Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

Instead of "I have hidden", various translations of this verse other than the NIV (as found at https://biblehub.com/psalms/119-11.htm) express it as "I have treasured", "I have stored up", "I have kept", and "I have laid up". To me, these are preferable, since, instead of suggesting a connotation of secrecy or concealment associated with the English word "hidden", they more clearly convey a sense of "storing" God's word in our hearts (which, from a practical standpoint, means in our memories, thoughts, and consciences).

In my opinion, such "storing" is accomplished through familiarity gained by purposeful and repeated reading, memorization, and study of the Bible, and meditation on it. As a result of such activity, relevant passages that pertain to situations in which we find ourselves involved, or that we encounter, will come readily into our minds, so that they can be put into practical use, and serve as a guide for our thoughts, words, and actions, thus fulfilling the admonition of James that Christians be "doers of the word, and not hearers only." (James 1:22)

February 21 2019 • 1 response • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College graduate and Dallas Seminary graduate

Studies have shown that we must read, hear, or do something 6 times before it is in your head -- so for the Bible to get from our head to our heart, we need to read the Bible each and every day.

Thank you, God, for your word. Help us to be faithful to read it and to keep it in our heart to be used each day. Amen.

The Word of God in the Heart Psalm 119:11

1 A Good Provision ‘Thy Word’
2 A Good Practice ‘have I hid’
3 A Good Place ‘in my heart’
4 A Good Purpose ‘that I might not sin against Thee’

See also the link: https://ebible.com/questions/20006-what-are-some-good-ways-to-memorize-the-bible

February 22 2019 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

How do we hide God's word in our hearts (Psalm 119:11)

Psalm 119:11 Rotherham Bible: "In my heart have I treasured what thou hast said, To the end I may not sin against thee."

Appreciation for God's precious word by reflecting on these principal points:

'How can youths keep a clean path?' (9)
"I am fond of your reminders" (24)
"Your word is my hope" (74, 81, 114)
"How I do love your law!" (97)
"More insight than all my teachers" (99)
"Your word is a lamp to my foot" (105)
'The essence of your word is truth' (160)
Peace for those who love God's law (165)

Follow the example found in Psalm 112:1 Rotherham Bible: "How happy is the man who revereth Yahweh, In his commandments delighteth he greatly;"

As indicated in Psalm 112:1, these Christians experience great happiness as they walk "in fear of God." This wholesome fear of displeasing him helps them to resist the spirit of Satan's world. 

They take "very much delight" in studying God's Word and in obeying his commandments. That includes the command to preach the good news of the Kingdom throughout the earth. 

They strive to make disciples of people from all nations while warning the wicked of the coming day of God's judgment.​—Ezek. 3:17, 18; Matt. 28:19, 20.

Plus, to hide God's word in your heart, you must internalise it through consistent reading, studying, and memorising scripture. 

Beyond memorisation, this means meditating on the verses, allowing the truth to guide your thoughts and actions, and putting it into practice daily. The goal is to have the scriptures readily available to shape your character and prevent sin. 

Regularly practice committing verses, passages, or entire chapters of the Bible to memory. This ensures the word of God is always accessible in your mind, regardless of whether a physical Bible is present.

Consistent engagement with the Bible through daily reading builds a foundation of understanding and familiarity. Reflecting on these readings throughout the day helps internalise the message.

Conclusion:

As with any spiritual discipline, consistency is key. Making these activities a regular, ongoing part of your life transforms the study of scripture into a heartfelt commitment. 

These practices help embed God's teachings into your inner being, guiding your thoughts and actions according to His will.

1 day ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report