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There is more value than we realize in memorizing scripture. Until the word of God is moved into our memory, it is next to impossible – if not completely impossible – for us to pull what God says to the forefront of our minds when we need it.

I have no doubt that there are times for others, just like there have been for myself, when the floor seems to have dropped beneath them. It feels as if I am unable to stand in the midst of what is happening, and at best I am hanging on with only my fingertips. It’s a horrible place to be. It’s a horrible way to live… and we don’t have to.

Knowing the word of God does not prevent the chaos from happening. It does not prevent life from taking painful twists and turns. That is just a part of life. What knowing the word of God does do is provide peace in the midst of a storm. It provides hope in the most hopeless of situations. It brings light into the darkest of times. It reminds me that I am not alone. I have One beside me, One who sees. Knows. Feels. Understands. Cares.

You may not be living in the midst of one of life’s storms right now. If you aren’t – I am so glad. Be thankful. Rejoice in the calm. But don’t waste this time. Just like our weather, life’s storms rarely give much warning. It is best to be prepared in advance, rather than wait to prepare while in the midst of one. For we know that this life is a continual flux of moving into a storm, dwelling in the midst of one, or moving out of one.

In one particular season of my life, I had the opportunity to spend several hours of every day in the word of God. Truly, that time, while difficult, was a time of preparation for days to come that would be much harder. Of course I didn’t know that at the time, but this season was part of the plan God had been preparing for me.

You have heard it said, perhaps, that the word of God is called the “Living Word.” Why? It is because God continues to speak through it thousands of years later. God loves to communicate with His people. This is why, when we read and then re-read the Bible, different passages stick out to us. I no longer have any idea how many times I have read through the Bible, but it seems I am always reading a verse or passage that carries new meaning for me.

Well, this season was no different. God placed on my heart this passage on my heart and in my mind. It was a constant reminder to keep my eyes, heart, mind, ears, and soul focused on what they truly should be. Not the problem, but the One who has power over it.

Psalm 121 “I look up to the mountains – does my help come from there? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; the One who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, He who watches over Israel neither slumbers or sleeps. The LORD Himself watches over you! The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The LORD keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.”

We are part of the promise of Israel. I can substitute my name right into that verse. Why? I am a child of the King. I gave my life to Christ, and am now His child. “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name.” (John1:12)

Friend, I would encourage you, no matter whether you are currently in a storm, heading into a storm or on your way out of one, spend time in God’s word. Commit it to memory. Get a better understanding of who God is and the power He holds. You will not regret the investment.

Blessings!