10 Compelling Reasons to Write Scripture

I haven’t always written Scripture. Honestly, until a few years ago, it simply wasn’t on my radar.

I suppose that shouldn’t surprise me as it fits with what I find to be the impression of Scripture Writing held by many. When I have the privilege of sharing this powerful spiritual discipline with others, the responses typically sound something like:

“Write Scripture? What on earth for when the words are right there in front of me?”

“Whoa! I’ve never really thought about WRITING Scripture.”

“Seriously, I don’t even have the time to READ my Bible.”

“It sounds intriguing, but my handwriting is so bad!”

Scripture Writing is simply the act of writing out word-for-word by hand selected passages of the Bible.

10 REASONS TO WRITE SCRIPTURE

1. Writing Scripture mirrors the example set by scribes, kings, and apostles.

The writing out of Scripture word-for-word by hand is biblical. Throughout both the Old and New Testament, we see its practice. John, Paul, Luke, Jeremiah, Joshua, and our Lord Himself (Exodus 34:1) all wrote out Scripture.

And in Deuteronomy 17:18-20, we see another interesting example. In these verses, it is recorded that God commanded the kings of Israel to personally write out their own copy of the Bible to be read all the days of their lives. This practice established by God for the kings of Israel should be a testament to us of the value and effectiveness of handwriting Scripture.

2. We are instructed to write.

While we might be tempted to think that Writing Scripture was something meant for those who lived in Bible times, we would do well to notice that the instruction to write Scripture was not reserved only for prophets and the kings of Israel.

“You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”

Deuteronomy 6:9

3. Scripture Writing slows us down.

Writing Scripture is a mighty deterrent to the quick surface reading we are prone to. When we take the time to write the words of the Bible one-by-one, our reading pace is naturally slowed. This slower pace tunes us in to details and enables us to see things we do not otherwise see.

4. Writing Scripture provides focus.

Scripture Writing get you into the Word and helps you become more focused on it. As pen is put to paper, our attention is drawn to the words of the Bible enabling us to better “see” what is before us. Comprehension is improved, and when our writing is extended to include circling, drawing, and noting, helps us make connections that are key to meaning.

5. Scripture Writing helps us reflect.

In addition to improved focus and comprehension, the slower reading pace brought about by the writing of Scripture encourages reflection. The spiritual discipline of Writing Scripture provides us with more time to think about the text of God’s Word and to dwell on its meaning and application.  

6. Scripture Writing helps us to remember.

Another benefit of Writing Scripture is that the process involves the mind and helps with retention. It is an aid to memory.

I believe, most of us would agree that writing something down helps us to recall that information later. It is important to understand that when we write out something, the information from that writing is brought to the forefront of the brain triggering the brain to pay focused attention to what is being written. This results in the physical act of writing being one of the most effective ways to study and retain new information.   

7. Rest is found in the Scripture Writing process.

This may seem counterintuitive because writing requires some focused energy and physical movement from our body. However, when we sit down and pen words on paper, especially powerful passages from the Bible, our mind finds rest.  

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” 

Matthew 11:28

Just as writing our personal thoughts out on paper can be therapeutic, writing out God’s Truth can have a profound effect on our consciousness. When God takes our burdens as we meditate with pen to paper on the Word, our bodies release and relax. 

8. Scripture Writing cultivates a relationship with the Lord.

The fundamental aim of our life is to know God. When we make the intentional choice to take even ten minutes out of our day to write the Scripture we are reading, we are saying, “I choose You, God.” Our choice declares that our relationship with God is more important than anything on our to-do list or any ‘fire’ we feel the need to put out. These moments spent writing His Word, require us to be present and fully focused on Him. The simple act of writing Scripture moves us toward Him. 

9. Scripture writing is an act of worship.

As we sit at the feet of Jesus Writing Scripture, we adore, honor, revere, and love extravagantly!

Worship is the practice of praising God’s greatness, goodness, and beauty. It’s adoring, honoring, revering, and loving extravagantly – anytime, anywhere, and in a multitude of ways.

10. Scripture Writing is accessible.

Scripture writing is not a complicated process, nor does it have to consume large amounts of time.  It can be done at any time of the day and for any amount of time one has available. Simply stated it can easily be made to fit into anyone’s day – ANYONE, adult, teen, or child!

A FINAL THOUGHT

Ten reasons to write Scripture and each one compelling. Personally, however, Scripture Writing’s most convincing argument is that it is a tool for nourishing the soul.

Scripture Writing time is time with God.  And remember that the physical act of writing brings the powerful words of the Bible to the forefront of the brain, greatly amplifying what God has for us.  As these words come to the forefront and we mull them over, deeper meaning is revealed.  We enjoy more intimate time with God, our relationship is deepened, and our soul finds the nourishment that only time with Him and the truth of His Word can provide. 

Engaging the Scripture: Encountering God in the Pages of His Word

The Bible is one of God’s greatest gifts to His people. It’s a gift that is vital to the health of our soul. Yet many of us are missing out on many of the benefits of this amazing gift because we don’t feel that we know how to read it for understanding. Engaging the Scripture explores 5 ways a reader can learn to interact with the text of the Bible, encountering God.