How To: Memorize Scripture

One of my goals for my relationship with the Lord  is to memorize scripture.

I recently finished memorizing a few of my favorite psalms, and I love having the ability to quickly recall those verses to mind. Scripture memory is vital to a thriving and dynamic relationship with the Lord. Give Psalm 119 a read to see the value and importance of the Word of God.

” How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:9-11

Below are a few tips and tricks on memorizing scripture. These are by no means original to me, however, I’ve found these suggestions to be exceptionally beneficial in my own life as I memorize the Word of God.

1) Memorize with someone!

Memorizing scripture with someone, or a group of people holds you accountable to actually doing what you say you’re going to do. When I know that my friend is going to ask me every Sunday morning over coffee to hear the verses I’ve memorized that week, I’m much more likely to being rigorous in scripture memory.

2) Make it a priority!

Be diligent with finding and carving out time to memorize scripture. If something is a priority to you, you’ll do it. Ask the Lord to give you a hunger and thirst for His word, and for hiding His word in your heart. Chuck Swindoll on the importance of memorizing Scripture…

I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture. . . . No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified(Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).

3) Redeem “empty time” with memorization / meditation

I live in Washington D.C, and my morning commute is half an hour. I could choose to use that time to listen to music, call a friend, or allow my thoughts to wander. However, I’ve made a commitment to filling my mind and heart with the word of God, and I’ve found that my commute is a great time to memorize.

Take a good look at your schedule and look for “empty time” in your day, such as your work/school commute, waiting in line, getting ready in the morning, etc. Another small way I’ve found to redeem the time is by memorizing scripture while I get ready in the morning. I can easily have a note card with scripture on it and memorize while I’m blowing drying my hair, making my breakfast or drinking my coffee.

Get creative with when and where you’ll memorize!

3) Start off small

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. You don’t have to memorize an entire book or chapter of the Bible in the beginning. Start off small. Maybe pick your favorite Psalm and memorize a few verses a week. Don’t compare yourself with others. Sure, there are some people who can quickly memorize large chunks of the Word, but don’t worry if you’re not one of those people. Put one foot in front of the other, and continue to fill your mind with Scripture!

4) Repetition, repetition, repetition!

Repeat the verses to yourself. Say them out loud, write them down, sing them. Do whatever it takes to make sure they are deeply rooted in your mind. A useful trick is to read each verse 9 times, and then say it to yourself 9 times. Use this practice as you continue to add verses. For example, read/say verse one 9 times, then read/say verse one and two 9 times, etc. This process might seem tedious, but it’s important to firmly establish the verses in your memory, so they’ll stick over time.

5) Use Note cards

This tip might not work for everyone, but it sure does work for me for two reasons.

First, you have to actually write the verse down on a note card, which helps solidify the verse in the memory. Second, you can take note cards with you anywhere. I’m currently working on Romans 8, and I have the spiral bound note cards.

At the end of the day, the important thing is to take every thought captive, and fill our mind with the word of God. Don’t beat yourself up or allow yourself to be feel guilty if you’re not doing as much as you think you ought.

Beloved, may we allow the Word of Christ to dwell in us richly!

What are some of your favorite tips and tricks for memorizing scripture?