One of my elderly aunts has been bedridden for several years. When she was younger, she made a habit of memorizing scripture verses. Until recently, she could speak. She used to quote scripture to herself and to any visitors as she lay in bed. She can no longer eat, move, or communicate with others, but we are sure she still has the comfort of those scripture verses in her heart.
Her example has become an inspiration to me. These days I have so many ways to look up scripture verses--smartphones, computers, multiple translations of the Bible in print. The plethora of resources makes memorization of scripture seem irrelevant. Why go through the trouble of rote learning when the information is easily accessible?
Knowing God’s word by heart is more than mere memorization. This practice takes time, commitment, and discipline. As we imprint scripture deep within our soul, we gain new levels of understanding, strength, and comfort. We are guided away from temptation and back to wholeness and goodness. It allows the Spirit of God to speak to us even in the most desperate times when everything else shuts down.
“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NLT)
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