Scripture memorization.
It’s the thought on my mind as of late.
At times I have been diligent to memorize. Other times, just plain lazy about it. But let’s face it ”“ when the rubber hits the road, it is only by His Word that we stay above the fray.
I wondered what others have found to be true of Scripture memorization:
- “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture… No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified.” (Chuck Swindoll)
- “The word, stored in the heart, provides a mental depository for the Holy Spirit to use to mediate His grace to us, whatever our need for grace might be.” (Jerry Bridges)
- “Let us labor to memorize the Word of God-for worship and for warfare. If we do not carry it in our heads, we cannot savor it in our hearts or wield it in the Spirit.” (John Piper)
- “Gather the riches of God’s promises. Nobody can take away from you those texts from the Bible which you have learned by heart. ” (Corrie Ten Boom)
- “The remedy for discouragement is the Word of God. When you feed your heart and mind with its truth, you regain your perspective and find renewed strength.” (Warren Wiersbe)
If we are going to survive the storm, come out from the undertow, or rise above the disappointments in life …
it will be because we have made our abode in His Word,
and He has made His abode in us.
“I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people. My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you.”
(Psalm 17:4, NLT)
I love that quote by Corrie Ten Boom. I am the same as you. Sometimes I am diligent in memorizing Scripture and sometimes I am lax. Thank you for this wonderful encouragement to get busy and open our Bibles!
I know I want to be more consistent in memorization. So good to know I am not alone.
I also love the quote from Corrie ten Boom. Gathering the riches of God’s promises is an invitation that is hard to refuse. I do not memorize scripture but I am finding that the more I read it the more it stays with me.
Mary, yes (!) you are right. The more I am reading Scripture, combined with getting older, the more Scripture is staying with me. So encouraging!