Before you begin...
I am happy to share with you a way of Bible memorization that I have enjoyed for over twenty years. Most of the time, whether learning verses with our children or with an adult Sunday school class, we have worked on adding just two verses a week. These small portions of Scripture, memorized in an active way, build together into a whole chapter we get to keep for life.
Sometimes years later, when one cannot necessarily recall the entire passage immediately, they’ll hear a verse from it and then realize that the verses to follow start running through their minds.
This is my goal – that we come away from these seasons of Scripture memory with God’s Word ringing in our hearts and minds, much like a familiar song. Then, when the Holy Spirit wants to lead or teach us from the Word, it is readily accessible.
My thanks to Lauren Edmonds (videographer) and Ben Edmonds (musician) for their partnership in this project.
Isaiah 43:1b-3a
New International Version 1984
These beloved verses remind us of the most repeated command in the Bible: Fear Not. God assures us that in whatever reality we experience, through the rivers and fires, He is with us – always.
1 Thessalonians 2:4-8
New Living Translation
These verses are dear to my heart because verse 8 holds the mission statement of Cadence International, the ministry organization where I grew up and have served most of my life. I have seen these verses lived out through many faithful people over many years. I pray they are true of my life as well.
1 Thessalonians 5:5-8
New Living Translation
This passage brings us back to some of our core identity in Christ. We are children of the Light! I love the rhythmic vibe of these verses, as well as the no-nonsense appeal for us to “be clear-headed!” If someone in your group can do vocal percussion, try adding that as accompaniment to your verses!
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
New Living Translation
This beautiful benediction comes to my mind often – sometimes as a prayer, and sometimes as a promise. God cares about our entire being, our entire life. We can rest in His faithfulness.
Psalm 139
New International Version 1984
This Psalm of David is so comforting and personal. I was in middle school when I memorized Psalm 139 for the first time, and I believe it was centering for me in those adolescent years. Many times since, I have been encouraged by the loving truth of this Psalm: God knows me, created me, understands me, keeps me, guides me, thinks about me, loves me.
Ephesians 6:10-18
New International Version 1984
Paul gives us clear instruction and direction about spiritual warfare in the conclusion to his letter to the church at Ephesus. This passage is timeless and timely, needed and necessary for Christians today. The struggle is real, but so is the armor of God!
Psalm 84
New International Version 1984
This Psalm was originally written as a song to be accompanied by a “gittith” – a very retro guitar. It is sung by a group of people to God, a song of longing and journey, of priorities and paths.
Psalm 46
New International Version 1984
This was the first full chapter of the Bible I taught our children. I wanted them to know when they were very young that no matter what happened in their lives or in this world, God was their ever-present help, refuge, and strength.