I’ve memorized scripture over the years. I can repeat the words from most of them at will.
But when do we own scripture? When do we claim Scripture as ours? When does our memory work bear fruit? I’ve memorized verses, passages, even whole Psalms.
I’ve meditated on scriptures. Studied passages I’ve memorized. Done word studies. Gone to sleep thinking about God’s Word. Prayed Scripture over circumstances and people.But, when I quote Scripture, I wonder if I’m just remembering words on a page, or if I own the words I’m saying.
I know WHY, I’m saying them. God’s word says, “I have hidden Thy word in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:11; and “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105. I know God’s Word never returns void.
Maybe there’s a line between memorizing words and owning Scripture. My dilemma is I don’t always know when I cross the line from knowing to owning. A dear friend in our small group told me we own it when we need it and the Holy Spirit brings it to our memory to use or to share.
For now I’m going to claim that.
For His Glory 
I wouldn’t say we “Own” scripture. I think we can have an understanding of it, and we may recall it. It is God’s word, and even an understanding of it does not mean it is the only understanding nor does it mean it is a complete understanding. It is easy to confuse knowledge with wisdom. Knowing scripture and having wisdom about it are not that same thing.
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Thank you for your perspective, Mark. And thanks for stopping by. God bless.
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I had a stroke that wiped much of my memories of memorized scriptures and bible studies – and yet, when ever I have an opportunity to be a witness for God – it seems particular scripture verses “pop” into my head! God knows where it is in my heart – even if I don’t! 🙂 Good read!
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What an awesome testimony to the faithfulness of God. You are amazing. Thank you so much for sharing. God bless.
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I enjoyed that. And I agree. We own scripture when we apply it to our lives. We believe the love letter written to us and we have to share it.
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Thank you, Anne. God bless.
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Interesting question, Steven! When we truly “own” what the Bible says, we’ll be ready to write about it too. To encourage that thinking, I’ll highlight your post on the Christian Poets & Writers blog – http://www.christianpoetsandwriters.com. God bless.
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Mary, thank you so much. I hope it will be encouraging to lots of readers and encourage folks to think about Scripture and what it means. Thank you so much for sharing the post. God bless.
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