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

No one reminds me to check my phone. No one tells me how to get home from work. Simple every day things I easily remember without giving it much thought. My fave recipe I can make with my eyes closed, but ask for my cell number and I have to think really hard. You see, I don’t call myself so I don’t need my number. Ask me for a friend’s number and I’d have to resort to my phone contacts – never dial the number myself. You see it’s quite easy to rely on something rather than train my mind for recall.

Memory is a beautiful gift. One we often take for granted. Good memories rescue us when times get tough and souls wage weary. Wise memories protect us from repeat mistakes. Sweet memories linger long when those we love pass away. Difficult memories resurface when we least expect it. Challenging memories attempt to keep us locked in the past.

Memory – an amazing treasure we selectively use and sometimes totally neglect. Chuck Swindoll puts it this way, “We memorize whatever we believe is worth the effort.”

Wonder how much time we spend saturating our minds with God’s Word? Have to admit, my usual go to is I can’t memorize scripture it’s just too hard. Don’t think that excuse serves me well. Especially when God’s word reminds us of the power and protection found in hiding His words in our hearts. Wonder why we carelessly skipping memorization despite God’s amazing promises? Depths of joy and hope are birthed in fixing our eyes firmly on His words. Life sustaining and wisdom granting truths rise to the surface just when we need them if His words fill our minds. Storing His words in our hearts ensures a deep foundation for life’s stormy days. Guaranteed encouragement and mighty weapons waging war against our enemy – that’s exactly what repeating His words empowers us to do.

So, sweet friends here’s our Summer challenge – choose a verse and memorize it. Even if it takes us weeks to accomplish. God isn’t impressed by our speed; He’s touched by our diligence and consistency to hide His word in our hearts. Let’s not let intimidation win out…..God would never ask us to do something we can’t do; I think we’ll find it’s easier than we thought.

“Father, Your words are life to our souls and nourishment for our minds. Lead each of us to the passage of scripture You know we need to unpack, memorize and obey. Trusting You to enable us to honor You with our best effort.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life