Recitation from Memory of the Book of James

One of the significant disciplines I have embraced, by God’s grace, is memorizing Scripture. Last year, I was deeply challenged when I saw John Piper recite the entire book of Philippians. I thought to myself, “If he can do this even in his old age, why can’t I cultivate this discipline while I am still young?”

So, for the first time in my life, I have truly seen the importance of Scripture memorization and have committed myself to it. I am amazed at how small steps—like memorizing one verse a day or a few verses each week—can make a profound difference over time. Within a year, I was able to memorize a couple of chapters from the Bible without forgetting them. Memorizing without forgetting is an art that can be learned.

One of my greatest weaknesses is forgetfulness. Yet I have come to see that memorizing Scripture is not an impossible task, even for slow learners like me. It is not a talent or a special gift—it is a discipline. Anyone with a sound mind can cultivate it with consistency and grace. Over time, I have learned to affirm with the Psalmist, “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11, ESV).

The following video is a recitation from memory of the entire book of James (NIV). I hope this will encourage and inspire you to take up the discipline of memorizing the Scriptures.

 

Note: It is no great thing merely to memorize Scripture. Memorization must be joined with a heart to obey God’s Word. We are to treasure His Word within us so that we may continually measure our lives by it.

"I am convinced that one of the greatest things we can do is to memorize Scripture."

— Billy Graham

"This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization."

— Dallas Willard

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