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I like to bake and cook, but I have the hardest time memorizing recipes. I always have to have my recipes out on the counter, especially when baking, so I can refer to them repeatedly and get everything right.
It's like reading the back of the box for the temperature and time, throwing the box away, and then having to retrieve it from the trash three more times to check again.
Knowing that I have a hard time memorizing, I thought about the Bible and how I would never be able to memorize scripture. I struggled with that for a long time. But once I realized that I don't have to memorize scripture to make an exact reference, I just need to know the Word and apply it, it became easier and I became more confident in knowing the Word.
James 1:23-25 says, "For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."
I have found it is more important for me to apply the Word than to memorize it. This way, I remember better what the Word of God says.
When watching a cooking or baking show, I am amazed by the fact that these chefs have hundreds of recipes memorized.
Just imagine how the world would be if we memorized God's word like we do song lyrics or recipes. We would be so connected with God and His Word.
Psalm 119:11 says, "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
When baking, I follow recipes, but when cooking, I just go with what I know and how good the flavors are. I wouldn't say I'm more comfortable with one or the other, though. They are just different methods when it comes to creating. Baking is precise, but cooking is more flexible.
We all have different methods of learning the Bible and in some methods you can read the Bible and get the gist of things, but to fully know what Jesus teaches, we need to apply it with intention and precision.
Deuteronomy 5:32-33 says, "So Moses told the people, 'You must be careful to obey all the commands of the Lord your God, following his instructions in every detail. Stay on the path that the Lord your God has commanded you to follow. Then you will live long and prosperous lives in the land you are about to enter and occupy.'"
The best way to know God's word is to read it and practice it over and over. When you read, ask God to open your heart and mind to be able to understand what you are reading and what God has for you.
Know God's word, carry it in your heart, and apply it to your daily tasks.