A Blessing Forgetting?
I’m a list maker. But it’s not because I am an efficient, super-organized, home administrator. It’s because I’d otherwise forget. The promised favors, various repair needs, volunteer obligations, and important recipe ingredients, would be victims of neglect if not for my writing down and posting notes. This is also the reason I am fanatical about putting items back after their use—so I’ll be able to find them!
Were you taught to memorize Scripture passages from childhood on, or did you take on this valuable habit as an adult? The blessings of filling our heart with His promises are abundant, especially as we learn to apply the Word to our lives. But what if those Bible memories fade or disappear? Like many people, my forgetfulness has increased with age. Since, “all things work together for the good of those who love God” (Romans 8:28) can this be counted as good?
Thanks to the Holy Spirit’s nudging, my forgetfulness has motivated these helpful actions:
1. In order to pay more attention to sermons and in Bible classes, I open and personalize my Bible, underlining (with colors I enjoy) and take notes.
Within your temple, O God, we meditate on your unfailing love. Psalm 48:9
2. Instead of my old habit of skimming over familiar verses, I slow down, think, read some study Bible notes and review the context.
You study the Scriptures diligently... These are the very Scriptures that testify about me. (Jesus) John 5:39
3. I realize the necessity of reviewing promises and proof passages before they may be needed. If I wait for a crisis, or an unbeliever’s questions, my unprepared mind will probably go blank.
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. I Peter 3:15
Even as our faculties fade with time, we know our eternal heavenly Father never forgets each member of his family, redeemed by Christ. Thank you Lord, for this secure comfort.
Remember, O LORD, your compassion and your mercy, for they are from eternity. Psalm 25:6
