Join 10,000+ Christians around the world who want to memorize more of God's Word! Josh provides weekly encouragement and ideas that go beyond just rote memorization (repeating over and over). Learn how to internalize and apply the Bible in your life like never before!
5 talents and 4 E's
Published 26 days ago • 2 min read
Hey [CORRECTED_NAME GOES HERE], this last week I was tasked with the job of teaching for our small house church here in Thailand. I know this may sound weird considering my work on YouTube, but preaching isn't a strength or passion of mine. I find it quite difficult!
Last week we studied Matthew 25 and as we worked through the parable of the talents, I was struck anew by a phrase I've read over and over again:
To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability.
[Matthew 25:15, emphasis added]
Jesus specifically calls out the fact that each servant was not only entrusted with gifts based on their ability, but they were also judged only based on what was given them.
For me, it serves as yet another reminder that comparison in this life is futile. I can't know how much God has entrusted to each person to know what He expects from them. Because of this:
I shouldn't compare the reach/impact of Bible Memory Goal against other ministries;
There is no apples-to-apples comparison in the kingdom of God;
What does this mean for you?
There's no point in counting the number of Bible verses you've memorized or comparing it against me or others who have memorized whole books.
What matters is whether you're using the gifts God has given you - the mental capacity and intelligence - to His glory.
So...are you?
📣 The Four E's Framework that WORKS!
Your brain can memorize sounds without even understanding anything...which is why an easy framework like the "4 E's" is so important! Listen as Josh talks with professor Katie Frost.
Lisa shared a sweet picture of Scripture memory woven into everyday worship. As the sun rose, she worked on Psalm 145, listening to songs that echo its truths and praising God as creation came into view. A reminder that memorizing God’s Word isn’t just discipline, it’s delight, especially when Scripture, worship, and the beauty of God’s world meet. Check the songs she found here.​
One of the most encouraging spaces in our community is Share Your Wins, a place where members post recitations, milestones, and progress (big and small!). Hearing God’s Word spoken aloud by others reminds us why we memorize in the first place and gives courage to keep going. If you’ve recently recited a verse, finished a chapter, reviewed an old passage, or even just showed up on a hard day, we’d love to celebrate with you! Go check it out and consider sharing your win!​
Scripture Sync!
I'm going to keep talking about it because it's something my whole family is looking forward to. Join me, Janet Pope and hundreds of others for the most inspiring, encouraging and practical Bible memory event this June. Don't miss out!
Join 10,000+ Christians around the world who want to memorize more of God's Word! Josh provides weekly encouragement and ideas that go beyond just rote memorization (repeating over and over). Learn how to internalize and apply the Bible in your life like never before!