GOD'S WORD STORED WITHIN

Our latent 'sin nature' wrestles against our heartfelt desire to walk uprightly before God. 

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. Romans 7:18-19

In order to recognize and overcome temptation, we are given a weapon ... the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Ephesians 6:17

If we commit Scripture to memory, it becomes an ever-available source of strength in the battle for our hearts and minds. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.  Psalms 119:11

Key phrases in this verse ...

1) 'Thy Word' 

The Bible ... the Lord's commandments, statutes, ordinances, testimonies, and precepts are all contained in the written Word of God. 'All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.' 2 Timothy 3:16-17

2) 'In My Heart'

The Word of God is not to be locked within the pages of a book but retained in your memory so that it is with you always. When those around you need comfort or counsel, a Bible is not always at hand. If spoken spontaneously from your heart, scripture has an impact. For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

3) 'That I might not sin against Thee'

It is not just having the Word stored in our memory ... nor is it just the 'treasuring' of it. But combined, they give us the power to stand against temptation. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105

God designed 'faith' to feed on the promises of Scripture. Your spiritual well-being depends on ready access to those precious Biblical truths. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; Let them all be fixed upon your lips, so that your trust may be in the Lord. Proverbs 22:18-19 

He has given you the gift of His Word. Faith rises or falls to the degree that you take advantage of that treasure. Store it in your heart, pilgrim.