A gentle method for memorizing Scripture

Memorizing Scripture can sound daunting, but short verses and a little structure make it surprisingly enjoyable.

Start short

Choose a verse of one sentence. A few good first verses from the library:

• “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)
• “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
• “We love him, because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

The first-letter technique

Write only the first letter of each word. For Psalm 56:3, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee” becomes:

W t I a a, I w t i t.

Read the full verse once, then try to recite it using only the letters. Within a few rounds, the letters alone are enough.

Review on a widening schedule

Recite the verse today, tomorrow, in three days, and in a week. Each successful recall can wait a little longer before the next one.

Say the reference too

Saying the reference at the start and end (“Psalm 56:3 … Psalm 56:3”) makes the verse easy to find again — and to share.