embedded-in-god's-word

Good morning…

“A couple of years ago, I was in a small group for a year,” one subscriber gave me permission to share her personal story. “At the end of our time, the leader gave everyone a Mason jar filled with business card sized pieces of paper folded in half. On each card was a different Bible verse with the person’s name embedded in it. For example, in my jar one card had the verse Isaiah 41:10 and it said, So do not fear, for I am with you, Rosemary; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

There were 52 different personal messages from God in each jar so I could open a new personal verse every Monday morning for an entire year! It was so very powerful to read scripture with my name included in it. It made God’s Word more personal and gave me the feeling that God was talking directly to me. I really loved this and looked forward to reading a new verse every week.

My son is in 5th grade this year and going to middle school next year so for graduation this year I am going to give him his own Mason jar filled with scripture that will hopefully guide him through his first year of middle school. I did a lot of scripture about anxiety and strength, hope and courage, for example: Have I not commanded you, William? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9. Hopefully this will help give him a Siri like experience, that God is talking to him personally, giving him directions.”

But now, this is what the Lord says—
he who created you, Martha,
he who formed you, Laura,
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you, Lou,
I have summoned you by name, Lara, you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you, Cathy,
and when you pass through the rivers, Elizabeth,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned, David,
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One… Sharon, your Savior…
Since you are precious and honored in my sight, Beth,
and because I love you, Greg…
Do not be afraid, for I am with you (Isaiah 43:1-5, NIV).