For an extra challenge as we look at Psalm 119 this month, we might try memorizing this psalm. Many Christians have memorized Psalm 119, including the French philosopher Blaise Pascal, the British abolitionist Wilbur Wilberforce, and the British missionary David Livingstone.

What might be the purpose of memorizing passages from the Bible? In the section we are focusing on today, the psalmist urges us to read, to ponder, and to store up God’s Word in our hearts so that we know God more deeply and strive to please him with our thoughts, words, and deeds.

The benefits are beyond measure. Meditating deeply on God’s Word increases our joy. People who aim to live by God’s Word have praise on their lips and joyful delight in their hearts. Through nurturing God’s Word in our hearts, our passion to please God will grow. And our lives will grow more pleasing to God as we seek to live by every word that comes from his mouth.

Whether or not you take up the challenge to memorize Psalm 119, take the psalmist’s advice to store up God’s Word in your heart. As you do, your joy will grow as you learn God’s will and strive to please him more and more.