The Importance of Bible Memorization

You know, I never used to understand the purpose of memorizing Bible verses. I pretty much just went along with it for whatever "reward system" was in place (think stickers, goodies, sometimes good grades, etc.) I didn't really see how it could be used in a practical sense, however, and would shortly forget said verses after reciting them obediently. Then as I got older, sadly, I would find myself opting out of the "rewards" in exchange for doing other things with my time. It wasn't until after I finished high school, really, that I got back into trying to memorize. I still didn't see how it was applicable in my life, but I was trying my best to grow and mature in my faith and it seemed like an important aspect of my Christianity. In other words, it felt like something I should do, much like one should make your bed or do the dishes. Over the past few years, however, and even more recently these past few months, I have had to face several challenging situations and obstacles in my life, both mentally and physically, be they circumstantial or else self-derived. Don't get me wrong; I consider myself very fortunate and blessed by the family, friends, people, and life in general that God has given me, but that doesn't mean I haven't faced my fair share of troubles. And now I can finally see why Bible memorization is so important.
Everyone has things they like, things they go to for comfort, amusement, you name it. Some call them "guilty pleasures". I personally enjoy children's books and even certain television programs (I also find Bridal shows and magazines addictive). Others may prefer harlequin romance novels, a specific perfume, or stuffed animals. These are all well and fine, and I'd even go so far as to call them healthy, assuming they don't hurt you or others. But what happens when you don't have access to these things? What happens when we are stripped of our vices? In essence, what happens when we feel totally alone? Well, no matter where you are, be it a crowded room or the middle of nowhere, alone, and scared, you always have God, and your mind. What you fill your mind with is oh so important, because it can dictate the thoughts that arise when you are in crisis. When a loved one dies, when you're facing health problems of your own, or hurting in any way, mind, body, or soul, you can know that there is someone out there who never leaves you. It's one thing to be told by others that "God is with you", "It'll be okay", "You'll find strength". It's a whole different story when you KNOW this to be true. Think about it. You can be given the idea that if you kick your legs in water, you won't drown. It's different to know it. To have the knowledge in you. To have read and recall what you've learned in the past. We do it all the time. I don't have to read the directions every time I make myself a cup of tea. I know how to do it, because I've learned how. I've memorized the steps. The same is true for Bible reading! I KNOW things are going to be okay, because the Bible tells me so. I mean, there's a reason "Jesus loves me" is taught to so many kids. Jesus loves me. This I KNOW. How do we know? Because we can remember what we've read and memorized.
You may be wondering what spurred on this train of thoughts. Last night, and the past few days, have been really hard, and last night it all came to a head I guess. You see, I had been waiting for a bed to open up on the psych ward and was surprised that one suddenly became available earlier than anticipated last night. I packed up my things, a wide range of emotions stirring up inside me. Excitement, fear, anticipation, apprehension, but mostly ANXIETY ANXIETY ANXIETY! By the time my mum had come and we had moved my things into my new room, I was bawling like a baby, whimpering that I wanted to go home. It was bad. All the unfortunate medical and emotional turmoil that had occurred yesterday and the days leading up it just came rushing forth, and the tears flowed (along with my nose--not an easy thing when you're on a tube feed, let me tell you!) My mum went to get me some additional surprise and I lay in my bed, sobbing and sending out a mass text, begging people to pray, since I felt too weak to utter more than "Jesus". Before I knew it, my mind started humming with familiar praise songs, and Bible verses that had been ingrained in me, and I also had others bookmarked in my Bible, certain passages that I had found particularly comforting and soothing. Slowly but surely, my tears of sadness, bitterness, and anxiety turned to tears, and smiles, of joy! Can you believe it? That's not just incredible. That's GOD! I'm sorry if this post comes across as your stereotypical "Christian brainwashing". But hey, take it as you will. I was reassured that I was not alone, that I had God on my side, and that everything really would be okay. I didn't need to worry about anything. I could rest assured knowing that He has it all under His control.
So, there you have it. One of the many good reasons to memorize Bible passages. To those of you who know and pray for me, thank you. To those of you I don't know but still pray for me, thank you. And to those of you reading this random blog by a random girl, thanks for stopping by. I hope I've encouraged you in some way, or inspired you. I challenge you to get active in reading your Bible, and specifically putting verses up around your house to help you remember and soon know by heart.
Thanks for listening,