When you think of a battle, you think of tanks, fighter jets, body armor, weapons and tactical gear. You think of interpersonal communication, strategic planning, and a solid and cohesive team to carry out the military strikes. In short, to win a battle, you know that it takes careful consideration, tools, focused intent, and a dedicated team.
Did you also know that you need to bring the same battle strategies into your life? As we discussed before, a battle has been brewing since the beginning of time and your immortal soul is on the line. It’s the grand prize and the most precious resource you have (far more precious than oil or gold). In order to win and keep it, you need a powerful arsenal and a solid group of people on your side.
Luckily for you, you have both. The word of God, the Holy Spirit, your fellowship with the people in your local church, and your long-term relationship with Christ, all equip you to handle this ongoing conflict for your soul and salvation.
One of your greatest weapons in this battle is God’s word, “the sword of the spirit,” and one of the best ways to sharpen this blade is by memorizing it and always keeping it close at hand. That way you can unsheathe it whenever you are faced with temptation or doubt.
Psalm 119:11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
The easiest way to memorize scripture is to start with the smaller verses that are well known by most people, which include John 3:16, Romans 1:16, John 1:12.
The Holy Spirit will then bring these verses to mind in times that are truly anxious and troubling.
John 14:26 “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
The great benefit to memorizing scripture is that you can draw upon verses to alter your attitude or disposition. Many testimonies have been shared about people who have found themselves in trying times when they did not have a physical Bible to reference. The people who had memorized scripture verses remained steady and strong, while others who did not have this powerful tool struggled to stay on solid ground.
Ephesians 6:17 “Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
These memorized verses will give you the comfort and strength necessary to overcome anything life throws at you.
Exercise: Review the verses you’ve underlined in your Bible. Choose one or two favorites, write them down, and begin to memorize them.
