We embarked on a scripture memory program for the Adult Sunday School in November last year.  The plan is for all to recite the twelve verses that cover the important aspects of a Christian life and these include the following topics: “Christ-Centredness,” “Submit to Christ,” Word of God,” “Prayer,” “Fellowship” and “Evangelism.”  Our goal is to ensure that all brothers and sisters are able to recite word for word the twelve verses, its title and the scripture reference.  At first some might think that this is not achievable as they have a lesser memory than before. Some do not understand the purpose and the benefits this exercise brings to their life.  If you want to know certain teachings in a Bible, just flip open the Bible, or just search the internet or smart phone.  Isn’t this more convenient?

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.  These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.  Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”(Deuteronomy 6:4-7).

The above scriptures documented the very commandment God had given to the ancient Israelites.  God’s requirements are very clear: love God wholeheartedly, remember God’s word, think and speak about God’s word and also pass on the teachings of the Word of God to the next generation.  When we are memorizing the verses, we are taking the first step to remember God’s word in our hearts.  With this, the verses that we recite will constantly remind or assist us.  For instance, when we are in distress, we can recall Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” and this verse will provide solace for us so that we can still rely on God and have hope in the midst of difficulty.  Moreover, if we memorized verbatim the scripture and its reference, we can be confident that the words that arise within us did come from the Bible, which is the Word of God and is hence definitely reliable.

Besides benefiting ourselves, the scriptures can be a blessing to others too.  When we are in conversation with our brothers and sisters, instead of quoting some successful person or philosophers, we can share the scriptures we recited.  In this manner, our sharing will be even more beneficial to others. This ensures that what we say is according to God’s mind and not that of man’s.

However, how can we remember so much scripture?  Putting aside for the moment the discussion on memorising technique, the key to reciting scriptures is your attitude.  If you cannot remember it instantly, try it repeatedly till you can do so.  We can copy the scripture on small pieces of card or some places that are easily accessible that will allow us to study them from time to time.  Do not forget to revise the previous scripture verses when you have moved on to a new one.  Progressively, you will be able to memorize many verses. Of course, you can also seek help from the brothers and sisters in the Adult Sunday School.  Revise the scripture memory verses on the Lord’s Day or through the phone.  Take turns to recite to each other the verses.

November will be here soon. Have you memorized the twelve verses, their subject titles and the scripture references?  If so, I encourage you to continue to review them and meditate on them often.  The church will be launching into another series of scriptures.  If you have not memorized the current twelve, please keep on trying.  Establish a goal for yourself: before the end of this year, memorize these twelve verses well.