Psalm 119:11 “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” 

This well-known verse is commonly memorized simply through exposure.  It is heard often from the pulpit, in Sunday school and in Bible Studies.  We are encouraged to memorize Scripture for our spiritual strengthening, well-being and health.  I often hear people complaining that they can’t memorize, especially as they get older, and I admit it is not easy.  It is a discipline. 

A few of our staff members are amazing in their Scripture memorization and retention.  I do okay with my memorizing but retaining it? That is another story.  Any good memorization plan requires review.  There are several “techniques” for Scripture memorization and some work for some while others work for others.  Find a way that works for you. 

I have met people over the years that have memorized hundreds, some thousands of verses from Scripture.  How are you doing in this area?  If you are like most, it is a weak area of your Christian walk.  This is not meant to put a guilt trip on you, not at all.  I have been a believer nearly 30 years and it is still a weak area of my walk, but I ‘m working on it. 

Good memorizarion plans and a solid review plan only deal with the first part of verse 11, “I have stored up your word in my heart…”  But the purpose of storing God’s word in our heart is not so we can impress people rehearsing Scripture or to win drills or to have them on the tip of our tongues. NO, the purpose is that we would not sin against God.  Memorizing the Word holds little value if it doesn’t change us, if it doesn’t lay down the guidelines of obedience for us.  Having a head full of Scripture is not the same as having a heart full of Scriputure which we live by and obey. 

I can memorize Scripture, but if it doesn’t change me then I might have as well memorized the dictionary.  To release the power of God’s Word in my life, I must not only memorize it, I must also chose to live by it.   “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” James 1:22.

May you experience God’s blessings today in a fresh and exciting way.  Open your eyes and behold your God all around you. 

Blessings, Diane

Diane Hunt is part of the Development and Addiction Recovery teams at America’s Keswick.  In addition to being a Biblical Counselor, she is a Women’s speaker for retreats, conferences and events.  She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. She has been married to her husband John over 28 years.  She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all.  She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.