Exodus Family

• Jan. 1, 2007 - Bible Memory - A Bit About How We Do It

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
I print out the verses in LARGE print and we post them throughout the house, we review the current & previous daily, we use them as our handwriting practice (I put them in Start Write), and we study them... any significant words are pulled out and each child has 1-3 words per week that they complete a study form on... definition, synonyms, antonyms, and concordance work. During devotions we go over the verse and each child shares their words they studied. We try to review ALL previous verses at least once a week to keep them sharp.

Note this is the master list we are drawing from. I need to count how many verses this is.... We will be working on this list for a few years. This is the list we want our dc to have memorized before they leave our home.

*If* there were 500 verses for instance our goal would be to go through this list every 5 yrs.... If 300 verses every 3 years... If 700 verses every 7 yrs.

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• Jan. 1, 2007 - Scripture Memory Part 3

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
I Timothy 2:1-4 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

I Timothy 2:8-15 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. Nevertheless she will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.

I Timothy 3:2-7 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

I Timothy 3:8-13 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

2 Timothy 2:22-26 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.

Titus 1:6-9 An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless--not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

Titus 2:1-2 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience

Titus 2:3-5 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

Titus 2:6-8 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.

Titus 2:11-15 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.

Titus 3:1-2 Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.

Titus 3:8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.

Hebrews 11:1-3 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

Hebrews 11:4-7 By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith

Hebrews 11:8-12 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude—innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.

Hebrews 11:13-16 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.

Hebrews 11:17-22 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, “In Isaac your seed shall be called,” concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones.

Hebrews 11:23-29 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s command. By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin,  esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, lest he who destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned.

Hebrews 11:30-34 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace. And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

Hebrews 11:35-40 Women received their dead raised to life again. Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented— of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth. And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.

Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord

James 3:13-18 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, physical, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

James 4:7-8 and 10 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.

I Peter 3:1-6 Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.

1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.

I Peter 3:8-9 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

I Peter 3:15-17 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

I Peter 4:9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.

I Peter 5:5-7 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”  Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

I Peter 5:8-9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.

I John 1:8-10 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.

I John 2:3-4 Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

1 John 2:12-14 I write to you, little children, Because your sins are forgiven you for His name's sake. I write to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, Because you have overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, Because you have known the Father. I have written to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, Because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, And you have overcome the wicked one.

I John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.  And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

I John 4:20-21 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

I John 5:3-4 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
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• Jan. 1, 2007 - Scripture Memory Part 2

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
Matthew 5:2-12 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.

Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:17-20 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 5:21-24 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Matthew 5:33-37 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.’ 34 But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.

Matthew 7:12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 18:3-5 “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.

Matthew 18:6-7  “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!

Matthew 20:26-28 Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—  just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Matthew 22:21 “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

Matthew 22:35-40 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Mark 14:38  Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.

Luke 8:17 For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

John 14:15 If you love Me, keep My commandments.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Romans 12:9-21 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;  distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.  Therefore “ If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink;For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 14:10-13 But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written: “As I live, says the LORD, Every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall confess to God.” So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.

Romans 16:19 For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil.

I Corinthians 11:3-5 But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved.

I Corinthians 11:6-10 For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. For man is not from woman, but woman from man. Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man. For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.

I Corinthians 11:11-15 Nevertheless, neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man, in the Lord. For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God. Judge among yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him? But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering.

I Corinthians 14:34-35 Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.

1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

2 Corinthians 6:14 Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ

Galations 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Galations 5:25-26 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

Galations  6:2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Galations  6:9-10 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Ephesians 4:31-32 Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

Ephesians 5:8-12 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret.

Ephesians 5:15-17 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Ephesians 5:22-24 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.

Ephesians 5:25, 28-29 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.

Ephesians 6:1-3 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with promise: that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth."

Philippians 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:14-15 Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe

Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.

Colossians 3:1-11 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them. But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.  Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.

Colossians 3:12-17 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Colossians 3:18-25 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them. Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.

1 Thessalonians 4:11 We urge you brothers that you also want to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you,

1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

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• Jan. 1, 2007 - Scripture Memory Part 1

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
The last few days I have been working on revamping and expanding our list of family memory verses. I think this is going to be an ongoing project, but I wanted to put up what we have so far.

A friend recently asked me *why and how*? Very good question.
Let me start with *why* -
 
Psalm 119:11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.
 
Psalm 119:15-16 I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.
 
Ephesians 16:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
 
Besides the verses above... we look over and over and over again at Jesus saying "it is written". He did not pull out a Bible and look these things up... he KNEW the Word. It was a ready and sharpened and polished sword... and we are to strive to emulate Him.
 
We are also currently blessed in this country with a ready supply of Bibles, but that might not always be the case...they can take our Bibles.. but not His Word in our hearts...
 
And... we hear often of pows who survived through singing hymns and quoting Scripture to themselves...
 
So anyway... it is our desire to help us and our dc to hide as much of God's Words in our/their hearts as possible. And not just individual verses, but portions of Scripture... important truths about God and how we are to live.
 
Honestly... I cannot remember how I made the first list. Originally the goal was a list of Scriptures by gender... and we'll still focus there somewhat, but we wanted to focus more on memorizing as a family. So I am working at expanding the lists. I started with verses from For Instruction in Righteousness and wrote all the references down, then I started looking them up at Bible Gateway. Some were taken pretty far out of context when I looked... so I started looking at chapters and pulling things out... then an idea would jump out from one and I'd do a keyword search.... and the list grew and continues to grow.

I am not real big on *New Years Resolutions*, but as a family we have set a goal for this year... To memorize 100 new verses. This seems very doable. At 100 verses per year in 5 years that is 500 verses, in 10 years that is 1,000. That seems rather overwhelming... so we'll take this one week, 1 year at a time.

Genesis 1:27-28 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”

Genesis 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.

Genesis 9:1 So God blessed Noah and his sons, and said to them: “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth.

Genesis 9:7 And as for you, be fruitful and multiply; Bring forth abundantly in the earth And multiply in it.

Genesis 33:5 And he lifted his eyes and saw the women and children, and said, “Who are these with you?” So he said, “The children whom God has graciously given your servant.”

Exodus 15:2 The LORD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation; He is my God, and I will praise Him; My father's God, and I will exalt Him

Exodus 20:1-17 The Ten Commandments And God spoke all these words: "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. "You shall have no other gods before me.  (Loving the Lord) "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form  of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments. (Loving the Lord) "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.  (Loving the Lord) Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.  (Loving the Lord) "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. (Love your neighbor) "You shall not murder. (Love your neighbor) "You shall not commit adultery. (Love your neighbor) "You shall not steal. (Love your neighbor) "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. (Love your neighbor) "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."(Love your neighbor)

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

Deuteronomy 4:1-2 “Now, O Israel, listen to the statutes and the judgments which I teach you to observe, that you may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers is giving you. You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.

Deuteronomy 4:4-8 “Surely I have taught you statutes and judgments, just as the LORD my God commanded me, that you should act according to them in the land which you go to possess. Therefore be careful to observe them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes, and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ “For what great nation is there that has God so near to it, as the LORD our God is to us, for whatever reason we may call upon Him? And what great nation is there that has such statutes and righteous judgments as are in all this law which I set before you this day?

Deuteronomy 4:9 Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren

Deuteronomy 22:5 “A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the LORD your God.

Psalm 1:1-2 Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;  But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.

Psalm 19:7-11 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, And in keeping them there is great reward.
Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.

Psalm 23 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Psalm 40:4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.

Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Psalm 78:1-4 Give ear, O my people, to my law; Incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings of old, Which we have heard and known, And our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, Telling to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.

Psalm 78:5-6 For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children,

Psalm 78:7-8 That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments; And may not be like their fathers, A stubborn and rebellious generation, A generation that did not set its heart aright, And whose spirit was not faithful to God.

Psalm 111:7-9 The works of His hands are verity and justice; All His precepts are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, And are done in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever: Holy and awesome is His name.

Psalm 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.

Psalm 119:11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.

Psalm 119:34-37 Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law; Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies, And not to covetousness. Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, And revive me in Your way

Psalm 119:97-98 Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day. You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies; For they are ever with me.

Psalm 119:103-104 How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through Your precepts I get understanding; Therefore I hate every false way.

Psalm 127:3-5 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them;

Psalm 127 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat- for he grants sleep to those he loves. Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.

Psalm 128 Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. Thus is the man blessed who fears the LORD. May the LORD bless you from Zion all the days of your life; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem, and may you live to see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel.

Psalm 139:13-16 For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret,  And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.

Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 141:3-4 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, To practice wicked works With men who work iniquity; And do not let me eat of their delicacies.

Proverbs 1:7-8 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction. My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother;

Proverbs 2:1-6 My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding

Proverbs 3:5-7 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.

Proverbs 4:10-12 Hear, my son, and receive my sayings, And the years of your life will be many. I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, And when you run, you will not stumble.

Proverbs 4:14-15 Do not enter the path of the wicked, And do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it, do not travel on it; Turn away from it and pass on.

Proverbs 4:24 Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.

Proverbs 4:26-27 Ponder the path of your feet, And let all your ways be established. Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil.

Proverbs 6:16-19 These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.

Proverbs 6:20-23 My son, keep your father’s command, And do not forsake the law of your mother. Bind them continually upon your heart; Tie them around your neck. When you roam, they will lead you; When you sleep, they will keep you; And when you awake, they will speak with you. For the commandment is a lamp, And the law a light; Reproofs of instruction are the way of life

Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.

Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.

Proverbs 12:10 A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

Proverbs 12:22 The LORD hates lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.

Proverbs 13:1 A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

Proverbs 13:18 Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction, But he who regards a rebuke will be honored.

Proverbs 13:20 He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed.

Proverbs 13:24 He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.

Proverbs 14:16 A wise man fears the LORD and avoids evil, but a fool rages and is arrogant.

Proverbs 14:26  He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.

Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:5 A fool despises his father's instruction, But he who receives correction is prudent.

Proverbs 15:19 The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns, But the way of the upright is a highway.

Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, And your thoughts will be established.

Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.

Proverbs 16:25 There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

Proverbs 16:31 The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, If it is found in the way of righteousness.

Proverbs 16:32 Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.

Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is there for you in adversity.

Proverbs 17:27 He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.

Proverbs 18:13 He who answers before listening- that is his folly and his shame.

Proverbs 21:21 He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness, and honor.

Proverbs 21:23 Whoever guards his mouth and tongue Keeps his soul from troubles

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 23:17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but live in the fear of the LORD always.

Proverbs 24:1-2 Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them; For their heart devises violence, And their lips talk of troublemaking.

Proverbs 26:18-19 Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death, Is the man who deceives his neighbor, And says, "I was only joking!"

Proverbs 28:13 He who hides his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

Proverbs 29:1 He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, Will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

Proverbs 29:11 A fool vents all his feelings, But a wise man holds them back.

Proverbs 29:15 The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

Proverbs 29:17 Correct your son, and he will give you rest; Yes, he will give delight to your soul.
Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; But happy is he who keeps the law.

Proverbs 29:22-23 An angry man stirs up strife, And a furious man abounds in transgression. A man’s pride will bring him low, But the humble in spirit will retain honor.

Proverbs 31:10-31Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil All the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, And willingly works with her hands. She is like the merchant ships, She brings her food from afar. She also rises while it is yet night, And provides food for her household, And a portion for her maidservants. She considers a field and buys it; From her profits she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength, And strengthens her arms. She perceives that her merchandise is good, And her lamp does not go out by night. She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hand holds the spindle. She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of snow for her household, For all her household is clothed with scarlet. She makes tapestry for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Her husband is known in the gates, When he sits among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them,And supplies sashes for the merchants. Strength and honor are her clothing; She shall rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, And on her tongue is the law of kindness. She watches over the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: “ Many daughters have done well, But you excel them all.” Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 To everything there is a season,  A time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted; A time to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up; A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones; A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing; A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to throw away; A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to keep silence, And a time to speak; A time to love, And a time to hate; A time of war, And a time of peace.

Isaiah 40:29-31 He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 54:13 All your children shall be taught of the LORD, And great shall be the peace of your children.

Jeremiah 10:2 Thus says the LORD: “Do not learn the way of the heathens; Do not be dismayed at the signs of heaven, For the heathens are dismayed at them.

Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; Because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.

Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?
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• Dec. 27, 2006 - Secret Service Agents - problem and an *update*

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
This is so embarrasing. When we drew this week, I looked at Caleb's & Molly's to help guide them.... then as soon as we were done I forgot Caleb's... and he did not know (to avoid him blurting in the group).

So we had to redraw.

So I wrote down Molly's & Caleb's...

Good so far...

BUT.












I now forgot who am SSA to!  {{blush}}



I have always had a great memory... but... no more. It is TERRIBLE.

I guess I need to serve all except Molly's and Caleb's this week. LOL

In spite of my *mental breakdown*

SSA is going incredibly well.... all the dc are still greatly enjoying blessing each other.

And this has been just the idea to *reach* Aaron. He is simply shining at this. He has truly caught the spirit of it.

Last week to *throw* everyone off... he was blessing others besides his assignee... to *confuse* people he said. He is REALLY enjoying blessing *secretly* his assignee as much as he can.

AND it is spilling over into his attitude and behaviour in other ways throughout the day.





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• Dec. 19, 2006 - Amazing Race??

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
I am seeing lots of slacking....in chores. Oh they are doing them... just not *quite* completely. Missing the edges kind of thing. Now I could go about this a few ways... crack down on each to fully do their rm assignments is one option (one I use at times). Another is they tag team rm by rm until done. I kinda like that option, but it really can take awhile...

So today.... I need a catchy title for this... beat the clock? Hmmm no because that does not fit... Title suggestions WELCOME. What about the Amazing Race? I know that is a show (not one I've ever seen so it might not *fit*, but it sounds good....)

Anyway

In 45 min increments Becca (17), Aaron (13), and Isaac(11) are to work as hard and as fast as they can together on 1 rm. When the buzzer goes off that is it. They will collect goodies at the end of each buzzer

mini candy bar
homemade cookies
scoop of ice cream
game certificate

Now note I did not say if the rm was done. I do not think most will be done in 45min, but we'll play again on Th. I try to be very very concrete in my expectations especially to start out... but my older 3 are to a point where I can if I need to say just show me you are working hard. In the past as we were gearing up I would have set specific tasks.

Goals today - liv rm., din rm, kitchen, hall (maybe), and possibly boys rm....

What will momma be doing? Taking care of the younger 3 and helping Molly with scarves. I'd rather have Molly working with them... but I am hoping to get the scarves done today and crossed off.

But first *regular* chores must be complete. The boys are a bit behind. Usually they are out doing animal chores before momma gets up (I prefer to get up earlier, but Micah prefers to get up during the night). However, today I got up to 4 dc playing cars together on the liv rm floor... Caleb (4), Molly (8), Isaac (11), and Aaron (13).

Gentlechildren... start... your... engines!!!!!!!!!
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• Dec. 17, 2006 - Secret Service Agents

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
Last week I had a thought!

A twist on *secret sisters*....

On Saturday evening (the start of a new week) we drew names... Mom, Dad, and the 5 oldest dc (17, 13, 11, 8, and almost 5)....

For 1 week.... you bless the person quietly and secretly who's name you drew. You can write secret notes, surprise them by doing a chore, make them a special goodie, etc...
 
I thought Secret Service Agents would appeal to my plethora of males... 
 
We drew names that first night.. and because it is hard to keep secrets from mom... I knew or figured out who had each person.

Aaron (13) is my child who struggles most with selflessness, giving, and considering others. He drew Rebecca (17). Amazing to me Aaron was the one who took to this the most. All the children enjoyed it and came up with many ways to serve their assignee, but Aaron more than any other. He started getting up early and doing many of Rebecca's AM chores. That very first morning he unloaded the dw, wiped down the counters, swept the kitchen, emptied the laundry rm trash, and transfered laundry. He did not slack as the week passed either. Knowing this child I watched in awe. Now the funny thing is when we redrew last night he drew Becca again. LOL I told him that will happen sometimes. Today, he was back up again serving and blessing her.

Other secret service acts in our home this week
notes of encouragement (printed off the computer to disguise writing)
m&m's left in jacket pockets and on beds
animals fed
beds made
trash emptied
laundry done
special coffee made (LOL I had my husband)

I am loving this!

One thing I want to incorporate in the future is on Saturday evening when we disclose the previous week's Secret Service Agents we will do a foot washing and you will wash the feet of your assignee.

So WHY are we doing this? We want to teach our dc to put feet on their faith. We want them to learn to follow Scripture in their daily life. We want them to learn to serve at home in ways that bring no prestige and no accolades. We want to instill a love of family and that service begins at home. We want them to view changing dirty diapers, sweeping floors, washing dishes, and such as ministry and service as unto the Lord. We want them to learn that one must first serve humbly at home before taking on a ministry to the Lord beyond the home.

Why make a *game* of this? We are doing it in this way because we think it good to make learning fun. We think catching their interest helps in catching their heart.

Galations 5:13-14 For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." NKJV

 Titus 1:5-6 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you— if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. NKJV

I Timothy 5:9-10 Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work. NKJV

I Timothy 3:1-13
This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
NKJV

Matthew 29:14-30
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money. After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them. “So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ His lord said to  him, ‘Well  done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ He also who had received two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.’ His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’  “Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ “But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. So take the talent from him and give it to him who has ten talents. ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ NKJV


 
 
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• Sep. 15, 2006 - Letter to my son - Boys & Hormones

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

The bones of this letter came from a talk a friend had with her son a yr or so ago. Thank you - Oreo Souza

 

As a boy grows older and heads into his teens he will go through many changes. These changes are how God turns a boy into a man Many of these changes are physical. His hair will change texture, he will need to use deodorant, he will grow hair under his armpits and in private areas on his body, and his voice will start to change. There will be other physical changes that daddy will talk to you about when it is time. Those are just the changes you can see on the outside. Other changes are taking place too on your feelings.

 

These changes are caused by hormones in your body waking up and changing. Testosterone, is a special hormone that God gave Adam and all men…. And as you grow closer to manhood, the testosterone in your body will increase. Besides affecting your body in certain ways this hormone will make a boy increasingly restless, aggressive, easily irritated, and frustrated... you might want to yell or cry or kick things.

 

However, those "feelings" are actually hormone issues, and God gave them to you for a reason. You can choose to view these rushes or changes of feelings as bad and choose to use them for bad - hurting people, saying things in anger, talking back, letting yourself get angry, and destroying things. There are a number of men in prison who had made that particular choice, and there are even more young men who made their families lives miserable as they adjusted to their body's changes by acting out negatively during their teen years. Bryan did this.

 

Or you can use these "rushes" for good, as God intended. To work HARD...no more little boy work. God gave men these hormones and feelings to help them work hard to provide for their families and to be ready and prepared to defend their families if they need to. These are the hormones that help a man work hard at his job, help soldiers fight when needed, help police, help firemen, etc.

 

You can’t rely on the things you did when you were "just a boy" anymore. You need to take responsibility for how you handle these rushes and go work through them… physical work. Go mow a lawn. Go chop or stack wood. Go clean the goat shelters or yard. Go haul sticks or pick up rock…. Build something. Clean something. Serve somebody by doing hard work they can't.

 

Besides hard physical work…. Immerse yourself in the Lord…. Read His word, spend time in prayer… get down on your knees, learn His Word and hide it in your heart by memorizing all you can. His word is a SWORD to a mighty man.

 

Feel blessed that God is working these changes on your body and emotions so you can become a strong man for the Lord… but becoming a strong man for the Lord is a choice… if you do not learn to control these emotions you will bring sadness to yourself and your family. If you can learn to control them with God’s help, my help, and dad’s help… you WILL BE a mighty man of God.

 

I am praying for you son and dad & I are here to help you. Going through this is a struggle… it is supposed to be a struggle. If it was easy… you would stay weak. God refines you and makes you stronger by giving you enough struggle to grow your spiritual, emotional, and physical muscles. Every time you struggle try to thank the Lord for helping you grow stronger.

 

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• Jun. 3, 2006 - To read more about how others *dance*

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

visit these dear ladies....

 

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/OreoSouza/

 

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/rerlpr/

 

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/ElCloud/

 

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• Jun. 3, 2006 - More on daning with our husbands....

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

More on dancing with our husbands....

 

I noted to my good friend Shurleen yesterday that we had both just blogged on dancing with our husbands and she asked me an interesting question...

 

Paraphrased - What about when we don't WANT to dance with our husbands, when we are feeling out of step or just plain mad at them?

 

That was NOT the day LOL to ask ME that question.... but thankfully "Greater is He who is in me...." because I think God answered since I could not...

 

We are not only to dance with our husbands when we are happy, or like them, or are feeling full of romance... we are called to dance with our husbands ALL the time.

 

We need to realize that if we stumble or stomp on their foot or feel awkward or they STOMP on our feet.... that that is no reason to stop dancing... instead those are the times we ask that third partner to guide us...

 

have you ever watched a dance instructor place their hands on a student as a couple is learning to dance and guide them through a few steps... until the instructor slowly steps back and watches......... maybe still following the moves of the couple... but no longer physically guiding...

 

I like this metaphor... but in reality God NEVER lets go of us and as an infinite being He is able to hold and guide both of us at once. Now we can chose to fight Him and wrestle for control or we can take a deep breath, relax, and let the Creator of not only our dance, but ALL dances lead us.


 

 

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• Jun. 2, 2006 - A Mother's Prayer

Posted in Teach Them Diligently
A Mother's Prayer
 
 
A mother's prayer
It is so sweet
A mother's prayer
So complete
 
A mother's prayer
It's one I yearn for
A mother's prayer
It is one to adore
 
A mother's prayer
There is none so deep
A mother's prayer
Makes one want to weep
 
A mother's prayer
It's a prayer that is so pure
A mother's prayer
Of one whose love you can be sure
 
by Rebecca (16)
 
With my husband's hours we have not been as consistent as we should with *daily* devotions. We knew that needed to change so if he is not home by 8:30 -9:00PM I am leading nightly devotions with the oldest 3 (with the assistance of the youngest two LOL). We are using Teaching Hearts, Training Minds by Starr Meade, based on the Shorter Westminster Catechism. The other night as we ended our studies I prayed aloud, but I prayed as I do when I am alone for each child individually, naming some of their areas of concern. I am not sure my dc have ever before heard me do this. The next morning.... this poem was waiting for me from my oldest daughter.
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• Jun. 2, 2006 - Teaching my daughter about dancing with your husband...

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

Teaching my daughter about dancing with your husband...

 

Becca (16) does alot of *thinking*....

then she hits me with things outa the blue... Gotta love it. This is what children... especially those moving into adulthood do. They are watching and trying to figure things out.

Soooo she said *something* the other night that she wants to know her future husband's beliefs on before she marries him. It is something our family does, but she is thinking maybe it is better not to do. What it is... really does not matter here. She has her reasons... well thought out and backed in Scripture... but I actually stopped her from going into them with me... and explained why...

I kinda have similar thoughts fluttering around the edges on this topic... but I do not go there. It is something that for now my husband views differently.

Just the night before during our  family Bible study Harold had brought up to the dc how much he and I are learning and unlearning as we study the Word... and that our walk today is not our walk 5 years ago.. and Lord willing not our walk 5 years from now AND that he hopes our children will grow in the Lord and that someday they might learn something from Scripture that we do not know...


I told Becca that this is pretty much what daddy was talking about, but *I* am not *going there*.. that this is daddy's area to study and be convicted of... and I commented that there are times a wife says something or brings something to his attention AND times she does not and that over the years you learn when to speak and how and  more importantly when to be silent...

Then I told her about my friend http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/OreoSouza/ who calls this *dancing with your husband* and how each couple dances a bit differently from every other, but that when each pair is in rhythm together how lovely the dances all are... and that if and when she marries she and her dh will need to learn how to dance this dance together..... and their dance will be unique to them.

 

This was brought home to me again yesterday and today. We are having a struggle right now... my husband and I. No we are not fighting, but a hard no win issue has come up. I have been given outside advice that is well meant and from the heart, but it does not fit how my husband and I dance together. I have likely frustrated some dear ladies and I am sorry, but my priority after my Lord is to dance with my husband... OUR dance. This is a hard dance for me today, but thankfully unlike in *standard dancing* when we dance with our husbands there is a third partner involved who helps us keep in rhythm if we let Him lead.

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• May. 24, 2006 - How to be a Cheerful Helper

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

How to be a Cheerful Helper

By Isaac (11)

Very often we are asked to do something we do not want to do. We usually grumble and do the minimum we have to do. But that is not what the Lord wants us to do. He wants us to be cheerful helpers.

To be a cheerful helper we need to do what we are asked to do immediately, completely, and cheerfully. We should not only do what we are asked to do, but also we should look for opportunities to help others with their jobs or to do them ourselves quickly, completely, and cheerfully. Sometimes it may be fun. Sometimes it may not be fun, but it will please God.

Being a cheerful helper will usually make others happy. And it will make God happy. I am going to try my best to be a cheerful helper and I hope you do to.


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• May. 24, 2006 - My Role as a Big Sister

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

My Role as a Big Sister
by Rebecca (16)


To me a big sister plays a considerable role in a family. They do chores, school etc…. like everyone else, but just doing those simple little things is not adequate. As an older sister we have responsibilities that can’t be ignored. What I believe my duties as a big sister are to be a good example to my younger brothers and sister, assist when asked for help, and to be kind, cheerful, and devoted to them.

Small ears and eyes are always watching and listening. It is up to us to make sure that what they are seeing and hearing from us is only good. If we make a mistake it may affect their lives and how they live them. For instance, let’s say our mom/dad gives us an assignment. We do it, we do it well, but we whine about the job or grumble as we go. The little ears and eyes are at work. They see and hear us protest, grumble and whine. They see us do it often. Before we know it they are doing it too. Their behavior is now a result of our actions. Certainly we didn’t mean for them to learn this, however the point is if we had simply replied: “Yes Ma’am/Sir.”, there would have been less of a chance of their learning to be rebellious. We are not responsible for their sins, but we have an opportunity as a big sister to be a help or a hindrance as our parents train up our younger siblings.

“Sissy how do I do this page.” “Sissy can you button me?” “Sissy can I have a drink.” Boy, those can be some very annoying things to hear at times. Often we grumble, we tell them we’re busy, we pretend not to hear, or some other excuse. Is that the proper and loving way to respond? No! Rather we should love and cherish those moments for as we help them we are bonding together. Cheerfully helping our younger brothers/sisters with their problems, I believe, is one of the many definitions of love. It shows that we care enough about them to stop what we’re doing and see if we can make things right for them.

Most of what I just listed falls under a special verse in the Bible. Leviticus 19:18 You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. NKJV That means we are to treat others, as we would want to be treated. So that means we should be kind and loving to the youngsters. If we do that, they might treat us the same way. And more importantly they will learn to treat those around them with kindness and respect.

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• May. 23, 2006 - Our current Bible study for the week

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

Family Memory Verse for 2006 -

Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren,

by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies

a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is

your reasonable service. And do not be conformed

to this world, but be transformed by the renewing

of your mind, that you may prove what is that good

and acceptable and perfect will of God.

 

Current memory verse -

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

 

Review memory verse -

I Thessalonians 5:15-18 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 

Current Catechism Question -

#5 Q. Is there more than one God?

     A. There is only one, the true and living God.

 

Review Catechism Question -

#4 Q. What is God?

     A. God is a spirit, Whose being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth are   infinite, eternal, and unchangeable.

 

Caleb's Catechism Question and Review -

Q. 1. Who made you?
A. God.

 

Q. 2. What else did God make?
A. God made all things.

 

Family Bible Section -

2 CHRONICLES 29:20-36

 

 

 

 

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• May. 11, 2006 - Working With Dad

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

When I decided to write this entry I pondered what category to put it under. We are told to teach our children diligently this does not just mean adding and subtracting, reading and writing, science and history. It does not even mean just Bible. It means all those things, BUT/AND it means how to live.... how to be a MAN or a WOMAN.

 

Part of being a man is working hard and supporting your family. To that end part of the reason for our move here was to enable our boys to spend more time with dad... learning to be a man.

 

My dh wears many *hats as we joke here. In the spring he works for H&R Block, delivers water, and helps at a water store,  in the summer he cleans pools, delivers water, and helps at a water store, in the fall he continues summers while slowly switching to winter, and in the winter he maintains a few pools, delivers water, and helps at a water store. Throughout all this he wears his "farmer Jones" hat as often as possible.

 

The blessing to our family is because my dh is self-employed (everywhere but taxes) he can have the boys work with him. So as we move into summer each boy has a *pool* day and route. Aaron goes on Wed and Isaac on Fri. Dh teaches and trains them and has them do as much as they *can* , including writing out the invoices. Also this summer the boys will be alternating going on Mon as well and working water.

 

What they are learning is much more than how to take a water sample, scrub or vaccum a pool..... they are learning to work.... hard, quickly, diligently. They are learning to interact with people as a man. They are learning about politeness, respect, and keeping your word. They are learning to serve. They are learning to work. They are learning to be a man in the ways no woman can teach.

 

 

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• May. 11, 2006 - Decisions, decisions...

Posted in Teach Them Diligently

The last 2 days have seen much farm work done and no *school*. I was pondering yesterday all that still needs to be done *right now*. And made a tactical decision. I am ending school this year earlier than planned.

 

We have been feeling our way around on switching over to a year round schedule that fits farm life. I chose to NOT take a baby break or spring break, though I had calculated both in while setting this past years calendar so lack of education is not an issue. All I am really knocking off is one math chapter for each of the boys.

 

I intend to continue history as we can .... likely in the heat of the afternoons. Bible will continue. But other than that.... finish the current math chapters & last few pages in our reading books and STOP.

 

We will start up again in July. I am already working on our plans and schedules. One switch I am making next year is to not *predate* my lesson plans. I will set a set number of weeks and label them by week... week 1, week 2, etc and we will work our way through.

 

I do plan to continue working with Molly as she is ready to really advance at this point and dh has asked me to start Caleb sometime this summer. But for now... except for those little bits.... "School's out!"

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Writings on our lives as a larger, Christian, homeschooling, homesteading, quiverfull, attached parenting family as we draw closer to each other and our Lord.

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