Important Things to Remember
Have you ever walked into a room for something but once there forgotten the mission? What about when you have something to tell someone but it won’t come to the front of your memory? Names. I often forget names. Sometimes I create a grocery list and forget to bring it to the store.
Forgetfulness can be attributed to stress, depression, lack of sleep, certain medications, or even thyroid problems. Did you know that dehydration and an unhealthy diet can contribute to forgetfulness? (What we eat and drink really does matter.) Sometimes multi-tasking or being unorganized can make us forget. For the most part, it’s normal to forget things once in a while. (Whew!)
There are so many important things to remember in life. For me, writing something helps me to remember better. I cannot remember all of the passwords so I have a written ‘cheat sheet’. When I want the ingredients needed for certain recipe, I make a list. If I want to remember the list, I put it directly in my purse. (Apparently little systems are also helpful for remembering!)
One thing I want to be able to readily recall is Scripture.
When it comes to our (and our children’s) spiritual formation, one of the best practices is Scripture memorization. Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote,
“Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization.”
Memorizing scripture helps adults and kids shape their character, increase their faith, and learn God’s Truth. Remembering what God says can bring us comfort, help us make wise decisions, and nurture us. I have hidden your Word in my heart so that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
Helping children memorize scripture can be done in many ways.
Singing verses, acting out verses, putting hand motions with the words, writing them. Write a verse on a sticky-note and put it in their lunch or stick it on the mirror. For older kids, text them a verse-of-the-week (daily). Talk with your children about the importance of ‘hiding God’s Word in their heart.
The key here is CONSISTENCY.
I know many adults who want to be more active, lose weight, and increase muscle. It’s a nice goal but it won’t happen if they participate in only one exercise class per week. Similarly, strengthening our spiritual muscles requires consistency and intentionality. Consistent exposure to God’s Word is essential.
The teachers at CCC love presenting God’s Word in our spiritual formation workshops with various hand-on experiences that enhance their learning. However, that one-hour per week isn’t going to be enough; it’s only a supplement to the spiritual teaching that you provide at home.
If you do not already have the spiritual practice of Scripture memorization, January is a great time to implement it. If you need any resources to help you, please connect with Pastor Dan. It’s too important a practice to procrastinate.
They have made God’s law their own, so they will never slip from his path.
PSALM 37:31
Wishing you a happy, healthy, Scripture-rich 2023!
Peggy Kelly
Family Ministry Director
Community Congregational Church