Why Memorize Scripture?

I know I should memorize Scripture. But is that a reason enough to do it? Why have I often begun something I know I should do, to eventually lose steam and burn out? Doing something simply because I think I should do it usually doesn’t end well. To persevere through any longterm task, our motivation to succeed must be greater than the resistance we will inevitably face. Accepting the challenge to memorize 12 Bible verses this year must be motivated by a solid reason to succeed.

Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You. Psalm 119:11

A Command?

Let’s get this out of the way. God’s Word does not specifically command us to memorize Scripture. In the Old Testament, the Jewish people were instructed to meditate on God’s Word (Joshua 1:8), and to bind it as a sign on their hands and forehead, and to write it on the doorposts of their homes (Deuteronomy 11:18-20). In the New Testament we are told to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). But we do not see a specific command to memorize Scripture. More importantly, what we do find are illustrations throughout Scripture of the benefits of knowing God’s Word, as well as warnings for not following His Words. Herein lies our motivation. The benefits of memorizing Scripture. When we understand the benefits of committing Scripture to memory, believing they far exceed any opposition, only then will we succeed.

Reasons to Memorize Scripture

1. To make wise decisions

Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. Psalm 119:105
For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6
Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding! Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth. Proverbs 4:5
and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15

2. To resist temptations and live in obedience

How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You. Psalm 119:9,11
Those who love Your law have great peace, And nothing causes them to stumble. Psalm 119:165
The law of his God is in his heart; His steps do not slip. Psalm 37:31
I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your Law is within my heart. Psalm 40:8

3. For our own strength and comfort

Remember the word to Your servant, In which You have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, That Your word has revived me. Psalm 119:49-50
I shall delight in Your statutes; I shall not forget Your word. Psalm 119:16
I have remembered Your ordinances from of old, O Lord, And comfort myself. Psalm 119:52
Your words were found and I ate them, And Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; For I have been called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts. Jeremiah 15:16

4. To encourage other believers

Therefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:18
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness 2 Timothy 3:16
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16

5. To witness to unbelievers

but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence 1 Peter 3:15
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17