The end of the year is quickly approaching, as is the end of my Scripture memorization goal. I decided to memorize the book of Jude (see http://thebookoflifeblog.blogspot.com/2015/10/i-am-memorizing-book-of-bible.html), and I will have accomplished this by Christmas.
I have had to be diligent.
I have studied the book so that I could maximize the value of memorizing the
words. I have incorporated it into my prayers, as I recognize its relevance the
world around me and my own life.
And I have practiced
saying it aloud, which is crucial.
It did not take me long
into my memorization of this longer passage before I realized how critical quoting
it aloud was. You see, there is a difference between reciting Scripture in your
head and saying it aloud. There are extra connections that need to happen in
the brain to be able to get those words out of your mind and through your vocal
cords to the benefit of those around you.
While I could fly through
the verses during my morning jogs, I stumbled and stuttered a bit as I sought
to relay the powerful verses to others in conversation.
Fortunately, I have other
people in my life who value Scripture (as well as memorizing it), so I began
asking people if I could quote it to them. "May I practice?" I'd ask.
Or sometimes people who knew I was memorizing it asked if I would recite it to
them.
This all helped me.
Specifically, saying it to
others accomplished several things:
1) My mouth became used to
the words flowing off my tongue.
2) I was held accountable
to my timeline in memorizing.
3) I was able to share the
powerful message to those around me.
Just this morning, a dear
friend asked me how my memorization project was going and wanted me to quote as
much of Jude as I could. As I attempted to share the first 22 verses with
power, I saw her face glow, a nod here and there, and support communicated
through her smile. When I was done, it was clear she had received the message.
"Powerful," she said. "Amen," I responded. We agreed it was
relevant to our culture today.
So I encourage you to
practice saying memorized Scripture aloud, whether you're memorizing one verse
or a book of the Bible. This is your opportunity to minister to others, as well
as ingrain these holy words of God into your mind and mouth.
"Let the word of
Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom,
singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts
to God" (Colossians 3:16).
