Hidden In My Heart Scripture Memory Bible

Most Christians know that it would be beneficial to memorize Scripture, but when it comes to DOING it....well, that's something else entirely.  The title of this new Bible comes from Psalm 119:11 in which David writes "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."  For those of us who have a desire to memorize Scripture but could use a little help and direction, this Bible may be a good resource!

So what features make this Bible unique?

1)  Within the Bible text, 100 Core Memory Verses are chosen and highlighted in a text box.  These verses are written in 3 popular translations (NLT, NIV, and KJV) so that you can choose which version to memorize.  There is also a paragraph of explanation, a prayer using that verse, a devotion that can be found at the back of the book, and a song which can be downloaded or listened to for free online.  A checklist is provided at the back of the book to keep track of your progress.

2) For those who want a challenge: There is a set of "Challenge" verses also highlighted within the text and written in the 3 translations.  There is also an index suggesting good Bible passages to memorize and stories to learn.

3) At the front and rear of the book you can find tips and suggestion for how to memorize Scripture and thematic/topical verse finders.  These include the core verses and many more.  So if I was lacking confidence and wanted to memorize some verses on this subject, I look up "confidence" and BOOM...there's 12 verses I can choose from.

So what about the songs?  This feature was the one I was most anxious to check out.  The index at the back of the book categorizes the songs by age range and musical styles.  These songs are supposed to appeal to people of all ages.  So I listened...  The verdict? Good songs....for young kids only.  I'm all for worship songs that use Scripture, but the voice used in recording these songs and the styles all point to young children.  The kids that I know (age 10 and up) would roll their eyes at this music.  I have no doubt that it would aide in memorization, but the process would not be pleasant, for them or for me.

Overall: Even if the music is not for you, the other features in this Bible make it a good resource.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for an honest review.