Weekly Memory Verse: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing, and perfect will." --Romans 12:2

Recently, I've felt convicted to no longer buy into the ways of the world, specifically "keeping up with the Joneses." It's a real challenge for me, and although I'm making headway (slowly), I still need this constant reminder from God. I am not to conFORM to this world; I'm meant to transFORM in Him. 

Weekly Memory Verse: "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." --Luke 6:37

Forgiveness may be one of God's commands that I struggle with the most. Often, when I say I've forgiven a person, I fail to treat them like they're forgiven, and my heart remains bitter as I continuously recall the hurt. What a truly awful cycle! The giving up of anger and pain, followed by true forgiveness, is a welcome release that pride attempts to hinder. I pray for instant recognition when my pride is surfacing and the forever desire to follow God's command to forgive, as I too need to be forgiven. 

Weekly Memory Verse: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. " --Galatians 5:22-23. 

Each week I've been choosing an area of need and then using scripture as guidance. Although it is beneficial to focus on my weak areas, one by one, acknowledging that God wants me to encompass ALL of the above qualities makes me realize the weight of the responsibilities I hold as a believer. I can't just be loving one week, gentle another, and patient the next. I need to radiate each of the nine elements of Christ if I am to be effective. Granted, I'm human, and I will fall short, but committing this verse to memory will allow me to quickly check myself in moments of sin and recall the characteristics that dwell in me through the Holy Spirit.