Memorization of Scripture

The Discipline of Scripture Memory

Pastor Richard Hovey

"Memorization is the process of continually remembering the words, truths, and images God uses to shape us. Memorization provides us with a store of learning, which can be accessed anywhere and anytime" (Adele Calhoun, Spiritual Disciplines Handbook).

"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" (Chuck Swindoll, Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life).

"Gather the riches of God’s promises. Nobody can take away from you those texts from the Bible which you have learned by heart" (Corrie ten Boom).

"What if I offered you one thousand dollars for every verse you could memorize in the next seven days? Do you think your attitude toward Scripture memory and your ability to memorize would improve? Any financial reward would be minimal when compared to the accumulating value of the treasure of God’s Word deposited within your mind" (Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life).

Practicing the Discipline of Memorization

Here are some simple steps to memorizing Scripture:

  • Decide which verses or passages you would like to memorize (there is an extended list below you may decide to choose from).

  • Have these verses nearby (either printed out or in an app).

  • If you are a visual learner, include images to help you remember verses/passages.

  • As you memorize a verse also memorize where it is found (book, chapter, and verse).

  • Regularly review the verses you've memorized.

"Remember that memorizing verses is not an end in itself. The goal is not to see how many verses we can memorize; the goal is godliness. The goal is to memorize the Word of God so that it can transform our minds and our lives" (Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life).

Resources

  • This short book, An Approach to Extended Memorization of Scripture by Andrew Davis, is a bit of a longer read than most items posted in this series but is worth the time if you want to learn more (go deeper) in your memorization of Scripture. (It is free - click on the title to be taken to the site).

  • 100 Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart by Robert J. Morgan (2010)