Psalm 119:11 - Music and Memory

I have hidden your word in my heart

that I might not sin against you.

I want my children to know and love God's word: to get to know and love God, to know how He loves them, to know how to please Him, to learn to choose wisdom over foolishness, to be changed by the life-giving words.

I don't want them to think that knowing the Bible is about making sure you know more than others, quoting lots of Bible verses to impress people, or simply a way to find out how to live a "good" life.

I want the Word to be their food, for man does not live by bread alone. (Deuteronomy 8:3)

The truth is, however, that I don't always turn to God's Word or obey it.  (Can I get an 'Amen!' on this point, or am I the only one?!)  I might be more grown up and further along, but we're learning together and any exposure we can have is worth it!  (As long as we're not pressuring with guilt and condemnation.)  I've come to find it delightful to memorize verses with the kids and see how God draws those things into our daily life.  The Holy Spirit is always with His children, ready to spur us on, comfort us, guide us.

One way that we have "accidentally" memorized many verses is with music.  My friend, Meda, recommended Steve Green's Hide 'Em In Your Heart cds several years back.  Many a time, I (yes me, not my kids!) have been gently reminded to "Do everything without complaining, do everything without arguing!" when God brings to mind that light-hearted song in times of grumbling.  Thanks, Meda!

Recently, my friend, Sarah, sent us the Seeds Family Worship: Encouragement cd which is in the same vein as the Steve Green discs.  We love it!  Now you may find one of us wandering around the house singing, "Take heart, take heart, I have overcome, overcome the world!  Take heart, take heart!"  We'll be getting more from the series for sure.  These songs all include the Scripture reference, so not only are we getting the verse, but where it came from.  Let me also add that these are good for kids for all ages, where Green's are more geared toward a child crowd.  Thanks, Sarah!

This morning Brian was singing Philippians 4:8.  Even as young as two, our children can be hiding the word in their hearts.  Their heads may have no idea what's being sung or quoted, but the good Lord will not let his word return to Him empty! (Isaiah 55:11)

I grew up in a home where we listened to lots of kids Bible music.  I've been thankful to have that as part of my legacy; you don't forget the songs of your youth (whether it's "I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy" or "Ice, Ice Baby" - just sayin'.)  Thanks, Mommy and Papa!

How do you hide God's word in your hearts at your house?