Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

Dear Stephen and all those who respond:

It is such an encouragement to read how others are dedicated to scripture
memory.

The word of God speaks!  The best Christmas present I rec'd last year was the
advice of a humble Christian man to read through my Bible like a storybook.  I
have taken to the task of reading at least 3 chapters every morning since then
and it has literally changed my life!  And I mark up all the passages that I
love and that speaks to me. Sometimes there is more underlined than not.

Now I have started going back to the portions that I want to or have memorized
and am writing a list of those verses so I can actively review and memorize
every week.  So far I have more than 250 verses or full passages that I want to
learn. Sometimes it is hard to find the extra time to devote to scripture memory
but it is so essential (as well as to know the references).  I find it
frustrating when I know of a certain verse in the Bible but cannot find it - it
is so important to have references.  Even though scripture memory is challenging
it is so rewarding and blesses us.

I heard this wonderful story about an elderly woman that someone went to visit.
For most elderly people, they can be lonely and find it hard to fill their time
during the day.  Not this woman.  When she was asked how she was doing she
exclaimed that she was so busy - she knew that she did not have much more time
on earth and wanted to prepare herself for when she meets her Lord and Saviour -
so she was filling her time memorizing all the psalms and memorizing hymns of
old with which she could worship her God.  That's what I want to be like and we
can all start doing that now.  How delighted God is with us when we want to
meditate and memorize His Word.

God's blessings to you all,

Sharon

----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Simpson" 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:44 AM
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


> Greetings to all,
>
>
> There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
> that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
> How's everybody doing?
>
> What are you memorizing?
>
> Any success stories?
>
> Anyone need encouragement?
>
> Stephen Simpson
> List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>

Dear Biblemem List Friends,

I have been lurking here for a long time and thought it time I write.
Memorization came to a grinding halt when a concussion effected my short
term memory in January.  It has take time to heal.   I think it was a
mistake to stop memorizing after the head injury, because I've only begun seeing
improvement since I have returned to scripture.

Stephen, thanks for the encouragement to write.  I hope that you have had good
sucess memorizing scripture. If you need encouragement, we will be there for you
with prayer, emails or whatever.

Stephen, thanks for the encouragement to write!  Please keep proding.

Sincerely,

Jean Whitfield

Deuteronomy 6:6-12 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in
thine heart: 7: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and
shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by
the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 8: And thou shalt
bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between
thine eyes. 9: And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy
gates. 10: And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into
the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to
give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, 11: And houses full
of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou
diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou
shalt have eaten and be full; 12: Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which
brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house

of bondage.

Deuteronomy 11:18-21__Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and
in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be

as frontlets between your eyes. 19: And ye shall teach them your children,
speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by

the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.  20: And thou shalt

write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates:  21: That
your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which
the LORD sware unto your fathers to give them, as the days of heaven upon the
earth.

Joshua 1:8    This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but
thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do
according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way
prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.



>From: "Stephen Simpson"

>Reply-To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>Subject: Biblemem discussion list
>Date: Tue, 12 Aug 2003 10:44:53 -0500
>
>Greetings to all,
>
>
>There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
>that I would see if I can start up a discussion.

Stephen, I have a group of friends who memorize a verse a day from each chapter
of a book of the Bible.  We started in Genesis and in August had a few join us
with the start of Joshua.  (We now have six in our group)  It is a lot of fun
and gives a good overview of the books as well as lets you find and keep special
nuggets of spiritual truth.

We will start Judges on September 1st.  (We start new books at the start of a
month to keep track of the chapters easier in case someone gets behind.)

For October 1st I hope to have a system set up to throw out a national appeal to
see who would want to join us and let them choose between 1 Samuel and Matthew.

Soon I would also like to see groups doing favorite chapters this verse a day
way as well.

Phil Walker

Stephen Simpson  wrote:

       Greetings to all,


       There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
       that I would see if I can start up a discussion.


       How's everybody doing?

       What are you memorizing?

       Any success stories?

       Anyone need encouragement?

       Stephen Simpson
       List Moderator

I've been very busy this summer.  My mother's cancer recurred and we are back on
the chemo roller coaster with her.  She has treatment every three weeks and for
a week feels horrible and for two weeks is pretty normal.  I am also training to
walk a half-marathon in November and a full marathon in February, so the time
I'm not with Mom is spent either on the track or at the gym.

I hate to admit I've fallen off on my memorization, although I was thinking

about it this morning.  I'm contemplating starting to memorize the book of
James.  My support group (one other dear friend, if you can call that a
group!) will start meeting again the Sunday after Labor Day and I think I'll be
able to stay motivated knowing I have someone to be accountable to.  I mean, I
know I'm accountable to God, but someone face to face who is also trying to
memorize His Word.

I hope everyone is well and is having a blessed summer.

Glenda

Stephen Simpson  wrote:

       Greetings to all,


       There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
       that I would see if I can start up a discussion.


       How's everybody doing?

       What are you memorizing?

       Any success stories?

       Anyone need encouragement?

       Stephen Simpson
       List Moderator

Stephen,

Greetings!

Working on John 1 and hope to do the entire Book of John. As most often heard, I
need to take the little bit of time out of the busy daily schedule and stick
with it.

Have a great weekend ahead - Christ's Blessings to you and yours.

Ken Kreis
Rudd, IA





----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Simpson" 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 10:44
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


> Greetings to all,
>
>
> There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
> that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
> How's everybody doing?
>
> What are you memorizing?
>
> Any success stories?
>
> Anyone need encouragement?
>
> Stephen Simpson
> List Moderator
>
>
>
>

Hi Stephen and everybody else!

I'm new to this list and indeed memorizing scripture.

I'm still at the stage of deciding on which technique(s) to use, so any
suggestions would be very welcome.

My goals are as follows:

1) Use a system that will enable me to memorize the entire bible.
2) Be able to recall verse from reference.
3) Be able to recall reference from verse.

Any success stories or hints?

Cheers,

Rob.


-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
Sent: 12 August 2003 16:45
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Biblemem discussion list

Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

Stephen - I've had some really exciting progress over the last few months
memorizing the Sermon on the Mount.  I've completed Matthew 5, and Matthew 6,
and am now working on Matthew 7.  I carry a little Gideon New Testatment in my
car, and work on verses while I'm stopped at traffic lights, etc. It's amazing
how those spare seconds and minutes add up.  And, as funny as this may sound, I
use my morning shower and shave time as my main "block" of review time.  Beats
just looking in the mirror with a blank stare :-)

David H.

-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:45 AM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

> What are you memorizing?

I recently finished learning Revelation, meaning that I know the entire book
when seeing the first chars of each word as a hint. There are so many things
said about this book that noone seems to know what it actually says, because
every time we 'just' read it, we hear the voices of the ones that tried to
explain things to us about this book. Memorizing Revelation is a great way to
objectively look at it. It gives a great insight in what it is about and why it
is written. The book writes to the hearts of those in suppression and tells them
(and
us) that God will revenge; we shouldn't. Most commentaries don't mention this
important theme. The style is interesting too; it is very 'poor'. (Probably like
my english). It is like reading the draft version from John - no polished
language. It sounds very authentic.

I want to memorize some psalms soon. I want to know the examples the Bible
provides us to worship God by heart.

In Christ,
Terry

Steve, Greetings in the Name of the Lord. I have been recieving this discussion
for about a year now. I have been challanged by it. Recently our church went
thru the Navigator's Topical Memory list. I have provided them with verses to
memorize for about 2 years . I have encouraged them to use it for a devotional
or memorize one or two verses a week or go for everyday a verse. That is my
personal goal. I use the initial method that I learned about on this list.So
thank you for providing this .. I feel like a newcomer to all this but I am
determined to memorize. My weakness is review and the discipline to do it. I
have written the verses in a notebook and take it with me to places. I started
out with going thru the alpabet with a verse for each ,then thru R.A. Torrey's
list for personal Workers that I found out about on this discussion so once
again thanks. My is Curt Nies at cnieshelicon.net

----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Simpson" 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:44 AM
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


> Greetings to all,
>
>
> There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
> that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
> How's everybody doing?
>
> What are you memorizing?
>
> Any success stories?
>
> Anyone need encouragement?
>
> Stephen Simpson
> List Moderator
>
>
>
>

Hi!

I have always appreciated hearing how others are committed to (and struggle
with) scripture memory.  I was thrilled to find your group and it has really
helped me to not give up!  It's funny because I know and love the benefits of
memorizing, but it's still a discipline/choice that I struggle to continue to do
on a daily basis.  I pray and ask God to help me with this, but it seems that it
doesn't really get easier.  One of the things I love about scripture memory is
that once a wealth of verses are stored in memory, it's wonderful how truths
"fall together" and connect through scripture. Ultimately, it helps me to have a
deeper understanding of who God is. Anyway, this summer has been rough for me
regarding memorizing, but I'm determined to keep it up.  Thanks for all you do
to help others stay encouraged to memorize!

Carol

----- Original Message -----

From: "Stephen Simpson" 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:44 AM
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


> Greetings to all,
>
>
> There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
> that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
> How's everybody doing?
>
> What are you memorizing?
>
> Any success stories?
>
> Anyone need encouragement?
>
> Stephen Simpson
> List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>

Hi,

The largest "block" of scripture I have memorized is  Isaiah Chapter 6.

I would like to begin memorizing several chapters at a time. My question is, can
a translations wording - i.e. "flow" make memorizing large sections of scripture
easier or more difficult depending on structure? Does the rhyme of the KJV or
NKJV make memoring easier than in the NAS or NIV for example? I'm certainly not
asking which version is better, but am asking if you feel that one's "ebb and
flow" is easier to memorize than another, or, if one paints a better "picture"
than others thereby making memorizing large sections easier? Appreciate any
input. This is my first attempt at 3 or more chapters and I'm a little
overwhelmed at the thought... but really excited to get started!!
:)

thanks much
Beth
----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Simpson" 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 8:44 AM
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


> Greetings to all,
>
>
> There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
> that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
> How's everybody doing?
>
> What are you memorizing?
>
> Any success stories?
>
> Anyone need encouragement?
>
> Stephen Simpson
> List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>

Hi, Stephen Simpson
I live in Brazil and I am memorizing chapter 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the book of
John. I believe that already I memorized chapter 12 of Romans. I am using the
calendar of the email that has tasks and then write or capture the text and
receive as something to be remembered. This has helped me to memorize. I know
many versicles but it did not worry me in memorizing them. Later that I knew
this group I passed to be interested more for the memorization. It is an
excellent experience for my life of communion, education and spreading of the
Word of God. It forgives for my English. I do not have habit to write and I do
not know if I am writing with clarity and understanding In the Peace of God

Neylton

----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Simpson" 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 12:44 PM
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

Hi,

Please be informed of my change in e-mail address.

My new e-mail address is phuti.semenyaarivia.co.za


>>> ssimpsonelmcomputers.com 08/12/03 05:44PM >>>
Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

I have a three year old son and I really want him to start memorizing scripture.
I've found some basic scriptures suggested online for him to do but they're on
coloring sheets. He isn't very interested in coloring so what do you suggest I
do to help him commit the to memory? Read it to him over and over and have him
say it back to me? I'm afraid he'll start to resist eventually because he likes
variety.

Thanks,
Michelle

Rob!

What an awesome goal, to memorize the entire Bible!  Right now, I'm still
learning verses and blocks of verses rather than entire chapters and/or books.
The system I use is a series of index cards with the reference written on one
side and the verse(s) I'm working on on the opposite side. I always say the
reference before and after the verse and I always practice/review the verses I'm
working on aloud.  I have an accountability partner whom I meet with once a week
(okay, we didn't during the summer, but we're starting up again in the next few
weeks) and she prompts me with the reference and sometimes the start of a verse.
 That way I can hear a verse and know the reference or vice versa.  Hope some of
this helps.  Good luck and godspeed in meeting your goal.

Glenda

Robert Harris  wrote:

       Hi Stephen and everybody else!

       I'm new to this list and indeed memorizing scripture.

       I'm still at the stage of deciding on which technique(s) to use, so any
       suggestions would be very welcome.

       My goals are as follows:

       1) Use a system that will enable me to memorize the entire bible.
       2) Be able to recall verse from reference.
       3) Be able to recall reference from verse.

       Any success stories or hints?

       Cheers,

       Rob.


       -----Original Message-----
       From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
       Sent: 12 August 2003 16:45
       To: biblememmemoryverses.org
       Subject: Biblemem discussion list

       Greetings to all,


       There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
       that I would see if I can start up a discussion.


       How's everybody doing?

       What are you memorizing?

       Any success stories?

       Anyone need encouragement?

       Stephen Simpson
       List Moderator




In God's love,
Glenda

Stephen,


Glad you sent the message, centers the focus again.

I face the age old problem of finding time to memorize. Any hints on overcoming
that hurdle? (I know I have to just make time for matters that are eternally
pressing.)

The other problem is having survived a severe closed head injury 10 years ago,
God kept me alive for a reason, I don't see what yet.

Is there a public resource for efrfective memorization?

By His matchless grace,

Stephen McIntosh



-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:45 AM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

to the gal that is training for a marathon..  great time to listen to your
own voice reading scriptures that you want to memorize.   it has been
demonstrated that we remember more if it is heard in our own voices

katie

To everyone,

It has been a wonderful experience for me to see the interest in memorizing as
reflected in the activity on this email site.

I have memorized on and off most of my life but, about February or so of the
year 2000, the Lord challenged me to do it permanently on a long term basis and
so I determined to do exactly that.  It has been one of the most wonderful
experiences of my life!  I don't have a lot of time right at this moment to go
into detail about how I go about it. However, if there is some interest among
you all in knowing a little about my experience, I would be glad to share it
sometime.

The Lord was pretty specific with me about how to go about doing it.  He even
gave me some rules to use as guidelines--rules that were designed to make it an
encouraging activity and not discouraging for me.  And a long time ago He also
warned me not to expect an overnight miracle.  The Lord mentioned to me the fact
that I had spent many years allowing my mind to get into a very undisciplined
state and He told me that it would also take some time to undo all that.

When I started in early Spring of 2000, it really wasn't until I had been
consistent in memorization for probably 6 months or so that I began to be aware
of the fact that a dramatic change was taking place in my thinking habits and my
outlook on life.  Whereas I used to be very negative years ago, the Lord has
used the Scripture I have hidden in my heart to give me a very positive outlook
on life.

By the grace of God, I have now memorized or reviewed (since February of
2000) Colossians 3, Psalms 1, 19, 23, 24, 27, 34, 37, 91, 100, 103, and 121,
Romans 5 through 8, the entire book of Ephesians (that was the first book I ever
memorized in my life!), the entire book of James, and the entire book of I John.
 I also memorized, in Spanish (I'm bilingual), the entire book of II Peter and
the entire book of I John. In addition, I memorized Psalm 119 in Spanish.  I
memorized Psalm 119 because I decided that, if I were able to memorize that one,
the psychological boost (since it's the longest chapter in the Bible) would make
any other chapter in the Bible seem easy by comparison!  Psalm 119 took me from
about February of 2002 to about February of 2003!

Right now, I'm working my way through Hebrews in Spanish (I'm on chapter 3).

I do NOT have a fantastic memory.  What I do have is a deep hunger and love for
God and His Word and I am also persistent--I do not easily give up!
Anybody--ANYBODY can do this.  It's a lot of work, but it's very, very
rewarding.  For me, it is also a symbol of how badly I want the Lord in my life
and how desperately I feel a need for Him!  I feel that my love for Him has
tremendously increased since I started doing this. Truly God rewards those who
truly seek Him.  You will get as much of God in your life as you really desire
when you manifest that desire by seeking Him.  He may delay at first, in order
to prove whether you really mean business or not.  But in the end, He will be
your rich Reward.  It's worth it all!

God bless you all!

Henry A. Digby

Hey, Phil!

Good to hear from you (albeit groupwise).  It sounds like you're working well on
memorization.  May God bless your efforts.

Our Church's regular summer camp went well (three of my kids went for four weeks
and one of my oldest daughter served as ac ounsellor; she says it was a great
blessing for her).  Over 6,000 children participated overall.

Still, I would like to see a camp focused on Scripture, as taht which you
planned.  What can I do to work toward that for nest Summer?

Best wishes,
Jim


>From: Philip Walker 
>Reply-To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>Subject: Re: Biblemem discussion list
>Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2003 12:12:54 -0500
>
>Stephen, I have a group of friends who memorize a verse a day from each
>chapter of a book of the Bible.  We started in Genesis and in August
>had a few join us with the start of Joshua.  (We now have six in our
>group)  It is a lot of fun and gives a good overview of the books as
>well as lets you find and keep special nuggets of spiritual truth.
>
>We will start Judges on September 1st.  (We start new books at the
>start of a month to keep track of the chapters easier in case someone
>gets behind.)
>
>For October 1st I hope to have a system set up to throw out a national
>appeal to see who would want to join us and let them choose between 1
>Samuel and Matthew.
>
>Soon I would also like to see groups doing favorite chapters this verse
>a day way as well.
>
>Phil Walker
>
>Stephen Simpson  wrote:
>
>        Greetings to all,
>
>
>        There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I
>thought
>        that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
>        How's everybody doing?
>
>        What are you memorizing?
>
>        Any success stories?
>
>        Anyone need encouragement?
>
>        Stephen Simpson
>        List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

_________________________________________________________________
The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE*
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail

I memorize at the fitness center when I am on the cross trainer or treadmill. I
am memorizing now more than ever before. Sometimes I do sections (just finished
John Chapter 1), but I prefer to do key verses from a particular book I am
reading. Right now, I am reading less than a chapter per day in Hebrews, and
will pull four or five verses from there over the 30 day period. For this time,
I also read a couple of sermons by CH Spurgeon based out of Hebrews.

This is also sort of like personal history for me, I will look back on the
summer of 2003 as the period I focused on Hebrews. I review all of the verses I
have memorized from time to time just to keep them fresh in my mind.

Terry Portis, Ed.D.
Executive Director

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People
hearingloss.org

Washington, DC Office:
7910 Woodmont Ave, Suite 1200
Bethesda, MD 21702

301-657-2248

-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen McIntosh [mailto:sgmcisurfbest.net]
Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2003 1:47 PM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list

Stephen,


Glad you sent the message, centers the focus again.

I face the age old problem of finding time to memorize. Any hints on overcoming
that hurdle? (I know I have to just make time for matters that are eternally
pressing.)

The other problem is having survived a severe closed head injury 10 years ago,
God kept me alive for a reason, I don't see what yet.

Is there a public resource for efrfective memorization?

By His matchless grace,

Stephen McIntosh



-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:45 AM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

I agree with Glenda about the NKJV. I have tried almost every version and find
it difficult to remember anything other than NKJV. I do not know whether or not
it is I grew up with the KJV or if it because it sounds different or has a
different cadence than other materials I read.

Terry Portis, Ed.D.
Executive Director

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People
hearingloss.org

Washington, DC Office:
7910 Woodmont Ave, Suite 1200
Bethesda, MD 21702

301-657-2248

-----Original Message-----
From: Glenda Poulter [mailto:imtogferyahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2003 1:56 PM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Re: Biblemem discussion list/memorizing large blocks?

Hi, Beth,

I totally understand your question about the "ebb and flow" of one version of
the Bible vs. another one.  My study Bible is NASB, but my memorization Bible is
NKJV, for just the exact reason you mentioned.  I think the NKJV is so much
easier to memorize because of the order in which the words appear.  Just my 2
cents worth!


Glenda

Beth Montgomery  wrote:

Hi,

The largest "block" of scripture I have memorized is Isaiah Chapter 6.

I would like to begin memorizing several chapters at a time. My question is, can
a translations wording - i.e. "flow" make memorizing large sections of scripture
easier or more difficult depending on structure? Does the rhyme of the KJV or
NKJV make memoring easier than in the NAS or NIV for example? I'm certainly not
asking which version is better, but am asking if you feel that one's "ebb and
flow" is easier to memorize than another, or, if one paints a better "picture"
than others thereby making memorizing large sections easier? Appreciate any
input. This is my first attempt at 3 or more chapters and I'm a little
overwhelmed at the thought... but really excited to get started!!
:)

thanks much
Beth
----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Simpson"
To:
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 8:44 AM
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


> Greetings to all,
>
>
> There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I
thought
> that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
> How's everybody doing?
>
> What are you memorizing?
>
> Any success stories?
>
> Anyone need encouragement?
>
> Stephen Simpson
> List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>





In God's love,
Glenda

Hi, Beth,

I totally understand your question about the "ebb and flow" of one version of
the Bible vs. another one.  My study Bible is NASB, but my memorization Bible is
NKJV, for just the exact reason you mentioned.  I think the NKJV is so much
easier to memorize because of the order in which the words appear.  Just my 2
cents worth!


Glenda

Beth Montgomery  wrote:

       Hi,

       The largest "block" of scripture I have memorized is Isaiah Chapter 6.

       I would like to begin memorizing several chapters at a time. My question
       is,
       can a translations wording - i.e. "flow" make memorizing large sections
of
       scripture easier or more difficult depending on structure? Does the rhyme
       of
       the KJV or NKJV make memoring easier than in the NAS or NIV for example?
       I'm
       certainly not asking which version is better, but am asking if you feel
       that
       one's "ebb and flow" is easier to memorize than another, or, if one
paints
       a
       better "picture" than others thereby making memorizing large sections
       easier?
       Appreciate any input. This is my first attempt at 3 or more chapters and
       I'm
       a little overwhelmed at the thought... but really excited to get
started!!
       :)

       thanks much
       Beth
       ----- Original Message -----
       From: "Stephen Simpson"
       To:
       Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 8:44 AM
       Subject: Biblemem discussion list


       > Greetings to all,
       >
       >
       > There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
       > that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
       >
       >
       > How's everybody doing?
       >
       > What are you memorizing?
       >
       > Any success stories?
       >
       > Anyone need encouragement?
       >
       > Stephen Simpson
       > List Moderator
       >
       >
       >
       >
       >





In God's love,
Glenda

Greetings,

I can think of the following points:

- Firstly, do not underestimate the power of a child's memory.  He can probably
memorize more than you think

- You probably do not have to simplify the grammar of the verses, but you will
have to start with short passages.  IE "do unto others as you would have them do
unto you".

- You also need to understand that most children do not know the meaning of many
of the words they hear.  For example if you get them to memorize "Children, obey
your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.", make sure they know
what the word 'obey' actually means. At three years old he probably does not.

- Start very very slowly. We want to establish a habit. A little each day is
important.

- Be fair.  If you memorize "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this
pleases the Lord." make sure that you get them to memorize the next line too.
"Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged." (col
3:20-21).  The child needs to know that the parents are accountable too.

- Make it as important and regular as brushing your teeth or eating lunch.
Therefore you expect and require cooperation.

- Make it fun.  Meaning, the child cannot focus on your repeating it over and
over. That's hard to listen to and boring.  Be creative.  Do fun things.  For
example there was a time when each night I would hide under a blanket with my
son (we each would have a flashlight) and in our tent, we would review our
verses.  Years later, we do it in the car on the way to school.

- Do not let it drop after a few weeks.  Make sure your system adapts to
changing seasons.

- Make it relevant.  Smile.  Do you best to explain why we do this.

- Through the day, bring these verses you have memorized to mind when an
application comes up.  For example, we remind our children to chew with our
mouths closed, to say please and thank you, to wait your turn, to flush the
toilet, to turn off the tap and the lights, that you cannot yell when someone is
on the phone, etc.  We spend half our day doing this sort of thing.  But how
often do we tell our children that when he has done is just like the Bible verse
says, or was just what the Bible says not to do.  So in your daily comings and
goings make sure you teach them why God has said what he has said.


- As for you, make sure that God's word is on your own heart before you try to
impress it on your children.

Consider Deut 6:4-9

Most of these ideas come from this passage:

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:  And thou shalt love the LORD thy
God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all
thy might.   And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in
thine heart:   And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children,
and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest
by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt
bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between
thine eyes. 9  And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy
gates.



Stephen

-----Original Message-----
From: Michelle Kirkland [mailto:mlkirklandyahoo.com]
Sent: August 20, 2003 2:56 PM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: question regarding child memorization


I have a three year old son and I really want him to start memorizing scripture.
I've found some basic scriptures suggested online for him to do but they're on
coloring sheets. He isn't very interested in coloring so what do you suggest I
do to help him commit the to memory? Read it to him over and over and have him
say it back to me? I'm afraid he'll start to resist eventually because he likes
variety.

Thanks,
Michelle

When my kids were that age Scripture song tapes worked great.

Terry Portis, Ed.D.
Executive Director

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People
hearingloss.org

Washington, DC Office:
7910 Woodmont Ave, Suite 1200
Bethesda, MD 21702

301-657-2248

-----Original Message-----
From: Michelle Kirkland [mailto:mlkirklandyahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2003 1:56 PM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: question regarding child memorization

I have a three year old son and I really want him to start memorizing scripture.
I've found some basic scriptures suggested online for him to do but they're on
coloring sheets. He isn't very interested in coloring so what do you suggest I
do to help him commit the to memory? Read it to him over and over and have him
say it back to me? I'm afraid he'll start to resist eventually because he likes
variety.

Thanks,
Michelle

I am very slow, it has taken me two months to memorize the first 20 verses of 1
Peter 1.  My goal is the whole book, I've gotten bogged down the last few weeks.

Deborah

> ----- Original Message -----
>
> From: "Stephen Simpson" 
> To: 
> Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:44 AM
> Subject: Biblemem discussion list
>
>
> > Greetings to all,
> >
> >
> > There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I
> > thought that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
> >
> >
> > How's everybody doing?
> >
> > What are you memorizing?
> >
> > Any success stories?
> >
> > Anyone need encouragement?
> >
> > Stephen Simpson
> > List Moderator
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

The best things I do to involve my three year old in scripture memory are to
involve movement while memorizing (associating the rhythm of the verse with the
rhythm of movement), singing the verses (can also do to already familiar tune
like "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star"), and also working with my/or my daughter's
(6 year old) memory verses aloud.  I was surprised that my 3 year old has ended
up memorizing just by overhearing us working on our verses together!

Have fun,
Carol
----- Original Message -----
From: "Michelle Kirkland" 
To: 
Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2003 2:56 PM
Subject: question regarding child memorization


> I have a three year old son and I really want him to start memorizing
> scripture. I've found some basic scriptures suggested online for him
> to do but they're on coloring sheets. He isn't very interested in
> coloring so what do you suggest I do to help him commit the to memory?
> Read it to him over and over and have him say it back to me? I'm
> afraid he'll start to resist eventually because he likes variety.
>
> Thanks,
> Michelle
>
>
>
>
>
>

For variety I have...

written a word or phrase on a symbol that relates to the verse (we used ants
marching up a hill for the Proverbs passage on ants)  Even if they can't read
they still love the visual and following along with their finger or hand (our
ants were huge and crawled along the dining room wall).

clapped a rythm for the verse as we said it.  This is great with little ones,
the rythm pattern helps them if they are auditory learners.

jumped, danced, kicked our feet, marched, spun, and even wrote it on the
driveway and played follow the leader on it, while reciting it.

you get bored with these ideas holler.

Your servant,
Betsey

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do." Proverbs
4:23


>-----Original Message-----
>I have a three year old son and I really want him to start memorizing
>scripture. I've found some basic scriptures suggested online for him to
>do but they're on coloring sheets. He isn't very interested in coloring
>so what do you suggest I do to help him commit the to memory? Read it
>to him over and over and have him say it back to me? I'm afraid he'll
>start to resist eventually because he likes variety.
>
>Thanks,
>Michelle

_________________________________________________________________
Get MSN 8 and help protect your children with advanced parental controls.
 http://join.msn.com/?page=features/parental

Michelle I have hundreds of scripture songs I've set to music. Many are basic
tunes such as Happy Birthday, Mary Had A Little Lamb, Amazing Grace, and others.
I've got oodles ifyou think it might be something he'd like to go for. Let me
know!



P.S. They are all KJV so you'd hve to modify them for other Bible versions. OT &
NT verses.

Michelle Kirkland wrote:

>I have a three year old son and I really want him to start memorizing
>scripture. I've found some basic scriptures suggested online for him to
>do but they're on coloring sheets. He isn't very interested in coloring
>so what do you suggest I do to help him commit the to memory? Read it
>to him over and over and have him say it back to me? I'm afraid he'll
>start to resist eventually because he likes variety.
>
>Thanks,
>Michelle
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

That makes a lot of sense. Thanks Glenda and Terry for your input :). I'm trying
to memorize Rom ch10 in the NKJV right now. I've memorized from so many
different translations I feel like a mutt or heinz 57!  I really need to narrow
it to only one and concentrate on that.

thanks again for your help :)
Beth

Thank you both for your suggestions on how I can help my 3 yr old memorize
scripture.  I've been printing out coloring pages from the 'net with the verses
on them so he's go a picture to look at while we say the verse together. He
doesn't like to color anymore but at least he's got the images on there.  So far
he's cooperated with repeating it with me.  I've incorporated it with his
"school" (a very informal version of pre-school homeschool) so it's already part
of his sit-down school time.  We say the verse, go over a shape, say the verse,
go over a letter, say the verse again, go over a number and say the verse again
and then school's done. Fifteen minutes of "school" is about all I can ask of
him right now. Apparently it's just the right time because he doesn't get antsy
before it's over.  Anyway, we say it throughout the day at other times but I
haven't had to stand on my head yet.  Thanks again!!!!

Michelle

Henry,

I'd like to hear more about your experience.

Just a little about my experience:

I started memorizing Scripture about 12 years through the encouraging example of
my wife and have since memorized numerous passages the main ones being the
Sermon on the Mount, Romans 6-8, Proverbs 1-9, and Ecclesiastes.  I'm currently
working on the book of Acts (I'm on chapter 4).

I struggled until June of 2002 with retaining Scripture in long term memory.  I
would memorize a chapter word perfect and then move on to the next chapter.
Unfortunately, after a month or so I'd return to that first chapter only to find
my memory had grown quite rusty.  Now I've discovered the existence of flashcard
software which has helped tremendously.  You can find a fairly extensive use of
such software at http://webs.ono.com/usr032/learners/flash.htm.  Personally, I
use Supermemo and am quite pleased with it though I must warn you that it comes
with a learning curve.  There are also several programs out there geared solely
to Scripture; e.g., Stephen's application.

In Christ,

David Baldwin

-----Original Message-----
From: Henry Digby [mailto:hadigbyworldnet.att.net]
Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2003 1:47 PM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Re: Biblemem discussion list

To everyone,

It has been a wonderful experience for me to see the interest in memorizing as
reflected in the activity on this email site.

I have memorized on and off most of my life but, about February or so of the
year 2000, the Lord challenged me to do it permanently on a long term basis and
so I determined to do exactly that.  It has been one of the most wonderful
experiences of my life!  I don't have a lot of time right at this moment to go
into detail about how I go about it. However, if there is some interest among
you all in knowing a little about my experience, I would be glad to share it
sometime.

The Lord was pretty specific with me about how to go about doing it.  He even
gave me some rules to use as guidelines--rules that were designed to make it an
encouraging activity and not discouraging for me.  And a long time ago He also
warned me not to expect an overnight miracle.  The Lord mentioned to me the fact
that I had spent many years allowing my mind to get into a very undisciplined
state and He told me that it would also take some time to undo all that.

When I started in early Spring of 2000, it really wasn't until I had been
consistent in memorization for probably 6 months or so that I began to be aware
of the fact that a dramatic change was taking place in my thinking habits and my
outlook on life.  Whereas I used to be very negative years ago, the Lord has
used the Scripture I have hidden in my heart to give me a very positive outlook
on life.

By the grace of God, I have now memorized or reviewed (since February of
2000) Colossians 3, Psalms 1, 19, 23, 24, 27, 34, 37, 91, 100, 103, and 121,
Romans 5 through 8, the entire book of Ephesians (that was the first book I ever
memorized in my life!), the entire book of James, and the entire book of I John.
 I also memorized, in Spanish (I'm bilingual), the entire book of II Peter and
the entire book of I John. In addition, I memorized Psalm 119 in Spanish.  I
memorized Psalm 119 because I decided that, if I were able to memorize that one,
the psychological boost (since it's the longest chapter in the Bible) would make
any other chapter in the Bible seem easy by comparison!  Psalm 119 took me from
about February of 2002 to about February of 2003!

Right now, I'm working my way through Hebrews in Spanish (I'm on chapter 3).

I do NOT have a fantastic memory.  What I do have is a deep hunger and love for
God and His Word and I am also persistent--I do not easily give up!
Anybody--ANYBODY can do this.  It's a lot of work, but it's very, very
rewarding.  For me, it is also a symbol of how badly I want the Lord in my life
and how desperately I feel a need for Him!  I feel that my love for Him has
tremendously increased since I started doing this. Truly God rewards those who
truly seek Him.  You will get as much of God in your life as you really desire
when you manifest that desire by seeking Him.  He may delay at first, in order
to prove whether you really mean business or not.  But in the end, He will be
your rich Reward.  It's worth it all!

God bless you all!

Henry A. Digby

Hi Glenda,

Thanks for your advice and words of encouragement - it really helps to see which
methods other people are finding helpful.

I've completed my research into the various mnemonic techniques out there and
have come up with a method which is a combination of the more popular ones -
whether it works or not is anybodies guess but I'm going to give it a try and
find out.

>From what I've found out our memory seems to be based on associations -
i.e. I remember something new by linking it to something I already know and when
I want to recall that new thing I remember it by first remembering the
association. In a way, the association or link between two things acts like a
trigger enabling us to recall the memory. This also happens to explain why
experiencing a random smell or sound etc. instantly brings back detailed
memories from our past - the smell or sound was strongly associated with those
memories at the time they were first formed.

We also find it much easier to remember things that are extremely
strange/funny/bizarre/unusual - such as pink elephants - and unlike most aspects
of our mind (movement, problem solving, creativity, etc.) which seem to be
controlled by specific parts of the brain, memory seems to involve all areas of
the brain - and as such we remember things better if what we're trying to
remember involves all these areas (i.e. imagine a scene (sight) involving an
action (movement) generating a sound and a smell).

Our brains also seem to be really good at remembering sequences of associations
(one memory triggering another memory which itself triggers another memory etc).
For example, if I were to ask you how to get to work you'd probably start off by
remembering your home, then getting into your car, then the first road you turn
onto, then the pub you take a left at, etc, etc. People who remember whole packs
of cards usually do so by associating each card with places they pass on the way
to work (so to remember a whole pack you need to pass 52 places on the way to
work!).

So that takes care of remembering the actual text of a verse. All I need to do
is pick out a few key words to act as triggers and create a bizarre/story scene
out of these words - I don't need to worry too much about remembering the verse
word for word as my brain will do this automatically.

But how to I remember the reference (i.e. 2 Timothy 2:15)?

Well, there's a very well established method for turning numbers into words
called the Major System (see
http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTIM_07.htm). Basically this system
works by replacing each occurrence of the numbers 0 - 9 with a sound and then
forming words from these sounds. For example the number 5 is represented by the
sound l (as in light) so the number 55 would be represented by two l sounds.
Think of a word containing two l sounds (vowel sounds can be ignored) and you
might come up with lilo. So the number 55 can be represented by a bright yellow
lilo etc. It takes a bit of getting use to at first but soon becomes very easy
(and quite fun).


A real example:


This is how I will try to remember the whole bible....

Let's say I want to remember the following verse (one of my favorites):

2 Timothy 2:15
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved; a workman who does not
need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." (NIV)

2 Timothy is the 55th book in the bible so I need to memorise the numbers
55:2:15. Using the Major System these numbers can be represented by the words
lilo:noah:tail.

Imagine: A bright yellow lilo floats peacefully on a wide blue ocean. Balancing
very badly on top of this lilo is Noah (probably prefers arks!). Part of his
problem with balancing is simply that he's an old man trying to stand up on a
somewhat over inflated yellow lilo, but the rest of the problem is down to the
bizarre fact that he has a huge brown bushy tail protruding from his backside!

That's the reference memorized, now the verse itself...

I'd choose several key words/groups of words from the passage and turn them into
a story involving the scene I used to memorise the reference:

"present yourself to God"
"approved"
"does not need to be ashamed"
"handles the word of truth"

Imagine: All of a sudden the sky darkens and the once calm sea becomes rough! A
bright light can be seen in the distance, so bright in fact that it seems light
up most of the sky. Noah studies this light for a moment before recognising it
as God standing on the sea shore. By thought alone Noah commands the lilo to
move towards God. As the lilo picks up speed Noah looks down at his hands and
studies the small wooden object he's holding. It's a very detailed wooden
calving of himself with the word APPROVED followed by (does not need to be
ashamed) engraved in its back. The small wooden hands appear to be holding
something. It's a very small paper scroll. Noah takes the scroll and opens it up
- it reads "the word of truth".

As you can see, it takes a bit of time and effort to think up the stories
(essentially one for each verse you want to remember) but once done it is then
possible to recall the verse from the reference or the reference from the verse
extremely quickly. And the best thing of all: you only have to go through this
process once (and perhaps review it once a year or so) to be able to memorise
the verse - which of course saves a lot of time!


I'll keep the board in formed on how I get on (and if this method works).

I'd love to hear and comments/suggested improvements to this method if anyone
has them - I like the idea of having an accountability partner for example.

Good luck and God Bless,

Rob




















God Bless,

Rob


-----Original Message-----
From: Glenda Poulter [mailto:imtogferyahoo.com]
Sent: 20 August 2003 19:56
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list

Rob!

What an awesome goal, to memorize the entire Bible!  Right now, I'm still
learning verses and blocks of verses rather than entire chapters and/or books.
The system I use is a series of index cards with the reference written on one
side and the verse(s) I'm working on on the opposite side. I always say the
reference before and after the verse and I always practice/review the verses I'm
working on aloud.  I have an accountability partner whom I meet with once a week
(okay, we didn't during the summer, but we're starting up again in the next few
weeks) and she prompts me with the reference and sometimes the start of a verse.
 That way I can hear a verse and know the reference or vice versa.  Hope some of
this helps.  Good luck and godspeed in meeting your goal.

Glenda

Hi Stephen,

I've found the following website very useful - it details several popular
techniques for improving your memory (and from my simple experiments they all
work very well):

http://www.mindtools.com/pages/main/newMN_TIM.htm

I'm designing a system specifically for remembering scripture that is a
combination of several of the methods described in the above link. Whether is
works or not only time will tell but I keep the board informed of my progress!

God Bless

Rob

-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen McIntosh [mailto:sgmcisurfbest.net]
Sent: 20 August 2003 19:47
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list

Stephen,


Glad you sent the message, centers the focus again.

I face the age old problem of finding time to memorize. Any hints on overcoming
that hurdle? (I know I have to just make time for matters that are eternally
pressing.)

The other problem is having survived a severe closed head injury 10 years ago,
God kept me alive for a reason, I don't see what yet.

Is there a public resource for efrfective memorization?

By His matchless grace,

Stephen McIntosh



-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:45 AM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: Biblemem discussion list


Greetings to all,


There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought that I
would see if I can start up a discussion.


How's everybody doing?

What are you memorizing?

Any success stories?

Anyone need encouragement?

Stephen Simpson
List Moderator

Hi David and everyone at the discussion list!

I wonder, David Huff, if you have any good tip about memorizing the Sermon on
the Mount. I'd like to do that. Maybe there's someone out there who wants to
coach me in memorizing. You're welcome to.

Blessings!
Daniel from Sweden.


>From: "David Huff" 
>Reply-To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list
>Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2003 11:41:32 -0500
>
>Stephen - I've had some really exciting progress over the last few
>months memorizing the Sermon on the Mount.  I've completed Matthew 5,
>and Matthew 6, and am now working on Matthew 7.  I carry a little
>Gideon New
Testatment
>in my car, and work on verses while I'm stopped at traffic lights, etc.
>It's amazing how those spare seconds and minutes add up.  And, as funny
>as this may sound, I use my morning shower and shave time as my main
>"block" of review time.  Beats just looking in the mirror with a blank
>stare :-)
>
>David H.
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
>Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:45 AM
>To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>Subject: Biblemem discussion list
>
>
>Greetings to all,
>
>
>There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
>that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
>How's everybody doing?
>
>What are you memorizing?
>
>Any success stories?
>
>Anyone need encouragement?
>
>Stephen Simpson
>List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

_________________________________________________________________
Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*.
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail

Does anybody have any experiences/information/ideas to share regarding combining
Scripture memory with other spiritual disciplines?  Certainly it can be a
wonderful experience praying over Scripture one has memorized.  For me of
particular interest would be thoughts regarding periods of fasting while praying
and meditating on Scripture.

What a wonderful idea!  Thank you so much!  I don't own a walkman right now, but
I plan on buying one, soon now!  I will record myself quoting the Scriptures I'm
working on and listen to them.  Not only a good way to continue to memorize, but
also motivational!  Bless you for sharing!

Glenda

SongsofGraceaol.com wrote:

to the gal that is training for a marathon.. great time to listen to your own
voice reading scriptures that you want to memorize. it has been demonstrated
that we remember more if it is heard in our own voices

katie


In God's love,
Glenda

For the first time this year I spent a whole weekend fasting and devoted my time
to reading scripture, memorizing, and prayer.  It is amazing how much more acute
all other senses become when one function is deprived.  I also received more
revelation regarding God's Word and His Will for my life during that time of
fasting - I had no idea that that would happen so clearly.

I ideally would like to fast for 24 hours at least once per month.  Often I will
work on a theme - forgiveness, properity, God's promises (whatever God has laid
on my heart at the time). I will search through scripture on those topics, pray
those verses, and memorize verses that have especially had an impact on me.  God
reveals so much when we seek Him through His Word.  From the time that I started
doing this, I have seen such a change in my spiritual growth.  I often think of
Jesus when he was in the wilderness fasting.  He stated that man cannot live on
bread alone but on God's word. Jesus' example is always the best example to
follow if we want to overcome the challenges we face, be equipped for the
ministry to which God is calling us, etc.

This has been an awesome experience for me.

Sharon

----- Original Message -----
From: 
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, August 26, 2003 10:51 AM
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list


> Does anybody have any experiences/information/ideas to share regarding
> combining Scripture memory with other spiritual disciplines?
> Certainly it can be a wonderful experience praying over Scripture one
> has memorized.  For me of particular interest would be thoughts
> regarding periods of fasting while praying and meditating on
> Scripture.
>
>
>
>
>

Great to hear from you, Daniel.  In fact, I just completed the Sermon on the
Mount, and am now working on the book of James!  As far as tips, I can only
share what has worked well for me, and am happy to do so.  I try to work on a
new verse each day -- some days, I'd be "stuck" on the same verse, other days
I'd get two or even three learned -- just depending on my schedule, etc.  What
helped me the most was the daily review, which I'd do (and still
do) in the morning, while going through the routine of getting ready for the
day.

Also, as you begin to learn this passage, you'll gain a new appreciation for the
logic and outline that Jesus used as He taught (Chapter 5, with His various
references to the Law, Chapter 6, where He teaches about our heart attitude
toward prayer, fasting, giving, etc., and Chapter 7, about the importance of
spiritual fruit and obedience in our lives).  The pattern and repetition of
principles was a great help to me in learning this passage. Ask the Lord to help
you with consistency, since He's already given you the desire to memorize.  I
truly believe consistency is the key!

Finally, let me recommend a great book on the subject: "His Word In My Heart",
by Janet Pope (published by Moody).  I've recently become acquainted with Janet,
and hope to have her speak at our church soon.  She has memorized over ninety
chapters of Scripture, and has a very powerful and practical testimony.

God Bless,
David

-----Original Message-----
From: Daniel Andersson [mailto:snaredrrrumhotmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 26, 2003 10:52 AM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list


Hi David and everyone at the discussion list!

I wonder, David Huff, if you have any good tip about memorizing the Sermon on
the Mount. I'd like to do that. Maybe there's someone out there who wants to
coach me in memorizing. You're welcome to.

Blessings!
Daniel from Sweden.


>From: "David Huff" 
>Reply-To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list
>Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2003 11:41:32 -0500
>
>Stephen - I've had some really exciting progress over the last few
>months memorizing the Sermon on the Mount.  I've completed Matthew 5,
>and Matthew 6, and am now working on Matthew 7.  I carry a little
>Gideon New
Testatment
>in my car, and work on verses while I'm stopped at traffic lights, etc.
>It's amazing how those spare seconds and minutes add up.  And, as funny
>as this may sound, I use my morning shower and shave time as my main
>"block" of review time.  Beats just looking in the mirror with a blank
>stare :-)
>
>David H.
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: Stephen Simpson [mailto:ssimpsonelmcomputers.com]
>Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2003 11:45 AM
>To: biblememmemoryverses.org
>Subject: Biblemem discussion list
>
>
>Greetings to all,
>
>
>There has been no activity on the list for such a long time I thought
>that I would see if I can start up a discussion.
>
>
>How's everybody doing?
>
>What are you memorizing?
>
>Any success stories?
>
>Anyone need encouragement?
>
>Stephen Simpson
>List Moderator
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

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Hi everyone,
This is Stephanie from Australia, and I'm just getting started in this whole
memorizing scripture thing. I'd tried before with not much luck... I'd like to
know if anyone has some ideas of good passages to start learning, and maybe how
to go about it. I'm a musician, a singer and pianist, and compose, so I'll
probably set verses to music. Thanks for any help. Steph

Hello to everyone,  My name is Lucille and this is my first time here. I am
needing some ideas of helping a 11 year old mem. scriptures. We have been
putting it off for a while but we are ready to get started. Does anyone know of
any game or method to use? What about scriptures to start with? He is a smart
child but has ADD, so need some type of method he can stay with.

Thanks for any  suggestions!

Rob,

Good to hear the sharing. I have just started very similar scheme on my own a
few months ago and already I am seeing huge improvement compared my previous
experience in SM. So really good to hear someone out there having similar
pursuit.

I have found that combining the Major system with Supermemo
(http://www.super-memo.com/supforpalpil.html) on my Palm really helps.

Cheers,

Victor

-----Original Message-----
From: Robert Harris [mailto:rob.harrisi-solutionsglobal.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 26, 2003 10:52 PM
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list


Hi Glenda,

Thanks for your advice and words of encouragement - it really helps to see which
methods other people are finding helpful.

I've completed my research into the various mnemonic techniques out there and
have come up with a method which is a combination of the more popular ones -
whether it works or not is anybodies guess but I'm going to give it a try and
find out.

>From what I've found out our memory seems to be based on associations -
i.e. I remember something new by linking it to something I already know and when
I want to recall that new thing I remember it by first remembering the
association. In a way, the association or link between two things acts like a
trigger enabling us to recall the memory. This also happens to explain why
experiencing a random smell or sound etc. instantly brings back detailed
memories from our past - the smell or sound was strongly associated with those
memories at the time they were first formed.

We also find it much easier to remember things that are extremely
strange/funny/bizarre/unusual - such as pink elephants - and unlike most aspects
of our mind (movement, problem solving, creativity, etc.) which seem to be
controlled by specific parts of the brain, memory seems to involve all areas of
the brain - and as such we remember things better if what we're trying to
remember involves all these areas (i.e. imagine a scene (sight) involving an
action (movement) generating a sound and a smell).

Our brains also seem to be really good at remembering sequences of associations
(one memory triggering another memory which itself triggers another memory etc).
For example, if I were to ask you how to get to work you'd probably start off by
remembering your home, then getting into your car, then the first road you turn
onto, then the pub you take a left at, etc, etc. People who remember whole packs
of cards usually do so by associating each card with places they pass on the way
to work (so to remember a whole pack you need to pass 52 places on the way to
work!).

So that takes care of remembering the actual text of a verse. All I need to do
is pick out a few key words to act as triggers and create a bizarre/story scene
out of these words - I don't need to worry too much about remembering the verse
word for word as my brain will do this automatically.

But how to I remember the reference (i.e. 2 Timothy 2:15)?

Well, there's a very well established method for turning numbers into words
called the Major System (see
http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTIM_07.htm). Basically this system
works by replacing each occurrence of the numbers 0 - 9 with a sound and then
forming words from these sounds. For example the number 5 is represented by the
sound l (as in light) so the number 55 would be represented by two l sounds.
Think of a word containing two l sounds (vowel sounds can be ignored) and you
might come up with lilo. So the number 55 can be represented by a bright yellow
lilo etc. It takes a bit of getting use to at first but soon becomes very easy
(and quite fun).


A real example:


This is how I will try to remember the whole bible....

Let's say I want to remember the following verse (one of my favorites):

2 Timothy 2:15
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved; a workman who does not
need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." (NIV)

2 Timothy is the 55th book in the bible so I need to memorise the numbers
55:2:15. Using the Major System these numbers can be represented by the words
lilo:noah:tail.

Imagine: A bright yellow lilo floats peacefully on a wide blue ocean. Balancing
very badly on top of this lilo is Noah (probably prefers arks!). Part of his
problem with balancing is simply that he's an old man trying to stand up on a
somewhat over inflated yellow lilo, but the rest of the problem is down to the
bizarre fact that he has a huge brown bushy tail protruding from his backside!

That's the reference memorized, now the verse itself...

I'd choose several key words/groups of words from the passage and turn them into
a story involving the scene I used to memorise the reference:

"present yourself to God"
"approved"
"does not need to be ashamed"
"handles the word of truth"

Imagine: All of a sudden the sky darkens and the once calm sea becomes rough! A
bright light can be seen in the distance, so bright in fact that it seems light
up most of the sky. Noah studies this light for a moment before recognising it
as God standing on the sea shore. By thought alone Noah commands the lilo to
move towards God. As the lilo picks up speed Noah looks down at his hands and
studies the small wooden object he's holding. It's a very detailed wooden
calving of himself with the word APPROVED followed by (does not need to be
ashamed) engraved in its back. The small wooden hands appear to be holding
something. It's a very small paper scroll. Noah takes the scroll and opens it up
- it reads "the word of truth".

As you can see, it takes a bit of time and effort to think up the stories
(essentially one for each verse you want to remember) but once done it is then
possible to recall the verse from the reference or the reference from the verse
extremely quickly. And the best thing of all: you only have to go through this
process once (and perhaps review it once a year or so) to be able to memorise
the verse - which of course saves a lot of time!


I'll keep the board in formed on how I get on (and if this method works).

I'd love to hear and comments/suggested improvements to this method if anyone
has them - I like the idea of having an accountability partner for example.

Good luck and God Bless,

Rob




















God Bless,

Rob


-----Original Message-----
From: Glenda Poulter [mailto:imtogferyahoo.com]
Sent: 20 August 2003 19:56
To: biblememmemoryverses.org
Subject: RE: Biblemem discussion list

Rob!

What an awesome goal, to memorize the entire Bible!  Right now, I'm still
learning verses and blocks of verses rather than entire chapters and/or books.
The system I use is a series of index cards with the reference written on one
side and the verse(s) I'm working on on the opposite side. I always say the
reference before and after the verse and I always practice/review the verses I'm
working on aloud.  I have an accountability partner whom I meet with once a week
(okay, we didn't during the summer, but we're starting up again in the next few
weeks) and she prompts me with the reference and sometimes the start of a verse.
 That way I can hear a verse and know the reference or vice versa.  Hope some of
this helps.  Good luck and godspeed in meeting your goal.

Glenda

My review is absolutely easier, sharper, and more deeply meditative during my
extended fasts (3+ days) than otherwise. At 8/26/2003 07:51 AM, you wrote:

>Does anybody have any experiences/information/ideas to share regarding
>combining Scripture memory with other spiritual disciplines?  Certainly
>it can be a wonderful experience praying over Scripture one has
>memorized.  For me of particular interest would be thoughts regarding
>periods of fasting while praying and meditating on Scripture.

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Email

>what method did you use to keep
>track of the verses when you had more than 70 to 80 (and this would be
>without using a computer to keep track of them)

Stephanie,

I've memorized something like 150 verses, and I use a method for reviewing them
that I believe I read in a book years ago, but can't remember who to credit it
to.

My verses are all on 3 by 5 index cards, and I have a box made to hold many of
these, with dividers for all the months of the year, and dividers for two months
worth of days (1 - 31).  When I review a verse, depending on how well I know it,
I put it behind the next date that I would like to review it. When I know a
verse well enough to only have to review it once a week, I put a little W in the
upper left-hand corner of the card and after reviewing it, place it behind the
date one week later.  The least frequently I review verses is every two months,
the ones I know really well, and I have "M2" written on those cards.

This may sound complicated, but in truth, it is a very simple system that allows
me to not have to review every single verse each day.

Barb

Hello!

I just joined the list. What I had found useful was a class by Moody Bible
Institute (800-356-6639) at www.moody.edu called Memorize the Word.  Their
"distance learning" courses are relatively inexpensive (around $30-40) and it
has a lot of what a person needs  - they give you a study book, supply you with
the verses to memorize, and you take tests about the verses and in what
situations would this or that particular verse be applicable or useful - I
recommend it.

My problem was that I ended up with a lot of verses, and then reviewing them
gets to be a bit difficult - I had at least 80-100 verses.  And eventually I got
busy with other things, and ended up letting the memorization slide (this was
after I had done the class).  I still think the class is good and might even
re-take it, just to get the accountability.

What I would like to know is, what's the most individual verses with references
that anyone has memorized, and what method did you use to keep track of the
verses when you had more than 70 to 80 (and this would be without using a
computer to keep track of them)

Stephanie  wrote:

       Hi everyone,
       This is Stephanie from Australia, and I'm just getting started in this
       whole memorizing scripture thing. I'd tried before with not much luck...
       I'd like to know if anyone has some ideas of good passages to start
       learning, and maybe how to go about it. I'm a musician, a singer and
       pianist, and compose, so I'll probably set verses to music.
       Thanks for any help.
       Steph





--Eileen
dustbearyahoo.com

There is probably no better way to memorize than to compose scripture songs.
You'll probably be able to quote the text before the song is finished.

But since it is probably time-consuming, you will not be able to get an overall
idea of longer passages. You can compensate that by using this
technique:
I use an audio-bible (you can also read the texts aloud yourself; you probably
have a nicer voice than me) and I divide the texts into sessions of about 15
minutes. Then I mix these sessions with some slow music with an obvious rhythm
but without drums (so the largo's and andante's of instrumental baroque are
usually great for this purpose). I listen to these sessions using a scheme with
more frequent repetitions for each session when just starting, and when a
session becomes more familiar I listen to it less frequent. This way you will
not be able to recall the whole text literally, but it is so helpful. It sure
got me started and I still use this technique. Memorization is so easy when you
heard a text several times this way...

Terry

Stephanie heeft op donderdag, 28 aug 2003 om 19:22 (Europe/Amsterdam) het
volgende geschreven:

> Hi everyone,
> This is Stephanie from Australia, and I'm just getting started in this
> whole memorizing scripture thing. I'd tried before with not much
> luck... I'd like to know if anyone has some ideas of good passages to
> start learning, and maybe how to go about it. I'm a musician, a singer
> and pianist, and compose, so I'll probably set verses to music.
> Thanks for any help.
> Steph

I don't know if this helps or not, but the way I first
learned was this: In sunday school, the teacher broke
down the verse in individual words, (today I use
phrases) and then we all would go over the verse piece
by piece.

Nowadays, this is how I memorize all the verses I've
learned. I handwrite out the verse. It helps to
handwrite it out than using a typewriter, because you
remember it better, at least I do.

I leave adequate spaces so that when I'm done I can
cut it out making it as big as I want. Then I read it
over in the bible. Then I lay out all the pieces and
put it together like a puzzle. The first few times, I
"cheat" and look it up in the Bible, after awhile, I
can put it all together without looking. Doing this a
few times a day and the verse is memorized.

When I close my eyes I can see the verses in my head
while putting it together.

Hope this helps!

Noel