God's instructions to Joshua preparatory to entering the promised land to fight the good fight of faith in order to possess his promised possessions remains a proven "formula for spiritual success" for saints today who like Joshua have been set apart that we might become experiential possessors of our positional possession of every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus

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; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. (Joshua 1:8-ntoe)

The law of his God is in his heart.
His steps do not slip Psalm 37:31

Spurgeon commenting on the phrase (KJV) The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide writes that...

The best thing in the best place, producing the best results. Well might the man's talk be so admirable when his heart was so well stored. To love holiness, to have the motives and desires sanctified, to be in one's inmost nature obedient to the Lord -- this is the surest method of making the whole run of our life efficient for its great ends, and even for securing the details of it, our steps from any serious mistake. To keep the even tenor of one's way, in such times as these, is given only to those whose hearts are sound towards God, who can, as in the text, call God their God. Policy slips and trips, it twists and tacks, and after all is worsted in the long run, but sincerity plods on its plain pathway and reaches the goal.

The best thing.
In the best place.
With the best of results.

John Trapp adds...

He hath a Bible in his head, and another in his heart; he hath a good treasure within, and there hence bringeth good things.

Aldous Huxley (who was interested in the supernatural but was not a believer) made a statement that relates to Scripture memorization when he declared that...

Each man's memory is his private literature. (Interesting thought!)

 Do you have difficulty memorizing Scripture? You are not alone. The most common reasons I hear for not memorizing Scripture are "Bible verses are for the children" or "I don't have a good memory" or "I'm too old to memorize" and probably the most honest "It's too much work and to tell you the truth I'm just too lazy!" But considering the advantages of memorization and meditation gleaned from just the two verses quoted above should be reason enough to motivate every believer to seriously consider (or re-consider) Scripture memorization as an integral part of disciplining  (gymnazo [word study]  - what does this sound like? what does it say about "spiritual discipline? Will it be a "no brainer"? Obviously not.) ourselves

for the purpose of godliness" which "is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. (1Ti 4:7, 8-notes).

As an aside note that Paul is not giving Timothy [or us] a suggestion but is commanding [Present imperative] that spiritual discipline be one's lifestyle, one's daily delight!

If we truly believed what Paul wrote his young protégée Timothy, I think we would take the approach of the suffering saint Job who declared...

I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured (tsaphan = same Hebrew word found in Psalm 119:11 "I have treasured Thy Word...") the words of His mouth more than my necessary food. (Job 23:12-note)

Two verses earlier Job had made the incredible (considering what transpired in his life in Job1 and Job 2!) declaration...

But He knows the way I take. When He has tried (bachan = Investigation to determine essential qualities of object - for an informative study see the 9 uses in Psalms - note 3 synonyms in Ps 26:2, the first "examine" = bashan) me, I shall come forth as gold. (Job 23:10-note)

Here's the question -- Do you see any relationship between Job 23:10-note and Job 23:12-note? Specifically, do these verses suggest some insight into how Job was able to persevere ("You have heard of the "endurance of Job" James 5:11) in the face of incredible sufferings and afflictions? I think you see the point -- the value of Scripture memorization cannot be overemphasized!

I hear so many serious believers say "I ought to begin memorizing Scripture" only to find out weeks or months later they never followed through. Let me encourage you. Today is the best day in your life to begin the adventure of "eating" God's Word in Scripture memorization. You will never regret your decision to launch out into the "great adventure" that lays ahead.

For additional motivation, read through some of the articles in the next section and then in the following section consider one of the established programs to begin your journey. If you would rather not use a computerized program, I would recommend the Navigator's Topical Memory System - TMS (see also Scripture Memory Secrets)  because it won't overwhelm you and yet is still solid food which if you practice it, will train (gumnazo [word study]) your senses...to discern (diakrisis [word study]) good and evil. (He 5:14-note).

The Bible is the language of heaven, and will not pass away (Mt 24:35), so let us enter into this spiritual discipline with delight, great joy and a sense of expectation, not out of a sense of guilt,  legalism or onerous duty. We are not our own but are children and "bond-servants (doulos [word study]) of the Most High God" (In the OT the Name is El Elyon - Sovereign Over All) (Acts 16:17), who should be motivated by the love of Christ (2Cor 5:14) to have as our earnest "ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him" (2Cor 5:9) As with any "spiritual discipline" there is always the subtle danger of becoming pharisaical or prideful and we are ever in danger of failing prey to a subtle form of legalism.

Pastor Ray Stedman has a great discussion of the danger believers face in this area of legalism. His transcript is very good but if you have time I would recommend listening to his message as it adds inflections, etc, not possible in a written document. (Legalism - transcript or Legalism - Mp3)

The practice of Jesus Himself is ample testimony to the value of Scripture memorization. Jesus said Thus saith the Lord or God said or It is written or Have you not read that it was said 92 times! Clearly our Lord Jesus Christ, fully God and fully Man, left an example (hupogrammos [word study]) for (us) to follow in His steps (1Pe 2:21-note). As Paul commanded the saints at Ephesus we should be imitators (mimetes [word study]) of God, as beloved children (Ep 5:1-note)

Many years ago the village priest in Kalonovaka, Russia, took a special liking to a pug-nosed lad who recited his Scriptures with proper piety. By offering various inducements, the priest managed to teach the boy the four Gospels, which he recited nonstop in church one day. Sixty years later he still liked to recite Scriptures, but in a context that would have horrified the old priest. The prize pupil who memorized so much of the Bible was Nikita Khrushchev, former premier of the Soviet Union! John W. Alexander, former president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, gives us this warning:

"There is little merit inherent in the mere process of memorizing Scripture. One could memorize voluminous portions and be an atheist. Satan memorized enough to use it to tempt Jesus...Memorizing is helpful when we yearn for Scripture to energize our whole lives....What makes the difference between superficial and beneficial Scripture memorization? I believe it is prayerful meditation. Memorization in itself may sharpen our intellectual capacities, but that's about all. Memorization with a view to meditation helps us think straight in a crooked world. (excepted from Memorizing God's Word)

Dr. Howard Hendricks has made the statement (and I paraphrase) that if it were his decision, every student graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary would be required to learn 1000 verses word perfect before they received their degree. May his tribe increase!

Well known Bible teacher Dr. Chuck Swindoll has written:

"I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture...No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified." (from Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life)

Considering such indisputable benefits to one's spiritual health, one has to wonder why there is not more emphasis on Scripture memory and meditation in the average American church. Could it be that it is still true that

When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart? (Mt 13:19)

But (Jesus introduces a dramatic contrast) the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest (kalos [word study]) and good (agathos [word study]) heart (kardia [word study]), and hold it fast, and bear fruit (karpophoreo [word study] in the present tense = they have the blessing of being continually "spiritually fertile and fruitful" bearing fruit that will last throughout eternity - Jn 15:16NIV, Jn 15:5, 8) - Do miss this "once in a lifetime offer too good to refuse"! You only go around once! cp James 4:14, Jas 1:10, 11-note, 1Pe 1:24-note, Job 7:7, Ps 103:15-note) with perseverance (hupomone [word study]). (Lk 8:15).

So brothers and sisters let us persevere with great delight in this discipline of Scriptural memorization for one day we will discover the glorious truth that this was one of the most fruitful investments of our time that we could have ever made in this life.

INVEST IN A "STOCK"
THAT WILL NEVER DECLINE
AND WILL PAY DIVIDENDS FOR ETERNITY!

In my own practice of memorizing God's Word, I have found that one of the most critical aspects (other than a constant dependence on prayer that God might graciously grant me a heart hunger to eat His Word) is frequent and systematic review of verses. I use a "multi-pronged attack" including: Typing or writing out scripture on small cards that I keep in my pocket for those times I'm stuck in elevators, long winded meetings or long lines at the super market. I also dictate the current verses I am focusing on into a mini recorder (Ipods work too) which is great for redeeming those times I get caught in traffic jams on the freeway and allows you to have several cassettes of your "favorite" verses. Most of these micro cassette recorders allow easy playback so that you can keep your eye on the road while driving. I also keep a small pocket sized Bible close at hand (car, briefcase, etc) to allow quick review of verses in context and I highlight those verses I have already memorized.

The Bible on tape/CD is another great modality, especially if you have a long commute time. CD versions are advantageous because they can be quickly "rewound' to the beginning of a chapter to facilitate repetition. REMEMBER that NONE of these ideas or the resources below are of any value in memorizing the Word of God if you have not first sought the God of the Word. Otherwise all of these "tools" can be misused and potentially produce pride, pedantry and a Pharisaical attitude as alluded to earlier. The foundational keynote of "humility" is sounded by James who reminds us after

putting aside (apotithemi [word study]) all filthiness (rhuparia [word study]) and all that remains (perisseia [word study]) of wickedness (kakia [word study]), in HUMILITY (prautes [word study] KJV = "meekness" - with a meek disposition, a gentleness of spirit) receive (dechomai [word study]) the word (logos [word study]) implanted (emphutos [word study]), which is able (dunamai [word study]) to save (sozo [word study]) your souls (Jas 1:21-note, cp the attitude of a little child in Mt 18:3,4)

As someone has well said sin will keep you from the Bible or the Bible will keep you from sin. Bibles that are "falling apart" usually belong to people who are not.

A CONTEXTUAL
CAUTION

One note of caution - Be careful when memorizing single verses that you do not "wrench" them out of their context, lest you give the passage a meaning (and an interpretation) God never intended. Always examine the context surrounding the verse you are memorizing or even better memorize larger sections of Scripture, including chapters or even entire books.

As Billy Graham once said...

I am convinced that one of the greatest things we can do is to memorize Scripture.

When was the last time you memorized a passage of Scripture? God's Word has a cleansing effect. You must (no excuses please) get into the Word so that it can get into you and can then become effective in your life, as the Spirit uses it ("the washing with water through the word" - Ep 5:26-note) to renew our minds and transform our thinking (Ro 12:2-note) so that we are enabled more and more to discern the will of God at every turn of the road of our life (see notes Ephesians 4:14; Hebrews 5:14). The Word obeyed is the best  preventative for the "dirt" of this world which is passing away as are it's lusts.

Why Memorize Scripture?
by John Piper

Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus steadier and clearer.

2. Daily Triumph over Sin

3. Daily Triumph over Satan

When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness he recited Scripture from memory and put Satan to flight (Matthew 4:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11).

4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love

That is a beautiful way of saying, When the heart full of God’s love can draw on the mind full of God’s word, timely blessings flow from the mouth.

5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers

Opportunities to share the gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. Actual verses of the Bible have their own penetrating power. And when they come from our heart, as well as from the Book, the witness is given that they are precious enough to learn. We should all be able to sum up the gospel under four main headings (1) God’s holiness/law/glory; 2) man’s sin/rebellion/disobedience; 3) Christ’s death for sinners; 4) the free gift of life by faith. Learn a verse or two relating to each of these, and be ready in season and out of season to share them.

6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways

Listen to  John Piper discuss his approach to memorizing Scripture. Two of the keys? Pray for discipline and set aside time. How do you memorize Scripture? (Download the Mp3)

MEMORIZE AN ENTIRE
BOOK OF THE BIBLE

Here's a challenge for you - Consider memorizing an entire book or store with a Psalm like Psalm 1 or Psalm 19, or if you are really adventurous, consider Paul's doctrinally rich and practically applicable epistle to the Ephesians. If you're up for the challenge and the blessing you will receive, below is a link to an 11 page Pdf document by Dr Andrew Davis, which will guide you through memorization of an entire book of the Bible.

May you be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, that He might give you the will (desire) and the working out (enablement) to accomplish such a rewarding objective...

An Approach to the Extended Memorization of Scripture (opens a Pdf)

What is
the Bible?

As a new Christian I was encouraged to memorize Scripture. Introduced to the Topical Memory System of the Navigators, I amassed several score of verses on salvation, prayer, the Christian life, etc. Often during my high school lunch hour I would slip away to a quiet place for review. This investment was for a lifetime. Again and again in preaching and counseling, these verses have come back to me. How grateful I am that as a young believer I was introduced to hiding God’s Word in my heart. (Briscoe, D. S., & Ogilvie, L. J. The Preacher's Commentary Series.  Thomas Nelson or Logos)

SOME LESSONS
FROM THE
WISDOM OF JOB

Job 23:10-12

Comment: As an aside it is noteworthy that Col 3:16 clearly parallels Eph 5:18-note, Ep 5:19, 20-note, indicating how vital it is for believers to let the Word richly dwell within and how better than to memorize it so that we might meditate on it! In so doing we establish the proper "milieu" in which the Spirit can continually fill us and controls us, as we learn (and choose) to surrender our will (step by step, moment by moment, test by test, etc) to His Holy Spirit and His holy Word! In short, Bible memorization while not automatically assuring you will experience continual control by the Spirit, is certain instrumental in that desirable spiritual dynamic. Eat the Word. Obey the Word. Live out the Word in the power of the Holy Spirit! All for the glory of the Father (Mt 5:16-note, Jn 15:8, Ps 115:1-note)

Remember that memorization is a first step to meditation. You cannot chew what you have placed in your mouth!

Scripture Memory Secrets: Excellent one page synopsis of "how to's" which should jump start anyone's Scripture memorization program. Based on the legendary Navigator's "The Topical Memory System". You can save the $10 (see Topical Memory System below) and organize a ("homemade" version by utilizing the hints in the Scripture Memory Secrets in combination with the listing of the 5 topics and 60 verses (with subtopics) found in the original "Topical Memory System". If you finish these verses and are still "hungry" for His word go to the next item...

Hear The Bible Spoken (NASB, NIV and KJV available from BibleGateway): to help memorize Scripture

Scripture Release is the Navigator's Topical Memory System (TMS) set to music. This is the original "soul music" to feed your deepest needs.  For those who have had past challenges in memorization, this is a way to get started. Twenty-four verse/songs as performed by artists like Lisa Bevill and Kim Hill. All songs and helps are FREE downloads.

DOWNLOAD InstaVerse for free. It is an easy to install and simple to use Bible Verse pop up tool that allows you to read cross references in context and in the Version you prefer. Only the  KJV is free with this download. Other popular versions are available for purchase. When you hold the mouse pointer over a Scripture reference anywhere on the Web (as well as offline in Word for Windows, email, etc) the passage pops up immediately. InstaVerse can be disabled if the popups become distractive. This utility really does work and makes it easy to read the actual passage in context and not just the chapter and verse reference.

Here's what I do with my memory verses - I type out the Chapter and Verse on a Word for Windows document or Word Pad (InstaVerse works with both but not with Pdf's) and save it to my desktop or Quick Launch (This is located on the bar across the bottom of your screen - hold pointer over the bar and select "Quick Launch" and then drag the "perforated" line which is on the left side [near the "Start" icon] to the right to expand it. Then drag your Word Document with Memory verse Chapter/Verse addresses from your desktop and drop it in Quick Launch. Now you have no excuse for not quickly reviewing your memory verses any time of the day! Make it a daily habit. Eat the Word. It's the breakfast of real champions and will make you a mighty man or woman in Christ (be sure to obey from the heart the word you eat in the power of the Spirit so that you do not become a proud "Pharisee" with a condemning judgmental spirit for all those who don't know as many verses as you do! Remember the beatitude "Blessed are the poor in spirit" (Mt 5:3-note), always mindful of your spiritual bankruptcy outside of Christ (cf John 15:5, Col 3:3-note, etc) and thus your continual need to depend on the Spirit of Christ and the Word of Truth for your spiritual sustenance and growth in the grace and knowledge of our Lord (cf 2Pe 3:18-note). Enjoy!
 

><> ><> ><>

Keep The Goal In View -- Don't study the Bible to be able to quote it; study it to obey it.

Bible scholar William Barclay tells of his walks through the meadow with his bull terrier Rusty. Whenever his dog came to a shallow creek, he jumped in and started removing stones, one by one, dropping them haphazardly on the shore. This pointless activity would go on for hours.

Barclay says that Rusty's strange behavior reminds him of some self-proclaimed experts on the Bible. They expend enormous energy and countless hours trying to interpret obscure passages, but all their effort does nothing to edify themselves or others.

Through the years I have received long letters from people like that. Some show me how to know exactly who the Antichrist will be. Others claim to have found the key to certain Bible mysteries by studying the meaning of names in the lists of genealogies.

Apparently there were some teachers in Ephesus who were trying to impress the believers by weaving myths and fables into their interpretation of the Bible. But what they taught did nothing to promote godliness. It was therefore as pointless as Rusty's stone removal project.

Paul said to Timothy, "Exercise yourself toward godliness." That's the most important goal to keep in view as we study the Bible. —Herbert Vander Lugt (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved)

Oh, grant us grace, Almighty Lord!
To read and mark Thy holy Word,
Its truths with meekness to receive,
And by its holy precepts live. —Boddome

><> ><> ><>

Exceeding great and precious promises A few thoughts from Spurgeon on meditation (from his devotional on 2Pe 1:4-note)

If you would know experimentally the preciousness of the promises, and enjoy them in your own heart, meditate much upon them. There are promises which are like grapes in the wine-press; if you will tread them the juice will flow. Thinking over the hallowed words will often be the prelude to their fulfilment. While you are musing upon them, the boon which you are seeking will insensibly come to you. Many a Christian who has thirsted for the promise has found the favour which it ensured gently distilling into his soul even while he has been considering the divine record; and he has rejoiced that ever he was led to lay the promise near his heart. But besides meditating upon the promises, seek in thy soul to receive them as being the very words of God. Speak to thy soul thus, "If I were dealing with a man's promise, I should carefully consider the ability and the character of the man who had covenanted with me. So with the promise of God; my eye must not be so much fixed upon the greatness of the mercy-that may stagger me; as upon the greatness of the promiser-that will cheer me. My soul, it is God, even thy God, God that cannot lie, who speaks to thee. This word of his which thou art now considering is as true as his own existence. He is a God unchangeable. He has not altered the thing which has gone out of his mouth, nor called back one single consolatory sentence. Nor doth he lack any power; it is the God that made the heavens and the earth who has spoken thus. Nor can he fail in wisdom as to the time when he will bestow the favours, for he knoweth when it is best to give and when better to withhold. Therefore, seeing that it is the word of a God so true, so immutable, so powerful, so wise, I will and must believe the promise." If we thus meditate upon the promises, and consider the Promiser, we shall experience their sweetness, and obtain their fulfilment.

><> ><> ><>

Biblical Meditation is an excellent discussion on what Scripture teaches about meditation. Regarding the question of what meditation means Hampton Keathley writes...

The first question we must consider concerns the meaning of meditation and what meditation involves. This is particularly important to the Christian because of the great and growing emphasis on meditation in eastern religions. Transcendental meditation, as it is often called, is not biblical meditation. It is dangerous and actually opens up one’s mind for Satanic attack as it is found in New Age thinking. My purpose here is to deal only with the meaning and blessing of biblical meditation and to point out that eastern forms of meditation and biblical meditation are miles apart... Meditation means “the act of focusing one’s thoughts: to ponder, think on, muse.” Meditation consists of reflective thinking or contemplation, usually on a specific subject to discern its meaning or significance or a plan of action.  (Click full article)

See also related topics on Biblical Meditation

Discussion of Biblical Meditation

Primer of Biblical Meditation

><> ><> ><>

Real Motivation! Pr 2:10, 11 - If your life depended on knowing the Bible, how long would you last? You must read this one for your "spiritual" live, particularly life that is abundant does depend on intake of the Word of Truth.

><> ><> ><>

Illustration of the Incredible Impact of One Bible in Poland during WWII

Noted Bible teacher E. Schuyler English told of Michael Billester, a Bible distributor who visited a small hamlet in Poland shortly before World War II. Billester gave a Bible to a villager, who was converted by reading it. The new believer then passed the Book on to others. The cycle of conversions (Note the intrinsic, inherent power of the Word to bear spiritual fruit! cp Col 1:5, 6, 7-note,  Acts 6:7, 11:1, 12:24, 17:13, 19:20, 1Th 2:13-note, Ro 1:16-note. So what's the point? Give out the Word!) and sharing continued until 200 people had become believers through that one Bible. When Billester returned in 1940, this group of Christians met together for a worship service in which he was to preach the Word. He normally asked for testimonies, but this time he suggested that several in the audience recite verses of Scripture. One man stood and said, "Perhaps we have misunderstood. Did you mean verses or chapters?" These villagers had not memorized a few select verses of the Bible but whole chapters and books. Thirteen people knew Matthew, Luke, and half of Genesis. Another person had committed to memory the Psalms. That single copy of the Bible given by Billester had done its work. Transformed lives bore witness to the power of the Word. (from Sermon Illustrations)

><> ><> ><>

The Old Violin

I love Thy commandments more than gold, yes, more than fine gold! Psalm 119:127 (See Spurgeon's note)

London music student Richard Steel prized the old violin that had once been his grandfather's. One day Richard tried to help a bus driver who couldn't get close to the curb because of a barrier. Putting  aside his old violin, he removed the obstacle. But then the driver, unable to see the books and the violin, drove over them.

The crushed books could be replaced. And the old violin, though valued for sentimental reasons, could be replaced too -- or could it?

As Richard examined his splintered instrument, inside he found the signature of Stradivarius, the greatest of all violin makers. The old violin was a priceless and irreplaceable masterpiece. The Sotheby auction firm estimated that it had been worth more than $700,000.

Many families pass treasured Bibles from one generation to the next as spiritual heirlooms. But these treasures are often treated as mere antiques while their pages go unread and their promises remain unclaimed. The message of salvation goes unheeded.  Its true value is never realized.

The Bible is more than just a record of long-ago events and ancient wisdom. It is the Book that bears God's signature. It is His message of truth and grace to us. Let's not neglect it. Let's read it, believe it, and obey it.-- Vernon C. Grounds (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved)

Thy Word is like a deep, deep mine,
And jewels rich and rare
Are hidden in its mighty depths
For every searcher there.-- Hodder

Many people store the Bible on the shelf
instead of in their heart.

><> ><> ><>

Food For the Year  January 1, 1997. READ: Jeremiah 15:15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21

Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. --Jeremiah 15:16

It's a good thing I grew up liking black-eyed peas, because my mother served them every New Year's Day. She didn't think this tradition would bring good luck, as some people believe, but the practice persisted at our house.

Many Americans welcome the new year with cabbage, herring, honey, sardines, or salt. The Japanese eat long noodles. The Greeks bake a special bread. In Spain, the custom is to eat 12 individual grapes in the seconds leading up to the new year. Anthropologists say that eating certain foods to change one's fortune dates back to ancient Babylonia.

The prophet Jeremiah wasn't looking for good luck. As God's spokesman during a difficult time in Israel's history, he suffered rejection and persecution. Yet God's Word produced deep joy in his heart. In a vivid statement, he said to God, "Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart" (Jer. 15:16).

Eating black-eyed peas won't influence the year ahead of me one bit. But if I'll make God's Word a part of my life each day through reading, study, and memorization, that will make a difference. The Bible is food for thought and nourishment for the new year. —David C. McCasland (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved)

Then let me love my Bible more
And take a fresh delight
By day to read these wonders o'er
And meditate by night. --Watts

The Bible is bread for daily use, not cake for special occasions.
 

><> ><> ><>

Don't Be a Parakeet -  memorization is not to inform you but to transform you...Our Daily Bread has the following devotional that speaks to this point...April 11, 1998, 1Corinthians 2:6-16

No one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. --1Corinthians 2:11

On several occasions I visited a retired pastor who had a pet parakeet named Gibby Gibson. It would say, "Gibby Gibson is the prettiest bird in all the world." Or it would repeat, "Dr. Gibson is a preacher--a Baptist preacher." But, of course, the bird didn't understand one word it was saying.

Herein lies a lesson. Too many Christians go through the habitual motions of worship and Bible reading without the slightest idea of the meaning of what they are doing. They seem to think there is some secret charm or mystical benefit in just going through it.

The issue is not how much of the Bible you read, but how well you read it. I have heard many people boast about how many times they have read through the Bible, but their conversation revealed a tragic ignorance of the Word of God. Better to read one verse prayerfully, seeking the guidance of your "Paraclete" (translated as "Comforter" or "Helper" in John 14:16), the Holy Spirit, than to rattle off a whole book from memory like a parakeet. The important question is, "Do you understand what you are reading?" (Acts 8:30).

When you read the Bible, ask the Holy Spirit, your "Paraclete," to guide you. Don't be a parakeet. —M. R. De Haan  (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved)

Ever-present, truest Friend,
Ever near Thine aid to lend;
Guide us as we search the Word,
Make it both our shield and sword. --Anon.

It's better to live one verse of the Bible
than to recite an entire chapter.
 

><> ><> ><>
 

No Fast Food in the Bible: Meditation is like "chewing the cud" Read the following devotional that addresses this point...November 5, 2005, READ: Psalm 119:9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 - see notes

I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways. —Psalm 119:15 (See Spurgeon's note)

I love the sight of cows lying in the field, chewing their cud. But what is cud? And why do they spend so much time chewing it?

Cows first fill their stomachs with grass and other food. Then they settle down for a good long chew. They bring the food back up from their stomachs and rework what they've already eaten, assimilating its goodness and transforming it into rich creamy milk. Time-consuming? Yes. A waste of time? Not if they want to give good milk.

The phrase "chewing the cud" is used to describe the process of meditation. The writer of Psalm 119 obviously did a lot of mental chewing as he read God's Word. No fast food for him! If we follow his example of careful and prayerful Scripture reading, we will:

Be strengthened against sin (Psalm 119:11) (note)

Find delight in learning more about God (Psalm 119:15, 16) (note v15; v16)

Discover wonderful spiritual truths (Psalm 119:18) (note)

Find wise counsel for daily living (Psalm 119:24) (note)

Meditation is more than reading the Bible and believing it. It's applying Scripture to everyday life.

God's Word is not meant to be fast food. Take time for a good long chew. —Joanie Yoder (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved)

Break Thou the bread of life, dear Lord, to me,
As Thou didst break the loaves beside the sea;
Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee, O living Word. —Lathbury

To be a healthy Christian,
don't treat the Bible as snack food

><> ><> ><>

Memorize It!  Ps119:11 When the Bible becomes a part of you, you'll be less likely to come apart.

><> ><> ><>

C H Spurgeon commenting on Psalm 119:11 wrote...

Thy word have I hid in mine heart. His heart would be kept by the word because he kept the word in his heart. All that he had of the word written, and all that had been revealed to him by the voice of God, -- all, without exception, he had stored away in his affections, as a treasure to be preserved in a casket, or as a choice seed to be buried in a fruitful soil: what soil more fruitful than a renewed heart, wholly seeking the Lord? The word was God's own, and therefore precious to God's servant. He did not wear a text on his heart as a charm, but he hid it in his heart as a rule. He laid it up in the place of love and life, and it filled the chamber with sweetness and light. We must in this imitate David, copying his heart work as well as his outward character. First, we must mind that what we believe is truly God's word; that being done, we must hide or treasure it each man for himself; and we must see that this is done, not as a mere feat of the memory, but as the joyful act of the affections. (Spurgeon on Ps 119:11)
 

><> ><> ><>

Meditation in Nave's Topical Bible (see ISBE "Meditation" and Torrey's Character of a Renewed Heart)

Renew Your Mind See notes on Romans 12:2

Meditate on the Word of the Lord Day and Night (Psalm 1) by John Piper who explains that meditation on the Word is difficult if one does not first memorize it and that

"the depth and solidity and certainty of your walk with God and your communion with God will rise and fall with whether God's own written Word is the warp and woof of the fabric of your fellowship." (Recommendation: Read the entire sermon)

Meditation by Henry Blackaby His comments are eye opening

An Advanced Scripture Memory Program - from Bible.org

Ongoing Meditation  Ps 119:97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104 (notes) - Reading the Bible without meditating on it is like eating without chewing.

Quiet Time: Seven Minutes with God: A good place to begin if your quiet time has become too "quiet" or your schedule has become too busy for time with God (a place we all have been from time to time). (See also The Morning Hour  by Andrew Murray)

A primer on Meditation This brief article describes how to meditate on God's Holy Word, a spiritual discipline seldom practiced but one that yields truly life changing dividends.  Below is an excerpt...

Meditation is simply thought prolonged and directed to a single object. Your mystic chambers where thoughts abide are the secret workshop of an unseen Sculptor chiseling living forms for a deathless future. Personality and influence are modeled here. Hence, the biblical injunction: 'Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life' (A. T. Pierson).

Meditation is chewing. It is like the graphic picture of a cow and her process of mastication -- bringing up previously digested food for renewed grinding and preparation for assimilation.

Meditation is pondering and reviewing various thoughts by mulling them over in the mind and heart. It is the processing of mental food. We might call it "thought digestion." "Chewing" upon a thought, deliberately and thoroughly, provides provides a vital link between theory and action. What metabolism is to the physical body of the cow, meditation is to your mental and spiritual life.

Meditation is analyzing. It is the art of taking a good, long look at a given object as the craftsman does his dazzling jewel -- polishing the diamond to reflect all its light and beauty. Meditation on a portion of the Holy Bible is like gazing at a prism of many facets, turning the stone from angle to angle in the bright sunlight. Steady and constant reflection reveals unlimited beauties from the Scriptures which will never otherwise be seen.

Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law (Ps119:18).

Meditation is action. Someone has described it: "Making words into thoughts and thoughts into actions." It is mental planning ahead with definite action in mind for accomplishing a job. Andrew Murray describes it: "Holding the Word of God in your heart until it has affected every phase of your life... this is meditation." (bolding and colors added) Click full article

The Wheel: Basics of the Christ-Centered Spirit-Filled Life: audio of 12 foundational verses in 3 translations plus a 3-4 audio discussion of each verse to aid your understanding, application and retention. This could be a good place to begin your journey if you've never memorized Scripture before. Try the sample link on the verse I quoted the day I testified to the world in water baptism that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God. 2Corinthians 5:17. Click for comparison of the various Bible translations from most literal to most paraphrased, and do not use the latter as your major source for memory verses

Topical Memory System: This is the "old standby" which launched my Scripture memorization program many years ago. I cannot begin to count the times the Spirit of God has brought these "first memory verses" back to mind in teaching, witnessing and "everyday life" situations. If you've never memorized Scripture I personally think this simple but solid system is the best way to begin. After this 30-week Navigators course, you'll not only have 60 key verses memorized, you'll also know how to meditate on Scripture and apply it to your life. The set includes a how-to booklet, a pocket sized "verse carrier", and 60 verses on business sized cards with your choice of NIV, KJV, NASB or NKJV. You will find these 60 verses will by the Spirit and the grace in which we stand together give you the potential to gain...

(1) Freedom from Anxiety: Memorizing and meditating on God's Word will help you overcome worry. You can experience God's perfect peace by having His promises written on your heart.

(2) Victory over Sin: God's Word hidden in your heart is the sword of the Spirit, available for battle at any time against sin and Satan.

(3) Confidence in Witnessing: One of the five series of verses in the Topical Memory System will give you a workable plan for sharing the gospel with others.

(4) Spiritual Fitness: Scripture memory will help you keep spiritually fit. You will experience immediate benefits and become better equipped to meet future needs and opportunities

The Scripture Memory Connection (FREE Computer Version) is packed with information dedicated to Scripture memorization, including sections on Why memorize?, How to memorize? and How to meditate?, as well as a free Windows based tool to assist your memory work and finally an exhaustive set of LINKS listed below:

    Scripture Memory Software
    Email and Discussion Forums
    Personal Web Sites
    Organizations / Church Groups
    The Scripture Memory Web Ring

Memlok  is a computer based system that connects pictures with specific verses and automatically sets up a review schedule which addresses one of the chief pitfalls of most attempts to memorize Scripture (click sample below to enlarge). Note that the 550 verses are available in NIV, KJV, NASB, NKJV and 48 Topics. "See Memlok's list of 44 Scripture tips to aid memorization. 

Fourth and fifth graders were tested on what they remembered about a story (with and without pictures). A day later, those with a picture did 59% better, and a week later 86% better. - Education Communication and Technology Journal. See endorsements.

Fighter Verse Memorization System: From DesiringGod.org, John Piper's website. They explain that...

The Fighter Verses memory system was devised to help believers persevere in the fight of faith by arming them with God's Word. Designed for school-age children through adults, this system allows individuals, group, or entire churches to memorize and review at their own pace. Bethlehem Baptist uses this as a church-wide memory system with hundreds of adults and children committed to memorize one passage per week throughout the year. The pack includes more than 500 verses, a handbook, a review verse sleeve, and a binder for storage. We invite you to join us in becoming armed with the Word of God!

Charles Haddon Spurgeon comments on "He hath said" in (Heb 13:5-note) with some words to encourage saints to memorize God's word so that "the word of Christ (would) richly  dwell within" (Col 3:16-note)

Spurgeon writes:

"If we can only grasp these words by faith, we have an all-conquering weapon in our hand. What doubt will not be slain by this two-edged sword? What fear is there which shall not fall smitten with a deadly wound before this arrow from the bow of God's covenant? Will not the distresses of life and the pangs of death; will not the corruptions within, and the snares without; will not the trials from above, and the temptations from beneath, all seem but light afflictions, when we can hide ourselves beneath the bulwark of "He hath said"? Yes; whether for delight in our quietude, or for strength in our conflict, "He hath said" must be our daily resort.

And this may teach us the extreme value of searching the Scriptures. There may be a promise in the Word which would exactly fit your case, but you may not know of it, and therefore you miss its comfort. You are like prisoners in a dungeon, and there may be one key in the bunch which would unlock the door, and you might be free; but if you will not look for it, you may remain a prisoner still, though liberty is so near at hand. There may be a potent medicine in the great pharmacopoeia of Scripture, and you may yet continue sick unless you will examine and search the Scriptures to discover what "He hath said."

if we really want the Bible to become a part of us so that by this means the mind of Christ, which is expressed in the Bible, becomes our mind at least in part, then we must memorize important sections of Scripture. Our educational system does little to stress memorization today, but those who were educated a generation ago will testify that what they memorized then, whether simple verses or more complex passages from Shakespeare or other distinguished writers, have remained with them and have thereby become a part of who they are. As Christians we need to allow the Word of God to become a part of us. To have that happen we must memorize it.

In his book "What Matters Most: Four Absolute Necessities in Following Christ" Pastor Tony Evans emphasizes memorization writing that...

Another way to read the Word is to memorize it. The psalmist said in Psalm 119:11,

“Thy word I have treasured in my heart.”

There’s no greater exercise than to memorize Scripture. If you have never done it before, start with a verse a week. At the end of a year, you’ll have fifty-two verses in your memory bank.

The purpose of memorizing Scripture is not so you can win a contest or a prize. God’s concern is that you have the Word in your heart so that you have it ready to use in any situation.

Why is that important? Because the Word of God is “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17). It’s the Word that the Holy Spirit uses to help you when tough times come. But if you don’t have the Word in your heart and mind, the Holy Spirit has no sword to pull out and wield.

The best example of the value of knowing Scripture is Jesus in the wilderness being tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11). Jesus answered Satan each time, “It is written.” Jesus didn’t open a copy of the Old Testament and show Satan the verse. He simply responded out of what was in His heart.

I can’t tell you how many times God has brought His Word to my mind to show me which way I should go. That’s what the Holy Spirit does. He illumines our minds with the Word so that we can see what we ought to do. But we must first be diligent to put the Word into our minds.

In Proverbs 22:17, 18, we read this advice:

“Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply your mind to my knowledge; for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, that they may be ready on your lips.”

The Word cannot come to your lips and go out of your mouth until it is first “within you,” in your mind.

Then the writer says,

“I have taught you today.… Have I not written to you excellent things of counsels and knowledge?” (Proverbs 22:19,20).

He is saying, “I wrote what you need, but you have to keep it within you.” If you will cooperate with the Spirit by working to memorize Scripture, He can put in your mind what needs to come out of your mouth when you face hard circumstances and difficulties.

You may be saying, “Tony, you don’t know me. I’m not good at memorizing things.” If you can remember your name, address, telephone number, and the names and phone numbers of a few friends, you can memorize Scripture.

For most of us, the real deal is that we don’t feel like doing Bible memory. Suppose you were offered ten thousand dollars for every verse you memorize. You would become the Bible memory champion of the world. That ten thousand dollars would give you brain cells you never knew you had before. Why? The reward would be worth the effort.

The prophet Ezekiel said that when God told him to eat the scroll containing His word to Israel, it was as sweet as honey in Ezekiel’s mouth (Ezek 3:1-15-notes). It was good to the taste. It was worth the effort. You only know whether something’s worth the effort when you put in the effort to find out.

When you see the Word of God become alive in your life, when you see it bubble forth from your heart, and when you see God honor His Word, then the issue of whether you’re good at Bible memory will disappear. When you find that you can send the devil packing with the Word the way Jesus did, you’ll know it is worth the effort to hide God’s Word in your heart.

Many of us have been telling the devil, “Go away, leave me alone.” But he doesn’t go anywhere, because it’s not our word he is afraid of. He’s only afraid of God’s Word. Many Christians don’t know that Satan can’t hang with the Word. Why can’t he? Because it is the power of God (Ro 1:16-note).

When Satan hears the Word, he hears the voice of God. And he can’t handle that voice. Jesus quoted three verses to Satan, and he was gone. Three strikes and he’s out.

CAUTION
MEMORIZATION
WITHOUT GENUINE
RECEPTION AND APPLICATION
IS DECEPTION!

William Cowper comments on Ps 119:11:

Last week I issued a challenge for some brave souls to memorize Psalm 119 this year. That’s a big task because it’s the longest chapter in the Bible. During the week I heard from two people who told me they planned to do it. Both are women, which didn’t surprise me because most of us men just can’t face a challenge like that. “I just can’t do it,” we say. Well, you won’t know whether you can or not until you put down the remote control and pick up your Bible. Then I heard from another woman and later I learned about a group of three men who are meeting each week to memorize Psalm 119. This morning one woman gave me a card and had me check her out on the first three verses.

The most touching message came from one of our teenagers. Here is part of her e-mail to me:

Hello Pastor Ray, I just wanted to let you know that your challenge for people to memorize all of Psalm 119 really spoke to my heart and I have been doing so since last week. When you said that memorizing this would bring people closer to the Lord, I had no idea how much truth was in that statement. Since memorizing is not one of my strong points I have had to rely on the Lord from the start of taking on this challenge. I can honestly say that I have never been so close to the Lord, or have had Him on my mind more than I have this past week. I’m sure many others have thanked you for giving that challenge by now, but from the bottom of my heart, thank you! The Lord is amazing, and it is amazing how far I am in my memorizing journey. I’m three times as far as I am supposed to be at this point. Now that is a miracle! You have kindled my steady flame of passion for the Lord, to a blaze! God Bless!

Introduction to Inductive Bible Study

Observation - What does it say?

Interpretation - What does it mean?

Application - How do I respond?

Bible Versions - How literal is your translation?
Bible Commentaries - some comments and caveats
Seven Minutes with God - jumpstart your quiet time if it's too "quiet"!