If I had to pick one spiritual discipline that many struggle with, I think it would be memorizing scripture. This difficulty is only compounded now that many carry the entire Bible on their phones complete with commentary in their pockets and purses at all times. If I need to get to verse, I have them all right here, why bother memorizing a few?
It is not simply for reference that we memorize, but to pursue holiness. The Psalmist had access to the scriptures too, but pursued memorization because he desired not to sin. He declared,
With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! Psalm 119:10-11
Pocket access to the scriptures is certainly a blessing the Psalmist would have coveted, but still he would have memorized them. In following Jesus, we are seeking to be transformed through the renewal of our minds (Romans 12:2). Memorizing the scriptures is doing just that – renewing our minds. We are taking the truth and embedding it on our hearts. We cut off sin before it even begins.
I realize that it is a daunting endeavor to memorize the scriptures (It is a big book with lots of verses!), but you have to start somewhere. Below is a list of verses that you could begin memorizing. Print out the verses. Copy them. Record them. Paste them to your dashboard. There is no one right way to memorize. Find out what works for you and go after it.
And as you memorize, do not be surprised when the Holy Spirit brings those very verses to mind when faced with temptation or struggle and lifts up your soul. I guarantee you it will happen!
The Assurance of Forgiveness
- 1 John 1:9-10
- Matthew 11:28-30
The Assurance of Salvation
- Romans 10:9-10
- 1 John 5:11-13
The Abundant Life
- John 10:10
- Mark 8:34-36
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
- Ephesians 1:13-14
- Romans 8:12-14
The Process of Sanctification
- Romans 12:1-2
- Psalm 119:18
The Church
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
- Hebrews 10:24-25
The Spiritual Battle
- Ephesians 6:12
- 1 Peter 5:8
The Victory over Sin
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
- 1 John 5:4-5
The Assurance in Prayer
- Jeremiah 33:3
- Psalm 66:18-19
