We will be starting our Memory Verse challenge for 2022 soon! This challenge came about when I learnt that MEDITATING on Scripture is a powerful discipline that all Christians should do. But the picture I got from "meditation" was sitting cross-legged and making weird humming noises. I learnt that meditating on Scripture is NOT about our physical posture, but about how we posture Scripture in front of our hearts and minds over a period of time.
God told Joshua, "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful." (Josh 1:8). He then follows this with the famous statement, "Be strong and courageous!" Our strength and courage in life comes when we know what God says about our life, and how His Kingdom operates.
This is where memorising Scripture comes in. When we try to memorise something, we necessarily have to deeply understand it, and then we have to rehearse it. These two practices are very much what meditating of Scripture is all about.
So how do you make the most of memorising Scripture? Here's some tips:
Read the passage, and then reflect on what it makes you think and feel.
This reflection process helps us to draw out the meaning of the passage. Understanding the meaning is a key reason for memorising Scripture! The meaning also helps us commit the passage to our long-term memory.
2. Repeat small portions of the passage. Increase the portion as it is committed to memory.
This rehearsal helps with memorisation, and also is what makes this a meditative practice! Recall the meaning as well, not just the words.
3. Have the passage printed/written in a prominent place.
Visual reminders are great!
4. Apply the meaning of the passage to your life!
Scripture is not just meant for knowledge, but is meant to influence and impact our lifestyle. Praying about this is a powerful way to bring the Scripture to life too.
So are you ready? Jump onto the app where we have a section dedicated to our 2022 Memory Verse Challenge!