God's Breath

The apostle Paul taught his protege, Timothy, "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Committing scripture to memory does not prove that you are a good Christian. And not doing so is not a sign that you are a bad Christian. For me, this was a natural progression of deepening faith. Memorizing scripture was another way to abide with him. Throughout the Bible, we are encouraged to meditate on God's Word. The Psalmist wrote, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11). Memorizing scripture is another way we can hide his words in our hearts.

After the death of Moses, Joshua became the leader of the nation of Israel, and God fortified him with these words: "Keep this book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it" (Joshua 1:8). If it was important for the leader of God's people to do this, it is important for us too!