Now I broach a subject we all dread. Sunday School teachers, pastors, youth leaders, conference and revival speakers all emphasize the importance of Scripture memory. It is important. You don't always have a Bible on hand when someone asks you a Spritiual or doctrinal question, or you face a trial or temptation. If you have Scripture memorized then you always have it on hand to recall and reflect on when needed. The Psalmist said, "Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee." That is the idea behind Scripture memory.

It isn't easy. If it were, preachers wouldn't have to keep exhorting us to do it. I have gleaned a few ideas that should help you in your efforts.

1. Quote the verse and reference the last thing before going to bed at night, and first things when you wake in the morning. The reference is just as important as the rest of the verse. Sometimes it is necessary to look up the verse to find the context. Recite the reference before and after saying the verse to be sure it is set in your mind.

2. Try to associate the words with visual objects. Get pictures of the verse in your mind. You can even draw out pictures to represent words or phrases to jog your memory. If you're not artistic, clip pictures from magazines. Mount them to cards and put the word or phrase on the back in case you need to refresh.

3. As you review your verses, try to write them down.

4. Create a tune to help you remember the verse. Use a familiar tune or make one up.

5. Always speak the verses out loud and distinctly as you work on them.

6. Get a family member or friend to be a memory partner. Encourage and challenge one another to memorize God's Word. It's always more fun with two, and you're more motivated when you are accountable to someone else.