What to Do When Scripture Memory Becomes Mundane?

Sometimes, I get in a rut when it comes to Scripture memory. I understand its importance, have a goal set, and have an accountability partner to recite to, but I still lack motivation. Amid a busy schedule, Scripture memorization doesn’t always seem as appealing as rest or other activities on my list. In these moments, it can feel like I am frozen in place. Can you relate? If so, I encourage you to glance at how you are memorizing. What techniques are you using? Are you enjoying the outcome of your efforts, or are you also enjoying the process?

The first question in The Westminster Shorter Catechism often comes to mind when I hear the word “enjoyment.” The catechism asks, “What is the chief end of man?” The answer is simple yet life changing: “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.”

We mustn’t leave the word “enjoyable” out of our description of Scripture memorization either. After all, this is God’s written Word that we are memorizing! It’s nearly impossible to learn how to fully enjoy our Creator when separated from His Word.

Another aid in the “rut of Scripture memory” is to identify your why. The strength of the motive behind your memorization determines the level of motivation you will have in it. So, why do we memorize Scripture? Going back to the Shorter Catechism, “to glorify God.” 
Remember this reason when you are striving to memorize on the difficult days. 

To summarize, your daily habit of Bible memory is for God’s glory and your enjoyment of Him.

This week, will you join me in asking yourself: “If I could memorize Scripture in any way, shape, or form, how would I delight to do it?” Then, take those steps! When the memorization of Scripture becomes enjoyable, and when we have a strong reason, it will be easier to prioritize in the thick of a busy schedule. 

Additional tips to consider when your motivation for Scripture memorization is low: 

Pray - Ask the Lord to help in the hour of weakness. 
Push Through - Don’t quit the consistent discipline of Scripture memory, no matter the cost. This is for your good!
Try Something New - Change what you’re doing by implementing a new technique or trying different verses to memorize.