We have a program in our church that teaches children to memorize Bible verses. I am always astounded at how many Bible verses these kids memorize. From time to time we celebrate the number of verses they have memorized and the adults are amazed! But why so amazed?
Parents (and many adults) struggle to memorize Bible verses, especially to the degree that children do. As a growing disciple, though, it is important to memorize, and it doesn’t have to be difficult. Often, adults simply do not believe they can, but everyone can memorize Scriptures.
Start Simple
I suggest that you start with a simple verse. Don’t select one you already know, like John 3:16. Choose one to boost your memory confidence. Here’s a few simple verses:
- 2 Timothy 2:2
- Matthew 6:33
- John 10:10
- Psalm 119:11
Repetition is the Key
When you start memorizing, say the verse over and over and over and over. Every day for several days, repeat, repeat, repeat until you have it mastered. Don’t attempt another verse until you have mastered it.
Repeat Anytime
The great thing about Scripture memory is that you can practice just about anytime, anywhere:
- In the car line at school
- Waiting on your next appointment
- While you are eating
- Driving to your next adventure
- As you are falling asleep
Blessings and Benefits
When we store up God’s Word in our hearts, we are able to recall those verses under life’s extreme situations, whether times of great distress or great joy. Recalling Scripture also helps us to stay out trouble when tempted. Scripture memory helps us to:
- Grow in Christlikeness and be transformed in our minds (Romans 12:1-2)
- Enjoy daily triumph over sin. (Psalm 119:11)
- Celebrate daily triumph over Satan. When Satan tempted Jesus, He recited Scripture to win victory.
- Provide you with instant access to comfort and counsel those you love.
- Communicate the Gospel to unbelievers with the authority of God’s Word.
- Develop deeper communion with God.
- Keep up with the kiddos when they memorize their verses!
As you add more and more verses to your quiver, don’t forget to review previously memorized verses. And above all, don’t forget that the goal is not to check off a bunch of Bible verses. The goal is to grow closer to God by storing up His Word in your heart where it will never leave.
Here’s an app that I use and I have found it to be very helpful to me: ScriptureTyper is available for smartphones and tablets. If you are a gadget person, you will like this. Of course, you can always use note cards, too. Get a memory partner to help you and memorize with you. Two are better than one. Keep a list of the Scriptures you’ve memorized and review them regularly. Watch how God uses these verses in your daily life!
What experiences can you share about your Bible verse memorization?
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