I still remember the phone number from the house I lived in when I was in second grade. I’ve always had a certain capacity for remembering numbers. I guess that’s why I ended up in the finance field. In junior high and high school, I had everyone’s phone numbers memorized. I was almost as helpful as a phone book. But ask me how many phone numbers I have memorized today? Roughly three. My cell phone, my work phone, and my mom’s phone (everyone needs their mom, after all, no matter how old you are)–not my closest friends, not my small group leader, not my gym buddies, not any of the incredibly important people in my life.
So, what changed between second grade and now that would account for wiping out my internal rolodex? Is it just age? Well, sure, that is contributory. But the biggest difference is technology. My cell phone keeps every number for me, so I dial by name, not number. It’s as if the importance of memorization has just vanished.
Don’t get me wrong, I love technology. I mean, back when I was in school, they pushed the importance of learning long division because “we wouldn’t always have a calculator handy.” Well, look at me now, Mr. Math Teacher, I carry a computer in my pocket!
And on the computer in our pockets, most of us have a Bible app of some sort. That Bible app means we always have God’s Word at our fingertips–we can read Scripture in the waiting room of the doctor’s office or on our breaks at work. I love that!
But with technology, have we lost our desire to memorize? Do we rely on the search function of our Bible app, or do we also have Scripture stored in our hearts, ready for the Holy Spirit to draw from when He sees the need?
Memorization is a good discipline. Kids are going back to school, and routines can be reset again. Will you consider adding Scripture memory to your routine? Memorize with a friend, old or new. It’s a great way to connect with people.
Oh, you just wish that I had some Scripture memory ideas? It just so happens I have some below! And follow @reflecti on Instagram for a weekly reminder of the verses, too.
Love, April
