Memorizing Scripture
We live in a society where Scripture (the Bible) is easily accessible.
There are several websites that have the entire Bible available to read and search.
Stores everywhere sell copies.
There are tons of Bible Study books, commentaries, and devotionals available.
We even have apps for our phone.
If it is so accessible, then why is it so important to memorize Scripture?
There are several reasons.
The Bible tells us to.
Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
To hide something in our heart means to learn it in the deepest part of us so that it becomes part of who we are.
More than facts, it is deep knowledge on the most intimate level.
When we have Scripture in us, it shapes how and what we think and do.
If it is in us, the Holy Spirit can remind us of it when we need it, like when we are witnessing to someone or when we are dealing with a situation.
This helps us know what we should and shouldn’t do as we walk through our day so that we can live a life honoring to God.
We need Scripture so we can be corrected.
When we are doing wrong or have stepped off His path, the Holy Spirit will prompt us.
Often this is done by reminding us of Scripture verses we have already read and studied.
The more verses we have in us, the better able we are to recognize those promptings when we have done wrong.
Another reason we should memorize Scripture is because when we are struggling it is there to encourage us.
If we know His Word, we can recall the promises God has given us and be comforted by knowing He is there with us and for us.
Being able to remind ourselves this by thinking about Scriptures that tell us these truths can be very strengthening when times are tough.
Scripture is a weapon that helps protect us.
Ephesians 6:17 tells us the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit.
When we are fighting spiritual battles, we can use the Word of God as a weapon to affect the outcome.
We do this by praying relevant Scriptures and asking the Lord to reach out into the situation and change it.
We can also speak Scriptures out loud and claim the promises they provide.
This strengthens us and reminds us that as God’s children, it is God’s battle, but our victory.
Memorizing Scripture is not just busy work.
It’s not filling our head with information.
It is making it a part of us and our innermost being so when we are living our lives from day to day it will be there to guide us, instruct us, and to correct us.
What about you? Do you regularly read and memorize Scripture?
How can you improve on this today?
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Psalm 119:11 (NIV)
Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, .Ephesians 6:17 (NIV)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting. and training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart 4Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3 (NIV)
I will delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your Word. Psalm 119:16 (NIV)