Afterwords -- Scripture memory
"Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips.
That your trust may be in the LORD, I have made them known to you today, even to you.
Have I not written for you thirty sayings of counsel and knowledge, to make you know what is right and true, that you may give a true answer to those who sent you?
(Proverbs 22:17-21)
May 8, 2023
Dear friends,
The words above remind us that when we study Scripture we are to "apply our hearts" to the knowledge of God (v 17). That means we are to direct and fix our attention to God's word. That means intentional, sustained, reflective thought. We should not be superficial or casual in our approach to his word. If we "keep" his precepts and his promises in our heart, and "ready on your lips", we will find them to be pleasant (v 18). The goal is to cultivate faith, "that your trust may be in the Lord," and that we might know what is "right and true" in this life (v 19, 21).
The "thirty sayings" (v 20) introduces a new section in the book of Proverbs. To "give a true answer" to those who sent you (v 21), may refer to the integrity and faithfulness needed from Solomon's sons as they discharge their leadership duties in Israel. In other words, they were to be accountable to the king, and ultimately, to God. Likewise, we are accountable to speak truth to those over us, and to our families, fellow believers, and neighbors. This may even relate to 1 Peter 3:15... "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." (NIV)
One of the ways to apply our hearts to biblical knowledge is by memorizing Scripture. We are to hear, read, study, and meditate on God's word. Memorization of passages helps us to meditate, that is, to go over and over his words, again and again, pondering, and internalizing truth. Jerry Bridges wrote, "Memorization is the first step to meditation."
Consider what these passages say...
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it." (Josh 1:8)
"...his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night." (Psalm 1:2)
"I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." (Psalm 119:11)
"If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32)
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Rom 12:2)
One thing I learned early in my Christian life is how crucial and vital it is to memorize Scripture. The word becomes part of my thought life. It's mine. I can think about it and speak of it at any time and place. I can use it readily in sharing with others. The sustained effort of memorizing helps produce spiritual transformation because I am renewing my mind in the process.
When I was in seminary a student complained to his professor (who had been encouraging the students to memorize Scripture), and said, "I can't memorize Scripture. My mind is like a sieve. It just goes through, and it's gone." The professor answered, "Just keep trying to memorize Scripture -- at least you will have a clean sieve."
Many years ago, I began with the Topical Memory System by the Navigators, which was a great way to begin. Through the years I've tried various systems, but basically memorize key passages, especially those related to sound doctrine, those helpful in ministry, and those relevant to my own life. I use 3x5 cards and group them by books of the Bible. Reviewing the verses you learn is very important. One great way to review Scripture is by sharing a passage with others -- that's a blessing for them as well as for you.
FINAL QUOTE. "Scripture is not only pure but purifying." (William S. Plumer)
That's it for this week!
Sandy
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The ESV Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version), copyright 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.