Transformation through Memorization
by Beth Harris
When I became a Christian at fifteen, I knew very little about God’s word. A youth leader taught me how to study and memorize verses. She emphasized to know God means to know His word. That committing truth to memory took discipline and time and work, but would be worth it.
Was she ever right!
Now decades and countless memorized verses and passages later, I can testify to the power living and breathing scripture has on a person’s growth in Christ. In my weakest moments, greatest celebrations, in joy and sorrow, pain and pleasure, God has consistently brought words once scribbled on index cards and Post-It noted to dorm room mirrors back to mind.
So how has hiding God’s word in my heart proven valuable throughout my life?
Scripture brings peace to chaos. Years ago I went through an emergency hospitalization. Fear of the unknown threatened to make my blood pressure soar and my faith sink. When I prayed for peace, Philippians 4:4-7 popped into my thoughts:
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice. Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your heart(s) and mind(s) through Christ Jesus.”
Scripture guides in decision-making. Recently I had a ministry opportunity but had concerns it would interfere with my current work. I had learned 1 Chronicles 28:20 just days before and it proved the perfect word to say no and be faithful in what I am called to do.
“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He won’t leave you or forsake you until all the work for the service of God’s house is finished.”
Scripture grows deep roots of faith. I was twenty-three years old and had serious Jesus-life decisions to make. Psalm 1 was committed to memory, and the Spirit used those six verses to direct me away from foolish friends and on a course of growing strong in Christ. My favorite is verse three:
“He is like a tree plated beside streams of water that bears its fruit in its season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.”
Scripture pierces through dark places. I have dealt with several periods of paralyzing anxiety and deep depression in my life. During these battles memorized scripture has brought light into the darkness. The Spirit would bring the words to mind when I had no mental energy to process them. And in the thin places of fear I knew…I KNEW…God would see me through. Some of the most cherished passages that run on repeat when my mind is troubled are:
“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” ~ Nahum 1:7
“But YOU, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” ~ Psalm 86:15
“And one called to another and said: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” ~ Isaiah 6:3
Scripture clarifies the call. I cannot recall why I memorized Matthew 16:24. But I do remember a mentor telling me it would be easy to learn but hard to live. And that is the very reason I encourage new followers of Christ to make this one of the first verses they commit to know.
“If anyone will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”
Because a life of seeking God’s glory and ways and not my own is the only path to true satisfaction and purpose.
Scripture encourages others. Depending upon the situation different verses come to mind. But here’s a few of the most used and treasured ones to me.
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, be persistent in prayer.” ~ Romans 12:12
“I thank God upon every remembrance of you.” ~ Philippians 1:3
“Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces will never be ashamed.” ~ Psalm 34:5
Scripture points us to right relationship with God. While the Bible is full of passages which speak of a clean heart before God, memorizing Psalm 66:18 and 19 had a special impact on me. Something in these simple, short verses speaks to the emptiness of broken relationship with Him. The Spirit brings these words to mind when I am tempted to choose sin over repentance.
“If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened. But truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer.”
The importance of scripture memorization can be overlooked when we have instant access with a quick online search and a few clicks. But we trust who we know well, not who we simply know a lot about. One verse at a time builds to a lifetime of intimate communication with our Holy God. Seek Him and His word. They never fail.