2015 Bible Memorization Challenge

   Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.  

                                                                         Psalms 119:11

Beginning with the new year, I thought it might be helpful for myself (and hopefully to others as well!) to start off the year with a goal to memorize a certain amount of Bible verses during January, and possibly into February as well. I will plan on making a weekly post with suggested verses to memorize (I realize at times I might list verses that you already have memorized, which in that case, I will just leave it up to you to choose your own). It's completely up to you if you'd like to work at your own pace--maybe memorizing more or less than what I suggest. Remember that it is far better to memorize less and retain it, than to memorize too fast and forget most of it!

Most of all, it's my desire that this would be done to glorify God. As the Psalmist said:"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."  Psalm 119:11 God uses His Word to sanctify and comfort His people. 

"Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth."  John 17:17   

"That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." Ephesians 5:26-27

"For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." Romans 15:4

It's important to have God's Word hidden in our hearts! 

"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12 

 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." James 1:22 

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:" 1 Peter 3:15

  "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time." Colossians 4:5   

If we are a child of God, our testimony is weakened, and we are often cast down and discouraged when we don't meditate on God's Word throughout the day. If we don't know God's promises by heart, how will we be encouraged by them? If you are presented with an opportunity to share the Gospel with someone, can you quote the Bible fluently?

  "And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

  And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Revelation 12:10-11

Often when I have been discouraged, the first part of the above verse (verse 11) has been such an encouragement to me, and I've been so thankful that I've had it memorized. Praise God for the precious blood of the Lamb of God!

Helpful Tip:

One of my favorite ways to help memorize Bible verses, is to write out the verse(s) I am trying to memorize on a small chalkboard, and place the chalkboard in a place where I will see it every day.

If you would like to join me this coming month, or have any suggestions for memorizing, I would love to hear from you!