Well, the Lord has been doing a work in me of Scripture memorization (something I have almost never done in my Christian life until 6 months ago), and so, there have been multiple times where when I feel this way I just decide to start reciting my memorized passages (in my head or out loud), even though it feels like empty and dead words (at first!) and I'm not motivated to do it.
But just about every time I can recall (like tonight!), the Lord takes me from a place of empty joylessness to genuine, heartfelt joy and peace in Him!
I have been amazed at what the power of the Word can do! Scripture memorization and recitation was not even a part of my life until this year, and it appears to me to be such a wellspring of blessedness that I continue to find new, hidden treasures in as I dig deeper and continue further in this discipline.
So, brothers and sisters, are you feeling restless and empty? Then take up the sword of the Spirit and fight sins like joyless with the memorized Word of God!
Here are a few practical things I would recommend:
- Have a set time everyday (even just 3 minutes like I do before I clock in at work) where you recite your current passage, as well as keep up with old ones.
- Have a pocket New Testament, Psalms & Proverbs that you carry with you at all times. (This will help tremendously!)
- Let your sword grow large with long passages (like whole Psalms or chapters), and you will eventually begin to see things in the Scriptures that you never even noticed before.
May the Lord bless you in this life-changing endeavor!
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.—Ephesians 6:17
I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.—Psalm 119:11
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.—Hebrews 4:12
