Time for some honesty. About 2 years ago Bryan challenged me to memorize the book of Philippians with him. And by the grace of God we have not stopped memorizing since then. We don’t do a verse a day, but we do at least several verses a week. Now, we learned very quickly that a HUGE part of memorizing Scripture is reviewing Scripture. Every week we review the passages we have already memorized while continuing to add the new ones. That means every week we’re spending a little more time thinking and speaking Scripture.
While washing dishes, folding laundry, driving, pushing the kids on the swing, getting ready for the day… wherever we can find the time we use it. We’ve been doing this for 2 years and can I tell you honestly, I feel like I’m just now beginning to see small changes in me, my thinking, my heart. 2 years of meditating on Scripture. 2 years of learning Scripture. 2 years of trying to understand the same passages of Scripture. 2 years of speaking Scripture out loud. 2 years on an almost daily basis and it finally feels like it’s beginning to sink in.
I’m not saying this to brag (or show what a slower learner I can be ;)) but to encourage you. Persevere, hang on, keep going. God really does work in His time not ours. I can’t tell you how many times these past 2 years I wondered when I’d begin reaping some of the fruit of this effort. When am I going to be changed by this God? When is my relationship with You going to be affected by this? When are things going to change???? And finally, praise God it is happening.
Now, the changes aren’t big, they’re actually quite small. But I can tell they’re happening. A bit slower with my temper and a bit quicker with my apologies. A bit more careful with my words, a bit more patient with my children. A bit less impatient with my children (and husband :)) A bit more loving towards those I don’t always feel like loving. A bit less loving of myself. A bit more disciplined in my thoughts and time. A bit more like Jesus.
2 years – well worth it.
I think that is so cool. Can't believe its been two years! I'd like to think I could do that, but knowing me, I would never just take the step to start. Great job, Er!
Lori
Thanks Lori 🙂 Trust me if I can do it you can do it!!! But I totally understand the first step issue. Why do you think Bryan asked me instead of vice versa 🙂 I wonder if Jared would be up for a little memory action 😉
Good blog Er bear! Very encouraging!
Yeah…not everyone can hang with a verse day. 🙂 The review is SO KEY! After I got 1 Peter I went to MI and didn't review. I struggle alot with 1 Peter now and can't even do chapter 5 anymore. Lesson I learned – if I am going to spend the time learning it I need to spend the time memorizing it!