5 Ways to Memorize Scripture

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I hear voices in my head. Do you hear them too?

Is there an internal voice speaking words you remember from childhood? “Chew with your mouth closed.” “Fasten your seatbelt.” Some of these phrases are so ingrained that they’re part of who you are. The speaker’s words live on in you.

By reading the Bible, God can be that voice.

The Bible reveals God’s character, gives guidance for right living, and makes promises He will never forsake. I encourage you to read scripture daily in order to discover a personal God and develop an active relationship. As we become familiar with His Word, He will bring verses to mind that offer comfort, provide courage, and inform our decisions.

The wise author of Proverbs 3:1 (NIV) says: “My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart.”

Store, as in keep, hide away, preserve…memorize.

Groan! Memorizing scripture is too hard! My mind doesn’t work that way anymore. I can’t!

I hear you! But without realizing it, you’re constantly memorizing new things through frequent exposure.

Do you sing along to the latest hits while driving? Can you identify the product whose slogan is Just Do It.

Or bake your favorite cookies without a recipe? Do the keystrokes for your favorite online store flow from your fingertips automatically?

Congratulations! You memorized! Was any of it difficult or unpleasant?

Storing God’s Word in your heart can be just as easy, enjoyable, and so much more valuable than “I’m Lovin’ It.”

Consider these ideas to increase your exposure to scripture:

• – Sing your Scriptures.

If you hum Sunday worship hymns long after the service ends, load your digital music library with songs containing scriptural lyrics. Two of my favorites are By Name I Have Called You (Angotti) which quotes many verses and Thy Word (Grant/Smith) based on Psalm 119:105. Singing scripture is enjoyable and long lasting! I still remember Psalm 100 from a first grade cherub choir song.

• – Create a slogan.

Start with short, effective phrases. Speaking aloud the words “Get behind me, Satan” (Matthew 16:23 NKJV) is effective for battling temptation, but be careful to say it with a smile when a friend offers a cookie. Breathe in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee with a cheerful “This is the day that the Lord has made.” In time, you can add “let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24 ESV)

• – Put pen to paper.

Writing words out longhand imprints them in your memory. Post sticky notes containing verses that speak to you on your computer screen. (Here are some cute and lovely butterfly sticky notes!) Create signs with decorative lettering to hang where you’ll read them frequently. Print photos with scripture from Pinterest.

• – Pray God’s Word.

Prop scripture cards between the salt & pepper shakers to add a verse of thanks to your mealtime grace. Or fill a pretty box on your nightstand with God’s promises to begin your bedtime prayers.

• – Do it daily.

A variety of devotionals are available to connect you with God’s Word. Find one that’s delivered in a manner you’ll commit to reading, like a verse-a-day calendar, scriptural email, or favorite pastor’s blog. Choose a version you can understand so you’ll ponder and apply the verse throughout the day.

As the Bible becomes more familiar, God will be the voice that’s talking in your head, guiding your direction, strengthening your resolve, and comforting your soul.

Knowing His Word will help you to trust His promises and make wiser choices.

I pray that your life is blessed by storing God’s Word in your heart. “…with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26 KJV)

Do you have any out-of-the-box methods to memorizing Scripture?