I have realized that MRI machines are just as mind-altering as a brainwashing session while being kidnapped. Even with earplugs and headsets, every tink, knock, siren, vibration, and screech at an unbearable noise level is sure to affect someone’s thoughts.
After five minutes of the blaring sounds, I was tempted to squeeze the panic bulb and ask for a break. But I knew that would only prolong the procedure. To keep my wits about me, I recalled the verses I had set to memorize for that week.
Even though remembering the sections word for word was challenging, I managed to thread together enough phrases to make sense of it. To my surprise, I was able to block out the noise and find a sense of peace.
Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusts in thee.” (KJV)
A mind that is at peace is focused on God, who is trustworthy. A Hebrew version translates the phrase perfect peace as steadfast, leaning, or resting in reliance on God. Steadfastness is a discipline of the mind. It demonstrates an uncommon commitment that remains constant.
In her book, His Word in My Heart: Memorizing Scripture for a Closer Walk with God, Janet Pope says, “(Societal) meditation involves emptying your mind for the purpose of relaxation, detoxifying your body and soul, and relieving stress. In contrast, the biblical concept of meditation is to fill your mind with God’s thoughts and character and purposes. I can’t think of any greater stress relief than to commune with God.” (emphasis mine)
With this success behind me, I found another opportunity to apply the same procedure to alleviate a disappointing situation I could not change. Once again, I experienced unexpected peace when I flipped my focus to words that inspire spiritual growth, wisdom, and life lessons.
Granted, some will argue that you can distract your mind with music, movies, novels, etc., and that is true, but those things do not foster trust in the Author of the Bible. Memorizing scripture is more than meditation; it is an act of filling the well with God’s promises to draw from later.
Memorized verses are likewise potent when facing moments of temptation. Psalm 119:11 says, “Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.” (LSB) Jesus is the prime example of drawing on Scripture in times of need. While in the wilderness fasting for forty days, Satan tempted him three times. Yet, each time, Jesus did not take the bait but answered with verses that Satan could not refute.
Janet Pope continues in her book, “Could Satan cause Jesus to stumble, and thus thwart God’s plan to save humanity through Jesus’ sinless sacrifice? Certainly not! But Jesus would have to give an answer. What is His weapon of choice? Scripture! He understood that, regardless of what earthly tool or provision a person possessed, it did not hold a candle to the Word of God.”
Although those are only two examples of the value of Bible memorization, let me tell you that in a world that holds no absolutes, waning morality, and a deep sense of self-love, there is nothing more needed than the internalization of God’s Word.
Finally, for all those who roll their eyes and say, “I don’t have time for that,” or “I can’t remember anything.” Let me tell you that I prayed about memorizing the book of Jude (which is no easy task), and God heard me. I found time to recite verses while driving, walking the dog, and even showering. God gave me wisdom and helped me retain complex phrases and passages because He values our desire to grow closer to Him when we seek Him with all our heart and mind.
A Tree Firmly Planted 