Speaking Scripture: How to Memorize and Recite with Purpose and Delight

by Rachel Eernisse

In this little book, Rachel encourages believers to memorize Scripture not as a chore, but as a delight. She has poured into its pages all the wisdom she's gathered over the past dozen years from memorizing and reciting Scripture and teaching others to do the same. Reading this book will equip you to effectively speak the Scriptures to memorize and share."I just returned home from Montana. I had several flights to read your book. It is outstanding! I loved reading it—every page. You explained everything so clearly, and most of all your heart came through. I could sense your desire to include anyone interested but you didn’t put people under the pile. It was such a good balance." Janet Pope, author of "His Word in My Memorizing Scripture for a Closer Walk with God."

"I recently read Rachel’s newest book, Speaking How to Memorize and Recite with Purpose and Delight. I have read numerous books on the topic of Scripture, but I found this one especially helpful. It is an excellent resource for the veteran memorizer who wants to sharpen their skills as well as those wishing to start their journey in Bible memory. A standout in her book is the emphasis on the public recitation of Scripture as the capstone or mark of completion for the memorizer. I highly recommend this work to any interested in the subject." Randy Williamson, Program Administrator at Scripture Memory Fellowship.

Genres: Christianity

147 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 8, 2023

Reviews

[CWRC Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was deeply inspired by Speaking Scripture: How to Memorize and Recite with Purpose and Delight by Rachel Eernisse. This book is a wonderful guide for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with God through Scripture memorization.

Rachel's passion for Scripture shines through on every page, and her practical advice and encouragement is the motivation anyone who is struggling with scripture memorization needs. I loved how she emphasized the joy and delight that comes from speaking Scripture, rather than making it feel like a chore.

What struck me most was Rachel's gentle and non-judgmental approach. She acknowledges that memorization can be challenging, but she offers helpful tips and strategies to make it more accessible. She also shares her own experiences and struggles, making the book feel more like a conversation with a friend than a lecture.

One of the key takeaways for me was the importance of setting a clear purpose for memorizing Scripture. Rachel encourages readers to identify why they want to memorize Scripture, whether it's to grow in faith, overcome anxiety, or share God's Word with others. This purpose-driven approach will help readers to stay focused and motivated.

I also appreciated Rachel's emphasis on the power of recitation. She shows how speaking Scripture out loud can help us to internalize God's Word, recall it more easily, and share it with others more effectively. Her suggestions for reciting Scripture in different contexts, such as in prayer or with friends, were particularly helpful.

Another valuable insight from the book is the importance of community in Scripture memorization. Rachel encourages readers to find a memorization buddy or join a community of like-minded believers to stay accountable and motivated. This reminded me of the value of having a support system in our spiritual journeys.

Lastly, I was reminded of the transformative power of Scripture through Rachel's book. She shares stories of how memorizing Scripture has impacted her own life and the lives of others, and encourages readers to expect similar transformations in their own lives.

I highly recommend Speaking Scripture, to anyone who wants to grow in their faith and experience the transformative power of God's Word. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration, and I'm so grateful to have read it.

[Mary T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so glad I stumbled upon this book! I first discovered it right after I had finished reciting a book of the Bible in front of an audience, and I was interested in learning more about how to potentially set up my own recitation ministry. Although I am not new to Scripture memory, I always enjoy reading others' experiences and adding more "tools" to my toolbox. One of my favorite quotes was that "memorization is an automatic result of repetition over time." The author also used the phrase "delight and invite," reminding us that we are meant to delight in Scripture but also to invite the Holy Spirit to use the words that we've hidden in our hearts. (and recitation doesn't always have to be in front of a crowd -- it can be in your own home or in a small group or one-on-one).

The book is broken into two main parts - Speaking Scripture to Memorize and Speaking Scripture to Share. In the memorization portion, the chapters focus on purpose, perspective, passage memorization, and 3 C's. There's also a mini chapter highlighting 14 memory techniques. In the recitation portion, the chapters are about recitation ministry, keys to living Scripture recitation, and a mini chapter on techniques for effective recitations. I realized the importance of "practicing mistakes" (which the author explains). Every chapter ends with a some illustrations and a helpful summary.

I read this book over the course of a few days and then went back to take notes on some of my favorite parts. I will continue to refer to it as I prepare to take steps forward in my own Scripture memory and recitation journey.

Note: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.