One of the greatest joys of leaders and parents is seeing kids live lives that honor God. A powerful way we can help them on this journey is to teach them to value and memorize Scripture and show them how to put it into action. This is a foundational spiritual discipline that can influence how they make decisions, handle challenges, and grow in their faith. Psalm 119:9-11 speaks directly to the power of Scripture memory:

“How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (NIV)

Let’s use this verse as an example to explore effective strategies for Scripture memory. We’ll look at making Scripture meaningful and memorable for children in your ministry and home.

Step 1: Read the Verse Slowly and Clearly

Some children are new to reading or face learning challenges, so read the verse slowly and clearly. Emphasizing each word helps young learners grasp the flow of the verse, making it easier to memorize.

Step 2: Teach the Meaning of the Verse in Child-Friendly Language

Kids memorize best when they understand the verse’s meaning. Psalm 119:9-11 speaks to keeping one’s life pure by putting God’s Word into action. Talk to children about what it means to “stay on the path of purity.” Use words they understand, like “doing what’s right” and “following God’s way.”

To make this verse relatable, compare God’s commands to a map or set of instructions. Just as a map helps us safely reach our destination, following God’s Word helps us live a life that honors Him. “Hiding God’s Word in their hearts” can be explained as keeping something valuable in a safe place so they can remember it whenever they need it.

Step 3: Explain When and Where to Use the Verse

Kids need practical applications for each verse they memorize. Psalm 119:9-11 can help them when they face temptation. For example, if they’re tempted to lie to a teacher or parent, this verse reminds them that following God’s Word means telling the truth.

Use relatable examples like, “Imagine someone tells you it’s okay to take a toy from a friend without asking or that you should watch something inappropriate on the internet. Remembering God’s Word can help you say, ‘No, that’s not right, and I want to follow God’s ways instead.’” Teach children that applying Scripture takes effort and courage. They may need to make tough choices, but God is with them.

Step 4: Break the Verse into Easy-to-Learn Segments

Long verses can feel overwhelming. Let’s break Psalm 119:9-11 down into smaller parts:

1. “How can a young person stay on the path of purity?”

2. “By living according to your word.”

3. “I seek you with all my heart;”

4. “Do not let me stray from your commands.”

5. “I have hidden your word in my heart”

6. “That I might not sin against you.”

Start by helping kids learn one segment at a time and think about its meaning. Once they are confident, add the next segment. Gradually, they’ll be able to recite the entire verse. Challenge kids to read the verse every night at bedtime and in the morning when they wake to avoid rushed, surface-level memorization.

Step 5: Memorize the Reference

Knowing where to find the verse in the Bible is important. Regularly practice saying, “Psalm 119:9-11.” If possible, connect the numbers to an occasion or use their fingers to represent the verse numbers. The more they repeat it, the better they will recall it.

Step 6: Use Creative Repetition

Memorization is all about repetition, but repeating the same thing over and over can become boring. Make memorization fun with these creative ideas:

• Fill in the blank: Read the verse aloud and let the kids fill in the missing word or phrase.

• Hand motions: Kids love movement! Have them create actions, like placing their hand over their heart when they say, “I have hidden your word in my heart.”

• Songs: Songs are a fantastic way for kids to remember Bible verses. Look for worship songs that include this verse or make up your own tune. Seeds Family Worship is a great resource.

• Write it out: Form the words with Legos, cereal, or even playdough.

Memorizing God’s Word is transformational! What they memorize will guide, encourage, convict, and teach them throughout their lives. As Psalm 119:11 says, knowing Scripture is a powerful way to help kids draw closer to Him and make wise choices. With patience, creativity, and plenty of encouragement, you can help kids hide God’s Word in their hearts forever.

Kris Smoll is the founder and Executive Director of Discovery Land Global, a Sunday morning program that provides curriculum, training, and coaching so your church has a long-term strategy to equip your kids to stand firm. She graduated from Moody Bible Institute and has also led child discipleship at Alliance Church in Appleton, Wisconsin for over 30 years. She is an international speaker, strategic planner, and consultant. She is passionate about kids knowing the Word of God, boldly sharing their faith, and confidently living their lives for Christ. For more information go to: DLGlobal.org