Recently, one of my students shared her frustration and discouragement about not being able to recall Bible verses that she recently committed to memory. I assured her that this happens to the best of us. For starters, remember that while some people are more naturally gifted at memorizing, it is a skill that can be developed. What is the prize? Having God’s Word stored away in your heart so that it is easily accessible in times of need. For example, Psalms 119:11 reads: “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (ESV). This one verse suggests that memorizing Scripture, among other things, is intrinsically connected to the sanctification of the whole person (body and soul) which no doubt involves resisting sin for God’s pleasure and our good. It can and ought to play a vital, joyful, and formative role in the spiritual life of each individual, family, and church.
