Imagine a world without bibles. None, anywhere. How much of the bible could you and your family “reconstruct” and preserve from memory? What about you and your small group of friends and their families? How about your entire church? How many of the bible stories could you piece together and how many of the actual scripture verses? (Now there’s an interesting exercise you can do around the table with your family and friends and a tablet of paper!)

In Ray Bradbury’s futuristic thriller, Fahrenheit 451, all books are forbidden, leading to a secret society of “Book People” who memorize entire books so they can be preserved. We may never encounter such a prohibitive society but still we are called to always be prepared to give the reason for our faith and to hide the words of scripture in our hearts, that our lives will be blessed with God’s guidance.

I remember my first MRI. I am not fond of tight claustrophobic places and had memorized several verses to help me through the experience. What I learned is that I should have memorized more verses! There is something about recalling the truth out loud that drives away uncertainty and fear. Retelling God’s truth keeps us from following vain and false teaching. It also builds our faith.

Some people feel they cannot memorize scripture. I recommend starting with short verses or even parts of verses. Write them on cards and review them at short breaks throughout the day. Stick them to your mirror or your computer. Ask a nonbelieving friend if they will help you practice and hold you accountable to memorizing truth.

A world without bibles would be scary indeed. But can you imagine something even more scary? What about a world of believers without the Word in their hearts? That is REALLY scary!

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” Joshua 1:8