Memorize

Jesus’ final words on the cross were a quote from Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When he was under pressure, when his soul was crushed, what came out of him wasn’t fear or rage or blame — it was Scripture. The rich, poetic imagination of a thousand-year old Messianic prophecy became the lens through which he interpreted his pain and suffering. 

The memorization of Scripture can do the same for us — it can anchor us in God’s presence, purposes, and peace through all our days, including the seasons when our souls (or even our bodies) are in the throes of pain and suffering.

Below you will find steps to help you engage with this practice, as well as resources for further exploration.

Ways to engage with the Scripture Practice

• First and foremost, this practice (and all practices) are meant to be done in community. If you haven't yet, find a small group of people that are commited to walking through this practice together. 

• Download the Scripture Practice Guide. If you can, it is advised to print it out to reduce the distraction of our devices. 

• Gather with your group once a week to watch the Practicing the Way video found below. This will include questions for discussion, as well as a short teaching on that week's practice.

• Step into each practice as much as you are able and feel comfortable to. This invitation is for everyone at all stages of life and faith. 

• Reflect on your experience of the practice using the reflection questions at the bottom of the guide and be prepared to share them the next time you gather with your group.

Grounded Reading Journal 2026

Download Journey's 2026 reading journal here

Recommended Reading

Eat This Book by Eugene Peterson (Chapters 7-9)

BibleProject Videos

How to Read the Bible

Rule of Life Podcast

Scripture Practice Week 4

Sabbath Practice Guide

Download the practice guide here

Week 4 Practice - Memorize a passage of Scripture

• Identify a short passage you want to put to memory

• Every day, work on memorization, and after seven days you should be able to recite the passage from memory

• Here are some tips for memorization

  • Read it out loud

  • Write it out by hand

  • Study it

  • Teach it

  • Recite as much as you can, even before it is all committed to memory

  • Consistancy is key. Memorization takes regular practice.

Week 4 Reflection Questions

Before your next time together with the group, take five minutes to journal out your answers to the following three questions about the practice:

• What prayer or deep desire came up in my heart as I memorized this week?

• Where did calling Scripture to mind bring me peace and direction?

• How did I experience God this week through memorization?