June 22, 2017

“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:11

Throughout St. Luke’s current sermon series, “Famous Sayings of the Bible (That Aren’t Actually There)”, we’ll hear about how important it is to read and study the Bible in order to be able to separate false statements from actual biblical truths. In addition to reading God’s Word, I have also found memorizing scripture verses to be very helpful to my faith journey.

As a child, I never fully understood why my Sunday school teacher would make us memorize Bible verses each week. I already had so many things that I was required to commit to memory: multiplication facts, states and capitals, bones of the body– the list went on and on! However, as my memory of the things I learned in school has faded (please, no one ask me the capital of South Dakota), so many of the scripture verses that I memorized early on in my life have stayed with me.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4

“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Being able to remember and reflect on these Bible verses has brought me strength in times of adversity, comfort in times of sorrow and peace in times of anxiousness. The Bible is truly such a wonderful gift from God, a gift that is meant to be treasured, revered, studied and shared.

Morgan Jones, Director of Small Group Ministry