The Role of Memorizing Scripture in the Fight Against Sin

Memorized passages of Holy Scripture can truly be and will be effective tools in the battle against the temptation to sin. Why? God’s Word contains many warnings and promises that give strength to overcome the enticements of sin and the lies of the devil.

“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” (Ps. 119:9)

How often do we apply this verse only to young people and completely ignore everyone else?! But the principle presented in this Psalm speaks to the usefulness of Scripture in the fight against sin not only for young men—though they certainly need it—but  for all believers.

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.” (Ps. 1:1-2)

The only alternative to a life of sin is to fill the heart and mind with other pleasures, other joys, other goals, plans, and ideas—with Scripture!

In Luke 4:1-3, Jesus gives us an example of how memorized Scripture can be practically used in the battle with temptation. Quoting God’s Word directly in the face of temptation carries a unique power, breaking the attempts of the enemy of our souls to draw us into sin.

And now the most important part! “And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee…” (Luke 4:14)

It turns out that when Christ overcame temptations in the wilderness, He did so by the power of the Holy Spirit. But we also just noticed that He quoted Scripture. So which was it—did He overcome temptations by Scripture or by the power of the Holy Spirit? The answer, as you’ve likely guessed, is both! Victory over sin is the work of the Holy Spirit! And He uses the Word of God to equip, change, and transform us from the inside out, so that we are empowered to say “no” to sin.

“…For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” (Rom. 8:13)

Oh, how we long to see more Christians truly memorizing Bible verses and overcoming every temptation! In the fight against sin, there’s a simple mechanism designed by God Himself, and there’s no need to search for anything else. Let’s encourage one another to memorize the Word of God!

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. ¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.

• Thursday (6:30 PM) – Kid’s Bible School (open to all but required for parents), followed by a prayer service at 7:30 PM.
• Saturday (8:00 – 9:30 AM) – Men’s prayer breakfast
• Sunday Services
  • Worship Service in Russian at 9:00 AM
  • Worship Service in English at 11:15 AM