I always good intentions with Scripture memory. Over the years I have memorized (and forgotten) dozens of Bible verses.
I love God’s Word–a healthy dose of it is what gets me through each day.
But memorizing? I’ve not been very consistent in committing Scripture to heart. Somehow it’s been like every other diet I’ve been on. I’m faithful for awhile and then let it drop.
Lately though, I’ve realized that having Scripture in my head and heart make a big difference in my outlook on life. Without regular review of God’s words to me, my mood is more dependent on my circumstances, I’m more susceptible to negative attacks from the enemy, and my prayer life suffers.
So at the beginning of this new year, I’m picking up a habit I never should have dropped. Like the psalmist, I want to store God’s word in my heart.
I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
Verses to Get you Out of An Emotional Basement
But maybe you don’t know where to begin with Scripture memory. What verses should you choose? What version of the Bible should you use? My suggestion is to use the version that you most often read out of and store up verses that speak to your heart.
I especially love memorizing Scripture verses that speak of God’s love for me. When the world beats me down, when I doubt my worth, these are the verses that consistently pull me out of any emotional basement I get into:
All beautiful you are, my darling; there is no flaw in you. (Song of Songs 4:7 NIV 1984)
The Lord delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love. (Psalm 147:11 NIV 1984)
As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. (Isaiah 62:5 ESV)
The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing. (Zephaniah 3:17 ESV)
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (1 John 3:1 NIV 1984)
The Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him. (Psalm 32:10b)
Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life. (Isaiah 43:4)
My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. (Psalm 62:7)
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29)
Easy Steps to Memorizing Scripture
I encourage you to begin storing up some favorite verses. Don’t be intimidated. Here are some tips to begin memorizing.
Start with one verse.
Write it on a sticky note.
Post it where you will see it often.
Read it out loud every day and then try to say it without looking at the note.
By the end of the week you will have one verse memorized.
I have heard it said that when we memorize Scripture we are giving the Holy Spirit the opportunity to speak to us in His language. When we store God’s Word in our minds, He can easily bring them to mind when we need them. That way, when you’re discouraged, disappointed, or hurt, the Spirit will bring out of storage the exact encouragement you need.
Next step: Pick one of the verses above. Or one of your own. Follow the easy steps to memorizing God’s Word. Scripture memory will help you hear the Spirit’s encouraging voice!