Becoming Like Jesus: Scripture MemorizationSample

Know Your Why

This week, we have started forming the habit of Scripture memorization, of getting the truth of God’s Word deep down inside of us so that it becomes the thing that shapes our identity.

If you are struggling to develop consistency around this practice, take today to remind yourself why it matters. When you have a clear and compelling “why,” consistency around the “how” becomes less of a chore and more of an exciting opportunity to accomplish your goal.

Pray…

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word. Jesus, thank you for demonstrating the power of letting God’s words dictate everything we do and say. Holy Spirit, thank you for working in me and helping me learn the truth of who you say that I am. I trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Read…

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

Consider…

All the Scripture that we have read this week, the verses we have been committing to memory, are literally the inspired words of God. The same God who crafted the cosmos with his words, wants to use his words to shape you and me.

His words teach us what is real and true. They help us see ourselves and others clearly. His Word guides us on our journey of becoming more like Jesus. It’s the truth of His Word that prepares us for the purpose God has for us.

That’s a compelling “why”! Don’t we all want to know what’s really real? Don’t we love gaining self-awareness and perspective? Don’t we all, at least secretly, want help making decisions and figuring out how to navigate this journey called life?

God, through His Word, wants to step into all those spaces and help you become who you were truly meant to be.

Take some time to journal your why today. Simply complete the sentence: I am committed to practicing Scripture memorization because __________________________.

Use as many or as few words as you want—just make it personal. This is your “why.”

Practice…

8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:8-9 NLT

Review this verse one more time. Quiz yourself and see where you are when it comes to being able to say it all from memory. Try giving a friend permission to challenge you, on the spot, to say this week’s verse at any given time. The accountability from your friend and the surprise challenge may help you internalize this truth so you are always ready!

Listen…

Set a timer for 5 minutes.

Lean into your listening by reading through 2 Timothy 3:16-17 again. What are you noticing?

Ask God to speak to you about that passage and why He would want you to internalize the truth of His words.

When you get distracted, come back to Jesus by thanking Him for demonstrating the value of letting God’s truth determine everything we say and do. Thank Him for His example.