Memorization Tips From Others

In a final post in our series of practical tips on Scripture memorization, I wanted to share some of the suggestions from other memorizers that might assist and inspire you in your own memorization journey.

Bethany points out a cool idea: “Memorize at night! If I am struggling with a verse but review it before bed, I can often recite it perfectly the next morning. Also, if you can sleep with music or audio, listen to the verses/passage you're memorizing! Your brain actually hears it throughout the night, even if your ears don't hear it. I've memorized quite a few things in bed. :)”

Audrey suggests, “Definitely memorize out loud. And make sure you're not distracted. I can repeat a phrase twenty times and completely not know what I'm saying and never remember it because I'm thinking about something else. The key to memorization is DISCIPLINE and FOCUS. If you can really focus your mind for a short time, you'll get way more done than if you worked distractedly for a large chunk of time. (That goes for anything; if you can train yourself to focus in memorization, it will improve your mind in all other areas of life!) As soon as you've memorized the passage, speak it as a whole several times, but MAKE SURE that you are saying it correctly. Continually check yourself to make sure that you didn't make a mistake. Better yet, quote the passage to someone else several times after you've memorized it. Have them correct you as soon as you make a mistake, not when you're finished with the passage. Say the passage at least once a day until it is really firm in your mind. Then, continue to review it regularly.”

Aberdeen recommended that you “use facial expressions or act out certain things. Such as when Paul says in Ephesians, "Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people ...", I would shake my head to indicate "no longer" and put on expression of awe at "fellow citizens". Exaggerated expressions are a good idea. Getting your whole body involved can help a lot. Also, think of each passage as telling a story. It's easier to remember things when you think, "Okay, if Paul was talking about this first, it makes sense that he'd go on to talk about this." Think about the logical progression of topics — why the author talks about this subject after that one. If you understand the argument or story, it's easier to remember.”

Sheila offers some great tips:

“1) Don't give up!
2) Start small and increase as you are able. Our minds really do strengthen with use.
3) Include regular review of your memorized verses; otherwise, they will start to fade over time.
4) If you can find a Scripture memory partner, that will make it even more fun and profitable. Share what you each are learning, check each other on your memorized passages, etc. (I've "accidentally" memorized quite a few verses this way, too!)
5) Use the same Bible every time if you can. You will start to be able to "see" the verse on the page in your mind.
6) Never underestimate the power of Scripture songs!”

Finally, Kimberly shares wise words: “When first learning to memorize verses, don't tell yourself that you MUST memorize a certain number of verses in a certain number of days. When you fall behind (which is likely to happen), you'll give up. Start with just one or two verses that flow easily (not tongue twisters), and give yourself a reasonable goal time (maybe five days, or a week, depending on how motivated and ambitious you are). Never give up learning God's Word! You'll only become a more efficient memorizer with dedication, practice, and effort.”

May God bless your memorization efforts!