God's Word In Our Hearts

Ann Stewart is from South Australia. Her friend once encouraged her to memorize Bible verses - one beginning with each letter of the alphabet. Ann took up the challenge and carefully chose 26 passages of scripture. These memorized verses have grown to be an essential part of her faith journey.

Ann has found that God's word is powerful. It is the truth. As Proverbs 4:22 says, it brings life and healing. When Ann fills her heart and mind with scripture, it brings her peace and encourages her to worship. If she lies awake at night and can't get back to sleep. she recites these memorized verses to focus her thoughts. If Ann is anxious during a medical procedure, she thinks through these verses to calm herself. Ann has discovered that worship and worry cannot inhabit her at the same time.

Following Jesus' example, we can use scripture to speak truth against temptation, include it in our prayers, or say it as a blessing over the lives of those we love. This is all so much easier when we have God's word memorized, living in our hearts. It is a spiritual discipline that Ann has found to be very helpful and encouraging.

Prayer: Loving Father, thank you for the treasures and truth we find in your life-giving word. Grant us the strength and fortitude to meditate on your scripture, study it, and memorize it, in Jesus' name. Amen.