How’s that for a title?
Now: memorizing bible verses can be a mixed blessing. We don’t want to take verses out of their context. It’s important to read the bible, not just its verses.
However, in times of crisis and confusion — or simply for personal growth — there is nothing quite like the ability to have the words of Scripture spring to mind. Romans 12:1-2 speak of the “renewing of your mind” and nothing renews better than having that mind shaped by the words of Scripture.
So without further adieu (and not including John 3:16 because, well, it’s John 3:16 and so many know it already), here are my Top Five Bible Verses I’d Memorize If I Was Just Starting To Memorize Bible Verses:
Proverbs 3:5-6:
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 acknowledge him in all your ways,
and he will make your paths straight.
Spoiler alert: a) these ARE the first verses I ever memorized and I’m working on them now for a November series called “The Trust Factor.” What a tremendous plan for life they contain.
John 1:1:
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.
Jesus is not godly. He is God. John begins his masterpiece by taking us back before creation and who do we find? Jesus himself. Praise the Lord.
Habakkuk 2:14:
For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord
as the waters cover the sea.
This is a new one on my list, coming on the heels of the sermon series “The Fine Art Of Bellyaching.” I love the poetic description of the hope our life of faith contains.
Mark 9:24
I believe, Lord, help my unbelief!
This comes from a man who begs Jesus to heal his child. I have always identified with the simultaneity of it: doubt and faith existing at the same time. Who hasn’t felt that?
Romans 12:1-2
1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
I referenced it earlier. Paul’s words here not only hint at a pivot in the book, but a shift in our lives. It’s a way to live out Paul’s reminder to the Corinthians that the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God.
Those are my five. How would YOU begin?