My friend Julie is kicking my behind into gear these days. She’s leading my women’s bible study and has determined that we each are responsible for memorizing a new verse or set of verses each week. We’re working through the book of James and must memorize something from each chapter. Not too hard, right? Afterall, I spent years of my life performing in plays and musicals—I can memorize with the best of them.

But here’s the clincher. Each week you have to recite all the verses you’ve memorized from previous weeks. So simple cramming doesn’t do the job. I’ve got to actually learn and, gasp!, remember this stuff (“stuff” meaning the Word of God). So in preparation for tonight I’ve recorded my chosen verses below. The last is a little sketchy, but there you have it, I’m trying. At least we’re only doing James (at this point). Don’t think I could make it through Psalms quite yet. ; )

James 1:2-3

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds for you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

James 2:12-13

Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be given to anyone who is not merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!

James 3:10-11

With the tongue we praise our God and Father and curse men, who are made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers this should not be.