Memorizing large passages of scripture can be a big task, and many people can lose their motivation. But we need to remember that the National Bible Bee Competition is more than just a competition; we are hiding God’s word in us. Psalm 119:11 says: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Here are five reasons to stay motivated when memorizing a large passage.
- We aren’t just memorizing any piece of writing, we are memorizing God’s word. God’s word is quick and powerful; Hebrews 4:12 says “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
- We are also told to study God’s word, and when we memorize, we are spending many hours in His word. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
- Along the same lines as studying, we should memorize and be ready to give a reason for our hope. 1 Peter 3:15 says, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:”
- It is hard not to meditate on God’s word when you are reading and reciting for hours. Psalm 1:1-2 says, “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”
- Practically speaking, we can break down the passage to see our progress. Set smaller goals within the main goal, and don’t be discouraged if it seems to be going slower than you would like.
When memorizing a large passage of scripture for the National Bible Bee, we should never forget that we are memorizing for more than just a competition; we are memorizing God’s word and learning more about who He is. While memorizing, we can study and meditate, and we will be more equipped when we go and share the gospel with others.
Written by NBB Alumna: Abigail Charleston
