Memorize What Matters: 12 Proven Strategies to Memorize the Bible

by Josh Summers

12 proven strategies to help you memorize the Bible faster and easier! Go beyond the simple "repeat over and over" method of memorizing Bible verses and learn the techniques backed by science and used by memory athletes all over the world.

Sometimes Bible memory can feel like a chore and is especially frustrating when you forget what you spent all that time working on. But what if there was a way to teach your brain better ways to internalize God's Word?

In Memorize What Matters, you'll 5 Types of Bible Discover the different types of Bible memory that go beyond just memorizing an individual Bible verse!The Understanding Pyramid: Avoid the biggest obstacle most memorizers have when it comes to retention by taking advantage of the Understanding Pyramid. 12 Proven Memory True to the title, you'll learn a number of new strategies such as the First-letter method, the Visual Outline method, the Mind palace method, the spaced repetition method and more! Unexpected Get excited about the unexpected benefits of Scripture memory that you can expect after implementing these strategies. Not Just Theory... Practical TipsThe tips and advice offered in Memorize What Matters aren't just theoretical. Josh has practically used the methods in this book to memorize over 10 books of the Bible word-for-word, with the goal of memorizing the entire New Testament.

In addition to this personal experience, he as interviewed over 50 people on the Memorize What Matters podcast to learn the unique ways in which people approach Bible memory. Now you can benefit from this shared body of knowledge to improve your own memory and deepen your understanding of the Word.

Even YOU Can Memorize the Bible!It doesn't matter how young or old you are. It doesn't matter if you think you have a "bad memory." It doesn't even matter if you're a busy parent who rarely has more than 10 minutes in the morning to dedicate to memorization.

Yes, YOU can memorize the Bible, and the strategies explained in this book will give you the confidence and motivation to get started.



About Bible Memory Goal: First launched in 2021 as a YouTube channel, Bible Memory Goal now provides some of the best resources for memorizing Scripture in the form of written content, video resources, a podcast and even an global online community.

Genres: Christian

188 pages, Paperback

Published September 17, 2024

About the author

Josh Summers was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and never considered the idea of writing until he started traveling the world. In 2006, he and his wife set off for an adventure around Asia that aroused a passion for photography, filmography and, of course...writing. Over time, Josh has become known for a unique style of travel writing that is extremely personal, empathetic to the reader and very easy to follow. His blogs and videos reach millions of travelers each year and have inspired countless travelers to venture out beyond their comfort zone.

Reviews

[Josh Summers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm exceptionally biased, but my hope is that you'll enjoy reading this book as much as I enjoyed writing it!

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book on Scripture memory. It has a everal practical applications and it lowers the barriers to entry into memorizing God’s Word.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summers begins his book with his own experience where he realized how important it was to have Scripture within. He was under pressure when no books nor digital devices were available. His spiritual support came from Scripture he had memorized.

But how do we hide Scripture in our hearts? Summers gives a number of creative and practical ways to do that very rewarding task. I prefer visual learning and my favorite technique is the memory or mind palace. But there are many other practical suggestions so there is a technique for each person. He also gives great ideas for reviewing and keeping the verses we have learned in the forefront of our mind. He also suggests celebrating with others with the verses memorized.

There are plenty of resources for Scripture memory beyond this book. QR codes are included leading the reader to Summers' two podcasts on YouTube and other resources.

This is an excellent book full of practical ideas for memorizing passages of the Bible, whether one verse or an entire epistle. I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Matthew Gunia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Josh Summers provides a quick, readable book on memory techniques that one can employ in the memorization of Scripture. Whether the reader is interested in memorizing outlines of Biblical books, individual verses organized by theme, or entire Biblical books, the techniques should prove valuable.

Between the introductory sections and epilogue are twelve chapters, each dedicated to a different technique. Although the theme throughout is to connect with the passage physically, emotionally, and creatively, Summers relates techniques employed by people who have dedicated much time and effort to Scripture memory.

On his part, Summers has become a recognized expert in the niche community of Bible memorizers. He runs a popular YouTube channel and podcast dedicated to the subject. Further, he has interviewed several dozen people who have memorized large chunks of the Bible. Summers, himself, has memorized about half of the entire New Testament.

In all, this is a very practical book for anyone who wants to keep Scripture within his heart and memorize what matters.

[Gorg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a Follower of Jesus Christ and Love reading books related to the catholic faith in my opinion this is the best book I have ever read as it is written from personal experience It Deserves 5 Stars and it also focuses on making memorizing what matters easier since it includes both personal experiences and methods to make memorizing scripture easier I would recommend it to anyone interested in bible memory since it helps make it easier and more approachable thanks to Josh for writing this amazing book and making great content on social media to help encourage people to start memorizing scripture I also recommend following the podcast 'Memorize What Matters' and The Youtube Channel @BibleMemoryGoal where there are more resources helping making bible memory easier and more accessable
I Thank Josh for the great book he made and all the content and resources he does

[Crystal Fillingim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read! The author shares many practical strategies for building scripture memory. I’m looking forward to trying several out in my own scripture memory work. I recommend this book whether you are new or seasoned in memorizing scripture. You are sure to find encouragement and helpful strategies!

[Chorrae Moore-Anbar · Rating 5 out of 5]

So helpful and encouraging!

I am greatly encouraged by Josh’s story! As well, I love all of the memorization techniques and the links to the videos so that you dive deeper into each one. This book is a gold mine!

[Adam Callis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered Summers' online community through my venture this year into Bible memorization, and my connection with the community led me to purchase his new book. Summers gives his personal "why" for Bible memorization, along with other reasons to devote yourself to this practice. I loved his comments about "owning" a passage, and I've experienced that sensation as well. There's nothing like hearing someone read a passage that you've committed to memory. I also loved his point about storing up God's Word for the Spirit to then remind us of. We find ourselves experiencing Spirit-led cross-references and insights suited for the moment.

The practical strategies are great as well. I've particularly benefited from the "first letter" technique.

I think this would be a great book to put in someone's hands as a way of saying, "You can do it! Bible memorization is for everyone."

[Nerdy Biblio · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I loved this book. I knew I would so I bought it on Audible and a physical copy.

There were so many awesome tips and images that Josh described that I need to re-read it using the paperback I have so I can highlight and see the images!

I have been following Josh on YouTube @BibleMemoryGoal for almost 2 years now, after he interview Faith at @HowtoFaithaLife (now @BibleNerdMinistries)
I love his channel and all the people he interviews with all their tips.

I learned some things in this book I had not seen or heard on his channel yet and can't wait to put them to practice!

I had heard on YouTube that he had been in a Chinese jail, but did not know the fuller story, and was happy he included it. This must have been so scary, but it such a testimony to why it is important why we know the Word in our hearts!

[Mary T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am familiar with the author's journey since I have watched many of his Bible Memory Goal videos on YouTube. I was excited to find out that he was writing a book -- distilling much of what he has learned from his dozens of interviews with others on the subject of Scripture memory. Although I'm already well-versed (ha!) in many of the techniques and ideas described, I still found the book useful. And it was compelling -- I read it in one sitting! (I don't necessarily recommend that, though, because it's a lot to take in!). I do wish he had shared more of his own story and experience, but this was less memoir and more practical with some personal stories tied in. A great intro into the why and how of memorizing Scripture!

[Zach Hallead · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book full of practical tips for believers to get the word of God off the pages and into their hearts. It's not just about the "how", but also the "why." Josh shares his own personal journey and challenges the rest of us to do much more than just have a "quiet time", but to truly meditate on the word of God. It is a short, easy read, but a book that you can keep going back to for tools and motivation.

[Dena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars for creativity and looking at Scripture memory from some new angles. While I enjoyed the book, I was more excited to find more in-depth information, an online podcast and community of adults memorizing Scripture. I really didn't know this existed! I felt inspired and encouraged after reading Memorize What Matters.

[Ariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an easy book to dive into. So interesting too! The author writes everything simply and creatively. What a good book to implement for my Bible Memorization. The 12 strategies in the book are something I need to implement in my life. Our brains are incredible with memorizing things.

[Clay Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has helpful every day ways to remember Bible verses using memory techniques. Received a copy of this book in exchange for review.

[Yvonne Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super quick read, reinforces the importance of memorizing Scripture with some practical ways to incorporate Scripture memory into your daily life.

[Pat Berres · Rating 5 out of 5]

really enjoyed this book

It is something that I am truly going to try it will strengthen my goal to learn and live the word of god

[Chris Frost · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a pretty quick read, but chock full of useful ideas for Scripture memorization.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly readable and many ideas to implement!

[Aaron Hand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-written book on an important topic. Very readable and highly recommended!

[Deb]

excellent resource for memory work.

[Mike Petrak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on memorizing the Bible with practical tips and resources and links. Short, clear.

[Jacky Choi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really helpful

i was thinking about memorisation by when i realised that i could barely recite whole sentences and passages from scripture - despite reading through the entire bible in a year for 8 years in a row.

so when i heard a pastor recite ‘for there is one mediator…’ i was even more convinced i needed to get on with it.

i found this book via the youtube channel during a vacation with ample free time. By the time i read this i had rote learned psalm 90, 91, 92 ESV. and i’m glad for something as encouraging and practical as this book

[Marylou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This is a wonderful book if you are interested in memorizing Scripture. It has lots of good tips for you.