Scripture Memorization

One of my goals for this year is to memorize one Scripture passage (not necessarily just one verse) a week.  So far, so good.  Today, via Ann Voskamp, I found this great (and free) memory aide.  I tried it out and it is awesome!  Go take a look.  Try it out with John 3:16.  I've got a widget over to the right from there with my current Scripture.

Why memorize Scripture? 

Chuck Swindoll wrote, "I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified." (Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).

Dallas Willard says in a piece entitled Personal Soul Care, "This practice of memorizing the Scriptures is more important than a daily quiet time, for as we fill our minds with these great passages and have them available for our meditation, 'quiet time' takes over the entirety of our lives."

But the best reasons of all are found in the Scriptures themselves.  Here are only two of that multitude of reasons:

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."  Psalm 119:11

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."  Psalm 119:105