The Bible tells us to hide its Words in our heart! We often use the excuse of not having a good memory, yet we know countless song lyrics and sports stats. The truth is that Bible memorization is hard work, but it can be done!
Donald Whitney: “Hearing and reading the Word plants the seeds of Scripture into the soil of our heart, the other disciplines are the water and sun God uses to bring the growth.”
Reasons scripture memorization is important
- Memorization brings verses to our minds when we need them most
- Memorization matures your faith
- Memorization prepares us for sharing the Gospel
- Memorization is a means by which God guides us
- Memorization is the fuel of meditation
Tips for Bible memorization
- Have a plan
- Write out the verses by hand
- Draw picture reminders
- Memorize correctly (skip the temptation to paraphrase or memorize mistakes)
- Have accountability (find someone who will do it with you and hold you accountable)
- Review every day
Meditating on the Bible
Christian meditation is not emptying your mind, but filling it with the Word of God. Meditation is deep thinking or reflection on the truth of Scripture. It is like marinating, you let the Bible permeate your soul.
Tips for meditation
- Emphasize different words in the verse: I am the bread of life, I AM the bread of life, I am THE bread of life, I am the BREAD of life, I am the bread of LIFE
- Rewrite the verse in your own words
- Think of an illustration from the text
- Look for the application
- What is the Gospel connection?
- How does the text point to Jesus?
- Turn the text into a prayer
- Memorize the text
- Dwell on the text throughout the day