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Why Memorize Scriptures?
by John Piper

Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, "Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation... This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth..."

Chuck Swindoll wrote, "I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... 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."

A few reasons why Scripture memorization is essential:
1) Conformity to Christ
Paul wrote that "And we... are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is Spirit." (2 Corinthian 3:18) If we would be changed into Christ-likeness we must steadily see Him. "The Lord continued to appear at Shiloh, and there He revealed Himself to Samuel through His Word." (1 Samuel 3: 21) Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus steadier and clearer.

2) Daily Triumph oer Sin
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your Word... I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You." (Psalm 119: 9, 11) Paul said that we must "by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body" (Romans 8: 13). The one piece of armor used to kill is the "sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God" (Ephesians 6: 17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing Word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.

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 - 11).

4) Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
The times when people need you to give them comfort and counsel do not always coincide with the times you have your Bible handy. Not only that, the very Word of God spoken spontaneously from your heart has unusual power. Proverbs 25: 11 says, "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver."

5) Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
Opportunities to share the Gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. W should 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
The way we commune with (fellowship with) God is by meditating on His attributes and expressing to Him our thanks and admiration and love, and seeking His help to live a life that reflects the value of these attributes. Therefore, storing texts in our minds about God helps us relate to Him as He really is.

For full text please go to http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/TasteAndSee/ByDate/2006/1799_Why_Memorize_Scripture/

Experienced God @
10:44 AM
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