I remember when I was a kid, I'd get surly in math class. With the unfounded arrogance and complete confidence only a child (who knows absolutely nothing about the world) can project, I'd tell my teacher that it was stupid we had to learn how to do math by hand – after all, in the future, everyone would always have a calculator.
Of course, that went over about as well as you would expect.
I couldn't appreciate it at the time, but there is value in learning things the hard way. In understanding the process behind a result, not just the answer. In knowing how to arrive at a conclusion on your own and apply that thought process to other similar areas.
It's how I feel about memorizing the Bible in an era of iPhone scripture apps and instantly available verses. Somehow, I've become the crusty old teacher advocating for a harder, more complicated road to knowledge. I'm sure my grade four math teacher would die laughing.
Why memorization matters
Just like learning how to long divide by hand, memorization is not actually about the route, mechanical process of repeating back words. Instead, it's about internalization. It's not just about knowing which words go in front and behind each other, it's knowing why they do.
It's about adding context to scripture, understanding the circumstances surrounding a verse. Anyone can pull out their phone and tap in a search to pull up "inspiring quotes from Jesus” but if you are able to quote those versus from memory, you'll have a much greater appreciation for what they truly mean.
You'll know that when Jesus said "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners” it wasn't just a blanket comment, it was a response to some snide Pharisees trying to play the holier-than-thou card on him. He wasn't just saying he came to save sinners, he was providing an example with how to deal with superficial criticism and those who try to raise themselves up by knocking people down. That's something you won't get just pulling the verse out by itself.
Memorization also promotes a joy in the scripture. Just like anything else, when you truly have your own command over the material, it becomes that much more exciting to think over and engage with. It's the difference between actually learning to play an instrument and those plastic guitar video games. Sure, it might be fun to plink in time to the coloured lights and imitate a virtuoso. But, it's so much more fun to sit down and strum out your own tune at will (even if it might not be as flashy).
Make it part of your day
I know, memorization can seem daunting. The Bible is a big book, filled with complicated language and odd patterns. But, we're not talking about being able to recite the entire book forwards and back. The key is to break it down in more manageable chunks. To learn it one line, one verse, one chapter at a time.
Pick a book of the Bible that inspires you and read it. That's the first step, just reading. Read with intention, pay attention to what is being said instead of skimming over it or letting your focus drift. Re-read the same part again and again and let it absorb itself into your brain.
Read it out loud to yourself. Sound the words with your mouth and get a feel for how they flow. Hearing them in a natural cadence will help you remember them (this is why you can quote lines from a TV show you saw half a decade ago). If it helps, write them out occasionally. The act of writing has a proven neurochemical link to memorization.
Don't feel like you have to do it all, don't hold yourself accountable to any kind of deadline. Just make memorization a part of your daily walk with the Lord, like your prayers or any other kind of devotion.
Being able to pull verses up on an app is no substitute for making them part of yourself. When you apply memorization to the Bible, you're giving a part of yourself over to scripture, and that is more important than anything else.
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