So why then would you want to read about what some say is almost impossible as we age--memorizing scripture! Please hear me out. Recently, I've encouraged you to get in touch with your inner spiritual child, by doing elementary things you once enjoyed in your early Christian life. Things like reading and meditating on God's Word. It follows then that Scripture memorization would be a logical next step!
I have to admit, I often stand in awe of my pastor and others who are able to spout out scripture (verse and text) with such ease and in great volume with so little effort. But I know from my own experience that this is not evidence of mental acuity, but of consistency and hard work. It's a discipline! Something that you just have to keep working at. So I plod on!
Here are My Top Three Reasons for doing so:
1. Scripture memorization keeps me connected to God. Living in God's presence is my top priority. It should be the goal of every Christian. Because God is a Spirit, the only way I can do that is to feed (meditate) on His Word, hidden in my heart (Ps. 119:11). This Word keeps me spiritually focused, intact, and in touch with Him no matter where I am or who I'm with!
2. Scripture memorization provides divine counsel and guidance for every situation ( Ps. 119:24). I can't tell you how many times I've prayed about a decision I needed to make regarding my ministry, finances, relationships, and matters so insignificant to others that it seemed not worth the thought. I'd ponder over these things and suddenly a scripture would pop in my mind and give me clarity on the issue?
Or perhaps someone decides to call me out of the blue and ask for a word of counsel, comfort or encouragement. What do I do then? No time to dig for sermon notes or the bible. The Holy Spirit comes to my aide and enlightens me with just the right words to say! But if I hadn't made a mental deposit beforehand I surely couldn't have made a withdrawal when it was needed!
3. Scripture memorization gives me daily power for living in this fallen world. You know yourself that the world is not getting better. It is so easy to get discouraged, to throw up your hands and give up! But for as many negative and pessimistic circumstances that come my way and tries to sway me from the truth of my faith, there's that many more scriptures I can draw strength from. All I have to do is hide them in my heart! Praise God there's a Holy App (scripture) that fits every need!
Well, hopefully one of these reasons will motivate you to try Scripture Memorization for the first time or help you to get Back to the Basics and start afresh. Next week, I'll provide some tips and resources to help you get started. In the meantime try memorizing this simple one to whet your appetite!
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path (Psalms 119:105)
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
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