How to Memorize Scripture in Your Daily Bible Study

If you have ever tried to memorize your favorite passages of scripture you know how difficult it can be. To make your daily Bible study more effective you need to learn how to memorize scripture. By following these few simple techniques you can increase your ability to memorize scripture.

You can choose to do each of these following techniques individually or in steps. In order to memorize scripture most effectively it is encouraged that you use the following techniques as steps.

1. Read the Passage 1 time for every word in the passage. This first method increases the number of times you hear the passage and this is critical to memorizing scripture. Once you start reading the passage multiple times you will be able to recall the passage more easily. Choose a passage from your daily Bible study that means something special to you when you begin this step. By memorizing passages of the Bible that meaningful, you increase the chances of retaining the verse in your memory.

2. Write the Passage of scripture out by hand. Writing the scripture out by hand cements the passage of scripture into your memory.I recommend that you write the passages of the Bible out on individual 5x7 flash cards. You can then use the flash cards for step 4. As you write the passage of scripture look at the key words of the passage and try to remember just a couple of the key words. Once you have a couple of key words taken out of the Bible passage try and remember the key thought of the passage. Once you can remember the key words and the key thoughts you are on your way to remembering the passage.

3. Write the passage of scripture out and put each individual word on a different flash card. After you have the words written on the flash cards line the cards up so that the verse is laid out in reading order. Read the passage of scripture one time. After you have read through the passage one time remove a key word and repeat the passage out loud and verbally say the words you have removed. Begin removing other words each time you repeat the passage until eventually all of the words are removed from the passage. By the time you finish this step you should have the passage completely memorized. This is a critical step in learning how to memorize scripture so take plenty of time practicing this step.

4. Using the flash cards created in step 2 place the passage of scripture throughout your home and in places that you frequently visit. My wife and I hang these passage of the Bible on mirrors in the bathroom, the refrigerator, and on doors we frequently exit. It is important to put these flash cards out after you have memorized the passage as this will keep the passage in your thoughts.

Helpful reminders.
A. Pick passages of scripture that have meaning to you personally. Learning how to memorize scripture is easier when the verses relate to something in your life.

B. Use a version of the Bible that is easy for you to read. I prefer the English Standard Version translation, but any real translation can be used. Refrain from using hard to read versions or paraphrased versions.

I hope these methods help you learn how to memorize scripture in your daily Bible study time. I know that memorizing verses from the Bible gives me peace of mind and a source of comfort in times of trouble. Now go hide God's word in your heart.