One of the most powerful weapons God has given us for conquering fear and worry is memorising Scripture. Memory is a bit like a muscle; the more we use it, the stronger it becomes. There are lots of things we can recite from memory. Things like birthdays and important dates, addresses and phone numbers, National Insurance numbers, bank account numbers, and car number plates. All these items have two characteristics in common: we use them frequently, and we need them constantly. In other words, we‘ve memorised them because we use them so often, and we can’t get along without them. In a similar way, we can begin to conquer our worries by confronting them as soon as they appear with a powerful Scripture verse that we’ve memorised. God’s power is greater than our problems, and God’s Word is greater than our worries. He’s committed to keeping His Word, so whenever we speak scriptural words and promises into our situation, we’re bringing His wisdom directly into it. Just as Jesus resisted the devil’s lies by speaking Scripture (see Matthew 4:1-11), we can fight temptation, worry and fear with God’s Word. Here are some simple verses to begin to memorise for when we’re feeling anxious: ‘You are my place of safety and protection. You are my God and I trust you’ (Psalm 91:2 NCV); ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD you God is with you wherever you go’ (Joshua 1:9 NLT); ‘Even if I walk through a very dark valley, I will not be afraid, because you are with me’ (Psalm 23:4 NCV); ‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you’ (Psalm 56:3 NIV).

What Now?

Build up you weapon supply against fear by trying to memorise one Bible verse each week, even if it’s only a few words. Choose verses that build up your confidence in God and remind you that you can trust Him (the Psalms are a good place to start looking).