Memorizing scripture is SO important. If we don’t know the truth, how can we discern truth from error? Flash cards have helped me memorize scripture, follow along to see how!
Having became a Christian as a young adult, I didn’t grow up learning how to memorize scripture. I am so grateful for a sister in Christ that taught me a simple way to do this. At first I didn’t realize the significance of memorizing scripture, but now that I’ve grown in my faith I see how vital it is to know scripture.
To know scripture is to have it stored in your heart and your mind. The great thing about this is that you can ask God to help you memorize His word. It can be intimidating to memorize scripture because there is just so much there. That is a fear I, personally, can relate too. I do believe that for some time I didn’t think I was smart enough to memorize scripture. But, as I’ve drawn near to God, I’ve realized that those feelings were just Satan trying to pull me away from God.
Part of having a relationship with God, is knowing His word. Now that I am a mother, I am even more eager to store up scripture in my heart and mind so that I can speak it over my children.
Pin It!
What the Bible says about knowing scripture
In Joshua, we see God calling him to lead after Moses. It is commanded to Joshua, in chapter 1 verse 8, to know scripture so well that he will not depart from it and follow God’s laws.
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it.”
It is imperative that we know God’s word so that we can keep His laws. This message is not only for Joshua, as a new leader, but we can apply it to our lives. We are to go and make disciples as well, so God’s law and the gospel should flow out of our mouths to everyone we speak to.
Another example of what scripture says about knowing it comes from Ephesians chapter 6. In this chapter, we are told to “put on the whole armor of God.” This includes “the sword of the spirit, which is God’s word.”
In other words, we are commanded to know God’s word and live righteous lives. Much like you would put on armor for defense. This is how we will be able to discern truth from error, when differing opinions come about.
Why use flash cards to memorize scripture?
Flash cards are a great way to memorize scripture because it requires transferring God’s word onto another paper. Some people learn best when they both read and write, others learn best from just seeing.
I believe that flash cards can be a helpful tool for any type of learner. This is because you first read God’s word, then read it again as you re-write it on a flash card, then say it out loud to memorize it.
Having the scripture felt as you write, heard audibly, and read multiple times helps it stick in your brain. Now, there are other ways to memorize scripture. However, I have found this way to be the most helpful for any type of learner.
How long does it take to memorize scripture with flash cards?
The amount of time it will take a person to memorize scripture with the flash card method varies. It varies depending on learning speed, distractions, and personality. I find that if I’m distracted when I try to memorize scripture, I can read it over 50 times and it won’t stick.
Some personality types make it super quick and easy to pick up scripture and store it in their minds. If that is not you, don’t be discouraged. God has created us all uniquely and we all have different strengths.
I will say that for me, personally, it takes a couple of weeks to memorize several verses in a chapter. This is because I only have a limited time to practice per day. So, since I’m only residing my bible verse once or twice daily it takes longer. I have small children who need my attention, so that is all I can manage at this time.
Figure out a pattern that works best for your life to memorize scripture. Consistency is key to success. I would also recommend having some accountability. This can be a spouse, friend, or scripture memorization group. Having someone who can hold you accountable helps make sure you are practicing your verses daily and striving to reach your goal of memorization.
Simple steps to memorizing scripture with flash cards
- Begin by picking a section of scripture to memorize. I would recommend starting out with 5-10 verses at a time to begin with. I find that I am drawn to memorizing certain types of scripture. For example, I am a wife and mother, so I wanted to memorize Proverbs 31. Proverbs 31 is an example of a godly woman, so I want to model her character.
- Next, get a stack of flash cards and being writing the passages, word for word.
- The last step is the most important of all. The third step is when you get to reading the flash card over and over.
- Pick an accountability partner or group that can hear you audibly practice your scripture, often. Set a goal for how many times you will practice alone and with your accountability partner and stick to it!
Tips for helping memorize scripture this way
- Set attainable, realistic goals for yourself. Evaluate your lifestyle and be sure you can reach your goal in a timely manner. You know yourself better that anyone else.
- Pick a word in each verse that reminds you of the entire verse. Underline it on your flash card. This way, if you get stuck when reading aloud your verse, you can ask for the reminder word to get you back on track.
- Use the same translation each time you practice your verses.
I hope you found this post helpful in your journey to memorizing scripture. Memorizing scripture is something we all, as Christians, are called to do.
I would love to hear other ways that have helped you memorize scripture, leave a comment below!
More encouragement from My Abiding Home:
Leave a Reply