The Case for Scripture Memory

Dr. Emilie M. Storch, PhD

Scripture memory is becoming a lost discipline in the lives of modern children.  With the infusion of the media age, the  busy schedules of families and "life in the fast lane" our children are losing the essence of what builds a strong foundation and gives a Biblical worldview.  How can we incorporate the truths of God's Word into life as we know it in the 21st century?

Memorization is clearly an excellent mental discipline and works wonderfully for learning in young children. It sharpens their minds and prepares them to understand and integrate other truths as their minds begin to expand and work in more complicated ways. Things memorized at a young age are often remembered into old age (2 Timothy 3:15) when newer information is long forgotten.  When memorization is incorporated into music, the right brain as well as the left brain hemispheres are used, making recall even better in later years.

Memorization of positive phrases and thoughts (Psalm 119:103) is a great aid to children who are hurting or suffering in some way.  They can hold onto what is good in their minds (1 Thessalonians 5:21), as they hide the Word in their hearts (Psalm 119:11). Reflecting on Scriptural comfort is a very effective counseling tool for children (Psalm 119:50; Romans
15:4).

The Bible teaches us that we learn line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little (Isaiah 28:10).  We know that children only learn according to the span of their attention.  We also know that presenting information to their various senses increases the probability that they will learn.  Because all children are uniquely created, we should try to understand their learning differences.  Some learn by hearing (auditory) and others by seeing, (visual).  Still, others learn by doing (kinesthetic).  How can we apply what we know from Scripture and what learning principles teach us to create a hunger for God's Word in children?

I LOVE GOD'S WORD originated in teaching my own children Scripture memory from the age of two-years-old.  I found a verse and illustrated it in some way.  Then I added a tune and some action to do while learning the verse.  At our kitchen table when my children were young, we learned and reviewed many verses.  Because God's Word is now hidden in the hearts, they can easily recall those tunes and words many years later. I LOVE GOD'S WORD is patterned  after this method.  It is a flip chart book with pictures, written music (CD recording with and without words) and application to make the Scriptures come alive in their context.  "Bravo!" is a musical adventure note found on each page to accompany the children in their learning.

The flip chart closes to become your child's very own suitcase that he/she can carry wherever they go. Combining effective teaching, fun and music in their own suitcase gives children a joy in learning Scripture memory.  Try it with your children.  It's quick, easy and will yield eternal rewards!