I was born and raised in the Bible Belt, a region of the U.S. known to have higher church attendance. Like most people in my context, I grew up going to church most of the Sundays of my childhood.
Each Sunday, like most churches, a Scripture verse or two was read, and our pastor preached about the passage. As a kid I often left the service confused about how these pieces of Scripture fit together as a broader story.
While we should understand that one or a few verses can never adequately represent the Bible as a whole, there is still value in holding tightly to specific verses as they relate to our walk of faith.
Consider what “sticks”
Unless one is particularly studious, many of us grew up reading only the Bible verses that are read in worship services. People have full, busy lives. They must juggle school, work, parenting, and various other responsibilities. It is easy to see why people don’t always have the time to devote to biblical study.
Yet despite our busy schedules, it’s important that we create space to study the Bible in its entirety to grasp the full story of God’s love for us. The Scriptures are intended to be read in the context of the whole story, not one isolated piece at a time. But even in doing so, many of us cling tightly to a handful of verses and we find great solace in them.
I believe that certain books, passages or verses stick with us for a reason. The Scripture that you hold most often in your mind can really make a difference in how you see the world and how you live out your faith. What we hold dear has the power to shape our lives.
Scripture shapes and guides us
A foundational Bible verse for me is Galatians 6:9. It came to me in a dream when I was a young teenager. It was as if it was seared into my brain. I even decided to get it tattooed on my forearm when I was nineteen so that I would never forget it.
“So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
This verse reminds us to be patient and to be good even if nothing good comes in return. It is a lesson of perseverance that has come in handy so many times throughout my life. In many ways it is central to the way I practice my faith. I learned a long time ago that faith is more of a marathon than a sprint.
Remembering to be good because God has called me to be so has kept me from burning out on extending kindness to a world that sometimes refuses to do the same. If I were simply focused on potential personal gain, I would have worn myself down long ago.
This Galatians passage is a reminder of the long game. Our journey will not end in a day, it will end in a lifetime; and if you intend to make it that far, perseverance and patience will serve you well.
Your connection point
There may be a different passage that resonates with you. In fact, I am almost certain there is, given the length and depth of the Bible. Maybe those verses are how God is giving you a nudge, or maybe it is your spirit responding to something that will bring you strength, guidance, and purpose.
If you can’t think of any specific passages or verses that guide you, perhaps today is the day to open your Bible and to hear what God has to say.
Laquaan Malachi is a licensed local pastor in the Minnesota Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. He has a passion for people and justice, and is also an author, poet and spoken word artist whose work often includes themes surrounding justice and/or mental health.
This commentary was published on July 6, 2026. The contact is Laura Buchanan.
