Memorizing Scripture
I have just begun using a method I'm calling Word Walk to memorize scripture. I have found that I first need to read and reread (about 5 x) the scripture I have chosen. I pick the scripture prior to my walk/run time. If need be, I take the written scripture and carry it so I can refer to it. I like to make sure I get the wording exact.
Memorizing the scripture while walking soon turns to meditating on the scripture. Like I said, I have just begun doing this but I think it is something I can maintain! I try to walk/run 5 days a week. So even if I only memorize 1 verse per week that is 52 scriptures in a year! I can be happy with that.
Relax & Focus
Maybe it is the fresh air and movement that helps me concentrate. Focusing seems easier to me when I am outside without the distractions of my interior world. By distractions, I mean all of the dailies (homekeeping tasks) waiting on me. Perhaps it is simply the guilt free indulgence of combining 2 activities that are good for me that helps me relax and focus.
A Clue?
There is a specialized type of Jewish prayer called "davening" that may also be a key to why this method of memorization and meditation is working for me.
If interested, I'll share more about "davening" in another post. It goes back to King David's time!
Walk & Talk
I have shared before how I like to take a Walk & Talk. Word Walk is another aspect of that but with the purpose of memorizing the Word of the One with whom I talk...when I walk.
A Visual Learner
Being a visual learner, I have found that I need to see things first to learn and especially for memorization. I used to be in a performance choir and have also directed adult choirs as well as kids' choirs. Now, happily, I am just a choir member. I never learn music well unless I can see the actual notes and words. If a director gives out CD's for us to listen and learn, I can have every good intention of listening to it but I always get lost in my own thoughts and don't really even "hear" the music! But if I take the actual sheet music home and "read" through it a few times I can remember how the words and notes look on the page ~ the "thirds" the "naturals" the "oooh's & aaaah's" ~ a much easier way for me to learn new music.
Repetitive Movement
Now back to Word Walk. It seems the repetitive movement (kinesthetic) facilitates my visual learning style. I am so excited to have put these two things together because it has always been a challenge for me to memorize scripture.
Tips?
If you have a tip that has helped you memorize scripture, please share it in a comment. Even if it doesn't work with my learning style, perhaps it will help someone else.
Take the Quiz
If you need help identifying your learning style, click on this link and take a quiz.
When you are on the site, scroll down and click on "the learning styles quiz." The quiz takes about 7 minutes. You can submit it and get your results back right away.
