Child:    “Why do I have to memorize this Bible passage?”
Parent:    “Because it is important.”
Child:    “Why?”
Parent:    “Because it is God’s Word.”
Child:    “But why memorize it?”
Parent:    “Because I said so!”

Have you participated in a conversation like that?  How would you respond to the child’s questions?  Christians know that memorizing the Bible is a good thing.  Some would even say that it is very important.   But why?  Here are some brief reasons to commit God’s Word to memory.

1. Psalm 119:105:  “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”  Life can get very dark at times.  A promotion at work that we know we deserve doesn’t happen.  Marriages can fail.  Our children don’t turn out the way we had hoped.  Sickness is constantly plaguing us and death is just around the corner.  Where are we supposed to go for help?  Who is able to guide us through this mess?  God can.  His Word is a light that brings hope in the darkest moments of our lives.  Will you have a Bible when you need this light most?
2. Deuteronomy 32:47:  “They are not just idle words for you– they are your life.”  God’s words are not idle.  They are not just ink on a page. God’s Word is living and active.  It’s powerful.  It gives life to the soul.  In fact, the Bible often refers to God’s Word as food for the soul.  It is terrible to go to work or school without our lunch.  It is far worse to leave home without God’s Word.  If you put it in your head, your soul can snack all day.
3. 1 Peter 3:15:  “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”  One of the greatest reasons for us to commit God’s Word to memory is so that we can share it with others.  The Bible assures us that all of our sins are paid for and forgiven.  Jesus died so that we can live with him in heaven.  Because of Jesus, God has promised that all things work for our good.  When we see our loved ones suffering, despairing, and burdened with guilt, God’s Word can be of great comfort to them.  In fact, the same hope that we receive from it we can give to others.

Will you always have a Bible handy?  Will you always be able to read God’s Word?  No.  However, you don’t go many places without your head.  Memorizing Scripture is important.  It’s important because we constantly need God’s guidance, comfort, and peace.  Don’t leave home without it.