use the giving activity as a relationship builder.
4. Find a way to let the recipient of the gift know that God is the ultimate source of good things.
5. Share the gospel message if the opportunity arises.
6. Consider including a Bible verse with your gift.
7. Meditate on Scripture passages about stewardship and kindness.
8. Perform an act of kindness as a family.
9. Pray for the recipients of your gifts.
10. Thank God for His many blessings.

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35, English Standard Version)

Introduction

Our second challenge recognizes that God blesses us with many resources and opportunities to bless others for His glory.  Often when Christians think about giving as an act of stewardship, focus is placed on tithes and offerings.  Giving to local churches is an essential Christian act, which should be done with love.  There are also other opportunities to demonstrate our love for God and others by giving.  These “other” forms of giving are the subject of our new challenge.       

Challenge #2 – God’s Resources 

From the 10 options below, select five acts of giving and perform them over five days: 

1. Neighbor Favor – Do your neighbor an unexpected favor.
2. Meals on Wheels – Prepare/buy a meal and deliver it to someone in need.
3. Words of Encouragement – Write a note/letter to someone who could use some encouragement.
4. Mission Possible – Donate to a missionary or missionary group.
5. Covered Chores – Perform a chore in your household that someone else usually does.
6. Spare some Time – Donate your time to a charitable cause.
7. Make that Call – Call someone you have not called for a long time who would love to have a listening ear. 
8. Disaster Relief – Donate to an organization working to alleviate the effects of human made or natural disasters. 
9. Least of These – Perform an act of kindness to a vulnerable individual/group (e.g., shut-in elderly, homeless person, or vulnerable immigrant).
10. Pass it On – Find something in your home that you seldom/never use and give it to someone who currently needs it.   

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for guidance as you decide on your gifts and the recipients.
2. Plan each gift to make it as impactful as possible.
3. Use the giving activity as a relationship builder.
4. Find a way to let the recipient of the gift know that God is the ultimate source of good things.
5. Share the gospel message if the opportunity arises.
6. Consider including a Bible verse with your gift.
7. Meditate on Scripture passages about stewardship and kindness.
8. Perform an act of kindness as a family.
9. Pray for the recipients of your gifts.
10. Thank God for His many blessings.

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35, English Standard Version)

Current Challenge (Days 5 – 10 of Lent)

I hope you are being blessed by our first Challenge (God’s Time).  Thanks to those who shared thoughts from their quiet time and shared tips for having effective quiet time!

Introduction to New Challenge (Days 11 – 16 of Lent)

Our second challenge recognizes that God blesses us with many resources and opportunities to bless others for His glory.  Often when Christians think about giving as an act of stewardship, focus is placed on tithes and offerings.  Giving to local churches is an essential Christian act, which should be done with love.  There are also other opportunities to demonstrate our love for God and others by giving.  These “other” forms of giving are the subject of our new challenge.       

Challenge #2 – God’s Resources 

From the 10 options below, select five acts of giving and perform them over five days: 

1. Neighbor Favor – Do your neighbor an unexpected favor.
2. Meals on Wheels – Prepare/buy a meal and deliver it to someone in need.
3. Words of Encouragement – Write a note/letter to someone who could use some encouragement.
4. Mission Possible – Donate to a missionary or missionary group.
5. Covered Chores – Perform a chore in your household that someone else usually does.
6. Spare some Time – Donate your time to a charitable cause.
7. Make that Call – Call someone you have not called for a long time who would love to have a listening ear. 
8. Disaster Relief – Donate to an organization working to alleviate the effects of human made or natural disasters. 
9. Least of These – Perform an act of kindness to a vulnerable individual/group (e.g., shut-in elderly, homeless person, or vulnerable immigrant).
10. Pass it On – Find something in your home that you seldom/never use and give it to someone who currently needs it.   

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for guidance as you decide on your gifts and the recipients.
2. Plan each gift to make it as impactful as possible.
3. Use the giving activity as a relationship builder.
4. Find a way to let the recipient of the gift know that God is the ultimate source of good things.
5. Share the gospel message if the opportunity arises.
6. Consider including a Bible verse with your gift.
7. Meditate on Scripture passages about stewardship and kindness.
8. Perform an act of kindness as a family.
9. Pray for the recipients of your gifts.
10. Thank God for His many blessings.

And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. (Mark 1:35, English Standard Version). 

Introduction

The Psalmist David said, “my times are in your hand” (Psalm 31:15) – a reminder that all that concerns us is in God’s control.  So, it is vital and logical that we spend quality time hearing from, talking to, and thinking about God.  This challenge is not about iron-clad rules.  However, there are some clear guidelines included with the Challenge to avoid confusion. 

The “10 Tips to Consider” below are entirely discretionary but they are widely recognized as helpful. Remember our Group Bible study about pursuing godly example. 

If you find the Challenge easy, share your success story with others. If you struggle with the Challenge don’t be discouraged, pick yourself up and try again. You have a supportive community with you.

The Challenge – God’s Time 

• For five days, spend at least 20 minutes in Bible study, Prayer and Reflection without any distractions or disruptions. 
• Please be sure to spend time in Bible study, not just cursory reading.  Invest the time to understand what you are reading so that you can apply it. 
• The Bible study can be a topical study (i.e., a theme from multiple Scripture passages) or a passage/book study. If you are already engaged in a Bible study you can use it for the Challenge. 
• Your time in prayer must be more than a “asking for favors” session.
• Feel free to incorporate music, but it should not serve as a distraction.

10 Tips to Consider

1. Block time out in your calendar.
2. Plan how you are going to spend your time (e.g., a selected Bible study, a prayer list, and selected song).
3. Don’t select a time of the day when you are typically tired.
4. Find a space that is conducive to uninterrupted quiet time and use this space consistently if you can.
5. Ensure that your electronic devices don’t serve as a distraction.
6. Start by praying for guidance.
7. Keep an electronic or hard copy journal of your activity so you can reflect on it in the future.
8. Solicit tips from a Christian friend who you know is consistent with their quiet time.
9. Share useful tips to encourage others.
10. Be accountable to a person or group.

I pray that you will find this Challenge enriching. Feel free to share any thoughts as you go through the Challenge.

And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. (Mark 1:35, English Standard Version). 

Introduction

The Psalmist David said, “my times are in your hand” (Psalm 31:15) – a reminder that all that concerns us is in God’s control.  So, it is vital and logical that we spend quality time hearing from, talking to, and thinking about God.  This challenge is not about iron-clad rules.  However, there are some clear guidelines included with the Challenge to avoid confusion. 

The “10 Tips to Consider” below are entirely discretionary but they are widely recognized as helpful. Remember our Group Bible study about pursuing godly example. 

If you find the Challenge easy, share your success story with others. If you struggle with the Challenge don’t be discouraged, pick yourself up and try again. You have a supportive community with you.

The Challenge – God’s Time 

• For five days, spend at least 20 minutes in Bible study, Prayer and Reflection without any distractions or disruptions. 
• Please be sure to spend time in Bible study, not just cursory reading.  Invest the time to understand what you are reading so that you can apply it. 
• The Bible study can be a topical study (i.e., a theme from multiple Scripture passages) or a passage/book study. If you are already engaged in a Bible study you can use it for the Challenge. 
• Your time in prayer must be more than a “asking for favors” session.
• Feel free to incorporate music, but it should not serve as a distraction.

10 Tips to Consider

1. Block time out in your calendar.
2. Plan how you are going to spend your time (e.g., a selected Bible study, a prayer list, and selected song).
3. Don’t select a time of the day when you are typically tired.
4. Find a space that is conducive to uninterrupted quiet time and use this space consistently if you can.
5. Ensure that your electronic devices don’t serve as a distraction.
6. Start by praying for guidance.
7. Keep an electronic or hard copy journal of your activity so you can reflect on it in the future.
8. Solicit tips from a Christian friend who you know is consistent with their quiet time.
9. Share useful tips to encourage others.
10. Be accountable to a person or group.

I pray that you will find this Challenge enriching. Feel free to share any thoughts as you go through the Challenge.

And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. (Mark 1:35, English Standard Version). 

Introduction

The Psalmist David said, “my times are in your hand” (Psalm 31:15) – a reminder that all that concerns us is in God’s control.  So, it is vital and logical that we spend quality time hearing from, talking to, and thinking about God.  This challenge is not about iron-clad rules.  However, there are some clear guidelines included with the Challenge to avoid confusion. 

The “10 Tips to Consider” below are entirely discretionary but they are widely recognized as helpful. Remember our Group Bible study about pursuing godly example. 

If you find the Challenge easy, share your success story with others. If you struggle with the Challenge don’t be discouraged, pick yourself up and try again. You have a supportive community with you.

The Challenge – God’s Time 

• For five days, spend at least 20 minutes in Bible study, Prayer and Reflection without any distractions or disruptions. 
• Please be sure to spend time in Bible study, not just cursory reading.  Invest the time to understand what you are reading so that you can apply it. 
• The Bible study can be a topical study (i.e., a theme from multiple Scripture passages) or a passage/book study. If you are already engaged in a Bible study you can use it for the Challenge. 
• Your time in prayer must be more than a “asking for favors” session.
• Feel free to incorporate music, but it should not serve as a distraction.

10 Tips to Consider

1. Block time out in your calendar.
2. Plan how you are going to spend your time (e.g., a selected Bible study, a prayer list, and selected song).
3. Don’t select a time of the day when you are typically tired.
4. Find a space that is conducive to uninterrupted quiet time and use this space consistently if you can.
5. Ensure that your electronic devices don’t serve as a distraction.
6. Start by praying for guidance.
7. Keep an electronic or hard copy journal of your activity so you can reflect on it in the future.
8. Solicit tips from a Christian friend who you know is consistent with their quiet time.
9. Share useful tips to encourage others.
10. Be accountable to a person or group.

I pray that you will find this Challenge enriching. Feel free to share any thoughts as you go through the Challenge.