The Benefits of Memorizing God’s Word
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” Colossians 3:16
Memorizing God’s Word seems to be a forgotten practice outside of early childhood Sunday school. Once we’re old enough to read the Word for ourselves, is it really all that important to memorize it?
Yes.
Memorizing God’s Word is a discipline that Jesus Himself practiced. He quoted from the Old Testament nearly 180 times in the New Testament. And that’s just what was recorded. We have been called to be conformed to the image of Jesus (Romans 8:29) so, naturally, memorizing God’s Word needs to be a part of our regular spiritual practice.
God also commands us to memorize Scripture through passages like these:
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do all that is written in it.” Joshua 1:8
“You shall therefore lay up these words of mime in your heart and in your soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.” Deuteronomy 11:18
“But he answered, ‘It is written, ‘“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’” Matthew 4:4
Clearly, Scripture memorization is important, but why?
- Memorizing Scripture protects us from sin.
Temptation is everywhere. We are to flee temptation, but when it’s at every turn, how do we withstand it? By the Word of God. Hiding God’s Word in our hearts gives us the wisdom and strength to find the way out and flee. (Psalm 119:11; 1 Corinthians 10:13)
- Memorizing Scripture fills our minds with things above.
Sometimes in the midst of the mess that is life, it’s hard to think on whatever is true or honorable or right or pure. Lovely, admirable, and excellent things can often be hard to find. When Scripture fills our minds, we have all of these things readily accessible. We have all that we need for life and godliness. (Philippians 4:8; 2 Peter 1:3-4)
- Memorizing Scripture strengthens our witness.
While sharing our testimonies with unbelievers is very powerful, the Word of God is alive and active and sharper than any two-edged sword. It’s the Word of God that will transform lives and allow the Spirit to move souls. When we have Scripture memorized, we will be ready to share the hope of Christ at a moment’s notice just as God calls us to be. (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Peter 3:15)
- Memorizing Scripture allows us to encourage fellow believers.
Even with a Bible in hand, sometimes we simply don’t know where to turn to encourage our brothers and sisters. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” God has this incredible way of bringing Scripture to mind at the very moment we need it most. He’s been doing that very thing as I write this! Commit to memorizing Scripture so you can “…encourage one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
- Memorizing Scripture draws us closer to God.
The Word of God is just that – God’s words. There is no better way to know Him more than to know His Word. Memorizing Scripture allows us to find great delight in His Word, and to carry it with us always, keeping our hearts in tune with His. How sweet are His words! (Psalm 119:103)
Chuck Swindoll sums it all up perfectly in his book Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life:
“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.”
“I will delight in Your statutes; I will not forget your word.” Psalm 119:16
Here are some fabulous Bible Memory Techniques to help you get started.
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