Tips for Memorizing Scripture

Here at The Bookery, we obviously deeply believe that Scripture is a way God speaks truth into our lives. But if we’re being honest, we struggle with memorizing Scripture just as much (or maybe more!) as the next person. So today, we’re listing a few tips to help us write God’s Word on our hearts.

1. Pick your Scripture passage with purpose. All Scripture is useful as 2 Timothy 3:16 puts it, but when you’re actively trying to memorize a verse or passage, it can be helpful to select something that applies to your current situation.
   

2. Start small. For your first big Scripture memory assignment, it probably makes sense not to select a long passage or a chapter! Definitely start with a verse or two, but don’t be afraid to break those verses down into phrases, concepts or word pictures. Memorize it phrase-by-phrase, bit-by-bit until you remember the entire verse.
   

3. Use different senses and learning styles to engage with the Scripture. Writing down a verse over and over can be very helpful in memorizing, but it may not work for everyone. Try repeating the verse aloud or sketching it. It may feel silly, but motions can also help—so don’t be afraid to embrace your inner child. Music can be a powerful memory tool, so finding a song based on the verse or making up a tune of your own can also help.
   

4. Make it part of your daily routine. Building a habit takes time and repetition—and so does memorizing Scripture. It’s important to set aside specific times to work on the verse or passage, but don’t think of it as a homework assignment. Choose times when your hands are busy but your might is free: when you’re washing dishes or folding laundry. Maybe even make it into a full family challenge and work on it in the car on the way to school drop-off or work.
   

5. Gamify it. There are Scripture memorization apps available that use a game approach to help you write the passage on your heart. Do a little research and find an app that works for you—then make sure you set aside time to engage with it on a regular basis.
   

6. Pray the Passage. If you’ve selected a passage that speaks to your current life situation, it’s likely you’ll find moments when you’re praying those words back to God as a prayer. Using Scripture as prayer is a great way to center your heart and mind on God and seek his will.

Have a tip that helps you memorize Scripture? Share it in the comments or on social media!