Memorizing Scripture

 When I saw the consultant about the problems I am having with my hearing and head pains, one of the questions he asked me was “how is your memory – short term and long term.” I told him that I could not remember anything about the day of my accident except waking up in hospital and that I use to be able to preach without referring to my notes but now have to read them a lot more.

This got me thinking about the discipline of memorizing scripture. I know of no other single practice in the Christian life that's more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture. Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your counseling will be in demand. 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.

 God's Word is filled with exhortations to implant His truth in our hearts. David says that a young man can keep his life pure by treasuring God's Word in his heart (Psalm 37:31; 119:9-11). Solomon refers to this in Proverbs 4:4: "Let your heart hold fast my words; Keep my commandments and live." The words hold fast come from a single Hebrew term, meaning "to grasp, seize, lay hold of." Scripture memory gives you a firm grasp of the Word---and allows the Word to get a firm grasp of you! Solomon also mentions writing the Word "on the tablet of your heart" (Proverbs 7:3) and having Scriptures kept within you so "they may be ready on your lips" (Proverbs 22:18).

 Here are seven things I have found helpful with regard to this practice…

1. Choose a time when your mind is free from outside distractions . . . perhaps soon after getting up in the morning.

2. Learn the reference by repeating it every time you say the verse(s). Numbers are more difficult to remember than words.

3. Read each verse through several times---both in a whisper and aloud. Hearing yourself say the words helps cement them into your mind.

4. Break the passage into its natural phrases. Learn the reference and then the first phrase. Then repeat the reference and first phrase as you go to the second phrase. Continue adding phrases one by one.

5. Learn a little bit perfectly rather than a great deal poorly. Do not go on to the next verse until you can say the previous one(s) perfectly, without a glance at your Bible.