Hiding His Word in Our Hearts
Day 160 of Photo Inspirations — Hiding His Word in Our Hearts
Memorization of scriptures has been pivotal in my having a joy-filled life, unwavering faith (most of the time), perseverance in tough times and learning to jump high hurdles (obstacles). I sincerely believe that God’s Word represents life and power, and is the greatest treasure we have in living an overcoming life.
In Kids Church, we had “Sword” Drills — that’s when the leader would call out a book of the Bible, chapter and verse, and then we’d hustle to be the first one to find it in our Bible, stand up and read it. That fun game taught us how to find scriptures, and it taught us the words of the scriptures. Then we’d memorize scriptures during Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. I learned so many scriptures. Why were my parents and teachers so convinced that we should commit ourselves to scripture memory? Because they knew it was the greatest key to our future success. Early on, those scriptures were simply “words”, but facing responsibilities and the normal challenges of “living life”, those “words” became more valuable than the greatest treasure I could ever have.
In Proverbs 7:2, we read “Guard My words as your most precious possession. Write them down and also keep them deep within your heart.” One of the most powerful ways that we can transform our lives, resist temptation, make wise decisions, and counterattack the enemy when he comes knocking on our door with his dumb fear tactics — is knowing God’s Word. Psalm 119:105 says “Your word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path.”
The more we know what God says, the more we are going to know how God thinks, because the will of God is found in the Word of God. It strengthens us when we’re weary. It comforts us when we’re sad. It gives us hope during times of crisis.
A couple of days ago, I was called back to the medical center for an ultrasound as they found abnormalities on a “routine” test they’d done a couple of days before. Before the test, during the test, and waiting for the results of the test, I recalled so many scriptures: “Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on me.” “By the stripes of Jesus, I am healed.” “Peace, be still.” “Peace be with you.” “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD my God is with me, wherever I go,”
By the way, the report came back — “nothing to be concerned about”. I praised and thanked God. But what if the report had come back the other way? Then I expect the same would hold true. I would trust and believe and meditate on God’s Word that would give me comfort, hope, healing, and strength. I encourage you today to take this prescription: “Read, meditate and memorize God’s Word for it will be sweet music to your heart. light for your pathway, and healing to your soul in your best of times and in the lowest of times.