Day 10 | Written on our Hearts: Scripture Memorization
Jeremiah 31:33 (ESV)
For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
OBSERVATION
In this passage, the prophet Jeremiah speaks of a time when God’s Spirit will live within us, so that we might know His Word intimately and personally. I love referring to this passage when talking about scripture memorization.
Have you ever found yourself in need of a verse or a passage in the Bible and not known where to go? I laugh when I think about all the times that I go to Google and search: “verses about _____.” It’s so amazing that we have such easy access to God’s word. But, I wonder if we are doing enough to truly know God’s Word for ourselves. Sure, the Bible is at our fingertips, but I can’t help but think that its rightful place is actually within our hearts.
When we work to know God’s Word, then we are making steps to KNOW GOD. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Sometimes, we forget that the Bible is the God-Breathed truth and our ultimate guide. If we can take the time to remember the words to a song or a speech for a class, surely we can take time to remember the Word of God.
It might be work, but to know the Bible is to have God close to our hearts. I remember the first time a friend came to me for help, and I was able to share a passage of scripture that I remembered. Scripture became an important tool to help my friend that day, and I'm grateful that I had it prepared in my heart. I didn’t have to look it up; I knew it. It felt like a gift from God as the Holy Spirit reminded me of his Word.
APPLICATION
Try to pick one memory verse to begin to learn, something that speaks to you. Write it down, put it on a sticky note on your mirror, or make it your screensaver. There are so many ways and methods to memorize scripture. Just remember, memorizing scripture isn’t just about checking off a box; it’s about getting to know God and keeping him close to your heart!
PRAYER
Dear God, your Word is a gift. I want to use it to grow closer to you. I thank you for your Holy Spirit, who reminds me of your words and your love. Give me the strength and motivation to learn about you and to make better efforts in our relationship. Forgive me for the times that I have become lazy, and I ask that you continue to help me to know you Jo. Amen.