Most of us know our phone number, address, or can sing a number of songs without any struggle. That good news means we can curate a Scripture library in our hearts using Scripture memory. Along with the other biblical practices I write about on this site, Scripture memory also calms angst, bring peace to our mind, and transforms our hearts.

I don’t want you to carry guilt about the practice. A lot of people struggle with the idea. Focus on the many things you’ve memorized in life. Then, relax, and glean anything you can from my article, and maybe the Spirit will spark an idea you will love.

Scripture memory is an excellent discipline and is what I believe the Psalmist is referencing in Psalm 119:11:

“I have taken your words to heart so I would not sin against you.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭11‬ ‭ICB‬‬
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God’s Word transforms us. David believed it could help him sin less, which applies to us all today. And that alone makes me want to sign up! If we memorize a verse or passage, and over time can’t repeat it, we should not feel discouraged. Instead, rejoice because the Bible tells us it is in us. It is hidden in the heart. It is supernatural.

Like going to get a book off a library shelf, scripture memory has to be found, chosen, and read with intention. But sometimes (because it is in the mind) it does pop up, and today was one of those times for me. I sighed about a circumstance, “Lord, this is getting depressing!”, and the next thought in my head was, “I lift my eyes up to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2 NIV). Then I spoke it and thanked the Lord. The Spirit can’t call up what your mind hasn’t store up.

I’ve heard people say over the years that Scripture memorized will be there when you need it. I believe that’s true, but it doesn’t mean instant recall. Scripture has purpose; it is eternal. It brings hope, wisdom, and stability in our spirit, whether a verse pops into our mind or not.

It’s a triple win because it changes one’s mental, heart, and emotional health. That’s a personal testimony! And as a bonus, I believe a person who interacts with Scripture regularly has a fountain of youth that has no connection to vanishing wrinkles. A winsomeness, a sparkle in the eyes, and a general peaceful countenance emerge over time. That too is supernatural.

Scripture is powerful, and Hebrews 4:12 backs this up, as Paul describes Scripture’s supernatural power.

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Scripture is valuable because it is God-breathed! 2 Timothy 3:16

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right.

God loves us, and we get to know the One who loves us through His Word. Whether the familiarity of the Creation story, or Psalm 23, or more challenging parts like the wars and battles of the Old Testament, and Mosaic Law, all are valuable to our soul.

APPLICATION:

For memorization, I’ve heard my whole life to start small. I don’t know why. Start big. Have fun.

Here’s a link to a solid resource and one of their tips is “start small”, but just start, and again, have fun, and let’s build our own Scripture library in our heart!❤️ https://www.navigators.org/resource/how-to-memorize-scripture/

Right now, I am writing verses on truth cards(type “truth cards” in the search box on this site), and I review them most every day. After reading this article, did you get an idea about scripture memory? Will you continue or start memorizing scripture? Let me know in the comments.

©Valerie Rumfelt