Memorizing Scripture

WHY MEMORIZE SCRIPTURE?

In an age when most of us don’t memorize much of anything, why should we memorize the Bible?

There are numerous reasons for Scripture memorization.

1. You always have it.
   Memorized Scripture allows you to dwell continuously on a passage throughout the day and recall it when needed. Memorized Scripture is particularly helpful when you’re being tempted.

   Psalm 119:11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

   When you need encouragement, comfort, or strength to stand firm in your faith, God’s Word will be readily at hand.
   

2. Your mind is renewed.
   Memorizing Scripture helps you grow in your knowledge of, love for, and obedience to God. The truths of the Bible will soak into your life, changing your understanding of what is real and good. It will help you to be stronger emotionally, bring a deeper peace into your life, and will be used by God to renew your mind.

   Romans 12:2 "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."
   

3. You can bless others.
   Memorizing Scripture also helps you serve other people. You can assist others by sharing appropriate passages when they need them.

   Colossians 3:16 “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

   When giving advice to others who are hurting or struggling, God’s Word, readily available to you if you have it memorized, is powerful to bring healing and encouragement.

Disclaimer:
It’s important to keep in mind that memorizing God’s Word is not the final objective of memorizing the Bible. We’re called to be “doers” of the Word (James 2:14-19; Matthew 7:24-27). In Deuteronomy 30:14 we read, “The word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it.”

SUGGESTIONS FOR MEMORIZING SCRIPTURE:

Begin with prayer. Continually pray for God’s help in memorizing and in letting his Word change you.

Start Small. Start with a favorite verse or one that addresses a topic that has meaning for you. It is more useful to start small, succeed, and see the impact of the Scripture in your life than to set unrealistic memorization goals, fail, and never try again. The goal isn’t the quantity of Scriptures memorized; the goal is to reflect on a passage and let God’s Word impact your life.

Be Intentional.

1. Pick a specific time of the day when you memorize

2. Write or print your verses on a small card you can carry with you

3. Memorize your passage word for word

4. Review your memory passages every day

5. Find someone else to memorize with you