Today, I want to take a step back and focus on something foundational to scripture memory which is how memory actually works.
Now, I know memorizing scripture can feel overwhelming at times. Have you ever struggled to retain a verse, even after repeating it over and over? Or maybe you’ve memorized a passage, only to forget it weeks later? You’re not alone. Im not an expert in memory, but I know memory plays a crucial role in scripture memorization. So, I did some digging around and according to research from the Cleveland Clinic, it operates in three distinct ways.
First, there’s sensory memory, this is the information we take in through our five senses: touch, taste, sight, hearing, and smell. In Scripture memorization, sensory memory is activated when we hear, sing, or write a verse. One could also use the First Letter technique or even create an object which both would serve as a visual memory cue for a specific passage. These brief interactions help lay the foundation for moving scripture into deeper memory storage.
Next, there’s short-term memory, which acts as a temporary storage space, holding information for a few seconds to minutes. It’s easy to access but not designed for long-term retention. In scripture memorization, this might mean repeating a verse several times in one sitting or even reviewing it daily for 30 days before stopping. However, 30 days alone may not be enough to transfer it into long-term memory because it requires deeper reinforcement.
The key to moving scripture from short-term to long-term memory is repeated engagement. When we read, speak, hear, and even write out verses, we strengthen recall and reinforce connections. The more senses we involve, the better we retain God’s Word for life.
God designed our minds to absorb scripture in powerful ways, and when we use these different memory functions intentionally, we set ourselves up to carry His truth with us forever.
Consistent review is the key to storing scripture in long-term memory. Here it can be retained for years, potentially even for life. Understanding how memory works is important but applying that knowledge through regular review is what truly solidifies scripture in our hearts. The more we revisit and reinforce what we've memorized, the stronger those connections become.
Throughout my own scripture memorization journey, I’ve learned a lot from others and developed my own system for review. I’m always tweaking it, and I imagine you’ll do the same. That’s why I think it’s helpful to hear how others approach their review process. I ll add some links in the blog post so you can explore different methods on your own.
Early on in my scripture memorization journey, I relied on the Bible Memory App (click to see) to help me review. It was a helpful tool for reminding me when to review but relying on my phone became a challenge. I wanted something that wouldn’t distract or tempt me to pick it up constantly. On top of that, I struggled with consistency, and as a result, it took me nearly two years to memorize 1 Peter.
Then I came across a video by Josh Summers called "Creative Idea for Memory Review," and it completely changed how I approached scripture review. From that moment on, I was hooked and haven’t switched back to any other system.
I want to share what I learned from that video, along with the ways I’ve adapted it to better suit my own needs. Of course, this method might not be the perfect fit for everyone, and that’s completely okay!
There are countless ways to review scripture, so take the time to explore and find what works best for you. If you’re like me, you probably appreciate seeing how someone else does it first, then deciding whether to give it a try yourself.
I set up my scripture memory folder a little bit like the video below. I'll try to create a video so that you can see how I have organized mine. (hoping in August)
So, how do I review? My review is a form of spaced repetition, but consistency is key, and I try to review every day if possible. If I can confidently recite a new verse for a few days in a row, I’ll add another one. To keep things engaging, I switch up my review methods, because let’s be honest, doing the same thing every day can get boring.
Most mornings, I set aside dedicated time to go through my verses. Depending on how much time I have, I’ll either use the First Letter Method, write it out, or say them out loud.
On busy days when I don’t have time to sit down and review, I’ll listen to a prerecorded voice memo of myself reciting scripture or play it on a Bible audio app. I’ll fit it in while getting ready, walking the dog, or even driving. Just finding small pockets of time to stay consistent.
If I’m struggling with a verse, I take a few extra steps to reinforce it. First, I set aside focused time to work on that one verse and eliminate distractions. Sometimes, I’ll go for a walk and repeat it until it sticks, then I’ll mix in previous verses, so everything flows more naturally.
I also try to pinpoint exactly what is making a verse difficult to remember. When that happens, I use different memory aids to help strengthen recall.
- Acronyms can be useful by turning the first letters of words into a memorable phrase, like GEPC for Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians, which can be remembered using "General Electric Power Company."
- Rhymes and songs also make verses easier to retain, and I’ve found that The Corner Room does a great job of putting scripture to music using the ESV Bible version.
- Another helpful technique is visualization, where I create mental images that connect ideas, making recall more natural. Lastly, I use chunking, which allows me to break verses into smaller, manageable parts, making longer passages easier to memorize over time.
Some weeks, my brain is on fire, and I memorize quickly. Other weeks, I do more reviewing. If you’re looking for a structured plan, I’ve put one together that you can follow! I loosely stick to it, but I prefer my scripture Memory Folder.
if you haven’t already, I encourage you to find an accountability group because it makes such a difference in staying consistent.
I’m incredibly grateful to have a group of women surrounding me. We encourage each other to keep pressing on. We’re all in different seasons of life, and that’s okay. Some memorize quickly, while others take their time. The important thing is to keep moving forward.
You can do this too! All you need is one person willing to come alongside you. Maybe you make it a summer goal for your family, or maybe you have a friend who’s interested in memorizing scripture. Ask them to join you as we start Psalm 19. Accountability is key, and if you’re struggling to find someone, the Bible Memory Community is a great place to connect. I’ll add that link to the show notes too!
Remember, whatever verse you’re focusing on today is exactly what the Lord wants you to meditate on. Let’s keep encouraging one another and pressing on in His Word.
