I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:11, English Standard Version)

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12, English Standard Version)

Introduction

Our third challenge recognizes the importance of God’s word.  With technological advancements, it is now very easy to find Bible verses on electronic devices even if you only have a few search parameters.  However, the benefits of being able to recall passages of Scripture from memory remain.  Too often we convince ourselves that memorization is an activity that we grow out of. Bible verse memorization helps us to “renew our mind” at any age.       

Challenge #3 – God’s Word 

Memorize the following 5 verses from Isaiah and Philippians over 5 days: 

Isaiah 26:3-4 (English Standard Version)

³ You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

⁴ Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.

Philippians 4:6-8 (English Standard Version)

⁶ do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 

⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

10 Tips to Consider

1. Pray for God’s help as you memorize the verses.
2. Read the verses in context to ensure you are comfortable with their application.
3. Partner with others (this is an excellent challenge to do in community).
4. You can use your favorite Bible translation (i.e., NIV, ESV, KJV, etc.)
5. Use an approach that fits your learning style.
6. Use physical memorization aids (e.g., notebooks and Post-it Notes).
7. Use digital memorization aids (e.g., mobile phones and voice recorders). There are also free, add-free Apps such as VerseLocker that focus on Bible verse memorization. 
8. Be alert to opportunities to share the memorized verses to help someone.
9. Incorporate the verses in your prayer.
10. Exact recall is not the objective.  The focus should be application.