Jessica Forgeng had a great idea as we began this year-long study of Romans: memorize a large passage of Romans as a way to internalize truth, meditate on, and grow in our hearing of God’s word. Dallas Willard, former professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote:
“Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. 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.” (“Spiritual Formation in Christ for the Whole Life and Whole Person” in Vocatio, Vol. 12, no. 2, Spring, 2001, p. 7).
WIth that in mind, Jessica Forgeng and Evie Hutton decided on memorizing Romans 8 this year. This passage is so full of encouragement, power, and truth. It’s 39 verses so, those who want to participate could memorize one verse a week and finish easily! They recommend:
Memorizing one verse at a time. Starting with verse 1: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Using an app like “Verses.”
Calling a friend each week and reciting what you’ve memorized and doing it with others.
Evie will post the verse each week on Facebook as an encouragement as well.