How to Memorize Scripture

by Robert C. Veil, Jr.

Memorizing Scripture, like anything worthwhile, requires effort and dedication. But there
are some techniques which make the job much easier if carefully followed. Over the years, I have
made it a practice to memorize numerous passages of God’s word. In the process, I have learned a
few techniques which have helped me in memorizing, and which may work for you too. Here are
9 suggestions which I hope you find helpful:

1. Understand the value of memorizing Scripture. David said, “Thy word have I laid up
   in my heart, that I might not sin against thee,” (Psalms 119:11). The reason we place God’s word
   into our heart and mind is to avoid sinning. It makes it possible to live a life acceptable to God.
   That is very, very important. The person who has committed numerous and lengthy passages to
   memory, has a distinct advantage when the tempter charms. If you can understand the importance
   of avoiding sin in your life, you can appreciate the value of memorizing Scripture.
2. Master the message of the passage you are memorizing. It’s very difficult to memorize
   groups of meaningless words. It’s much easier to memorize a story or a narrative, because we see
   the connection in the words, and we understand their meaning. Study the passage carefully.
   Understand what is being said before you try to memorize the words.
3. Use an older translation. For memorizing, I personally prefer the King James Version
   or the American Standard Version (1901). They are very similar to each other, but their words are
   unique, and they stand out from modern usage. In addition to the fact that they are generally very
   accurate and reliable, they are also memorable and different. It’s like reading well-written poetry.
   This makes them much easier to memorize.
4. Strive for complete accuracy, paying attention to every word. Remember that “all
   scripture is inspired by God,” (2 Timothy 3:16), so every word has been carefully selected by God
   Himself. It is well written, every word is important, and it’s best to memorize it exactly as it is
   translated.
5. Set up a drill in your regular routine. Find an activity in your daily life which will
   accommodate memorization habits. While I was in law school, I had to take a daily bus ride as
   part of my commute. I found that I could either waste that time by daydreaming or reading
   unimportant materials, or I could put it to good use. I decided to do memory work, and it worked
   well. Group drills may also be effective if you can find others who are interested.
6. Make good use of memory aids. One method which worked well for me is the use of
   index cards. Print the passage clearly and legibly on one side of the card. Simply doing that will
   help you memorize it. Then, read the passage as you look at the words carefully. Read it silently
   if you must, but it’s always preferable to read it out loud so you can hear the words as well as see
   them. Then, turn the card over and try to recite to yourself as much of the passage as possible. Flip
   it and look at the words only as absolutely necessary. Keep repeating the process until you are able
   to completely recite the passage, error-free, without looking at the words.
7. Reinforce your work. Go back to the passage memorized yesterday. Try it again, and
   see if you still have it. You may find that additional work is needed, but after reinforcing it for
   several days, you will master it. Go back and double check your work the following week, and
   again the following month.
8. Put your memorization to use. Teach a class or present a lesson using the passages you
   have memorized. Try to recite them accurately and without notes. Being able to do so “under
   pressure” is the real test of effective memorization.
9. Watch for recurrences. As you hear sermons and other lessons, listen for passages you
   have already committed to memory. Try to recite them silently as they are cited. Contextualize in
   your mind, and remember their meaning. Never lose sight of what they are saying, so that the more
   you hear them, the more meaningful they become in your life.
   

Memorizing Scripture can be challenging, exciting, rewarding, and — yes, fun! Some are
better than others at doing this, but I hope the above tips will help all of us.