Figure 8 Scripture Memory

Figure 8 Guidelines
The Figure 8 Scripture Memory by Meditation System is based upon principles found within Psalm 119. Throughout these 176 verses, the Psalmist sets forth the concept of meditating upon Scripture. He says, “I will meditate on Your precepts, and regard Your ways. I shall delight in Your statutes; I shall not forget Your word” (Psalm 119:15-16). The natural result of such meditation is remembering God’s precepts. However, it is important to note that the overarching goal is not to memorize text, but instead for the teaching and commandments of God to be written on the tablets of our hearts (Proverbs 7:2-3). This should bring about a life dedicated to knowing God personally rather than merely knowing about Him. We must not aspire to become intelligent rule-followers, but rather obedient Christ-lovers. Also, the Figure 8 System is not a magical formula. It is a system of disciplines. It is not enough to merely follow the guidelines. Instead, one must make disciplined and consistent application of his energy and effort. For complete instructions, log on to our website, Figure8ScriptureMemory.com. However, the basic guidelines are as follows:

1. Meditate Day and Night: This discipline of the Figure 8 System is geared toward encouraging believers to meditate upon God’s word throughout the day and night. Participants should choose a book of the Bible and seek to meditate upon one chapter once per hour for at least 8 hours per day. This can be fulfilled by taking 3 minutes, at the top of each hour, to read the chapter thoughtfully and slowly. Each chapter should be given individual attention for 8 straight days, resulting in an opportunity to meditate upon each chapter no less than 64times by the end of the 8-day period (Want to start small? Go to the web for easier schedules.)

2. Italicized Starter Phrases: The next discipline of the Figure 8 System involves creating a list of Italicized Starter phrases. These phrases will help the participant to do two things: First, learning the order of these phrases will enable one to remember the logical progression of the passage. Second, these phrases also serve as markers for recalling specific Scripture references. Primary Markers include multiples of eight (1, 8, 16, 24, etc…) and Secondary Markers include each reference in between (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, etc…) The Starter Phrases for each chapter should be reviewed along with the assigned text for each 8-day period. A thorough understanding of the Primary Markers allows the participant to be no more than 4 verses away from recalling a specific Scripture reference. Then, knowledge of the Secondary Markers can lead him directly to the desired verse.

3. Disciplined Study: While the first two points are foundational, a disciplined study of the Scripture will empower these core concepts. This disciplined study can be accomplished by using devotional time and spare time during the 8-day period to read commentaries, research historical and cultural contexts, and listen to sermons preached on the current chapter. Again, the desired result is not memorization of a text, but gaining a thorough and applicable understanding of God’s word.

4. Testing Out: The day after each 8-day period should be used as a break from the daily Figure 8 schedule. In place of the normal schedule, the participant should recite the completed chapter from memory to a friend or accountability partner. Once this is accomplished successfully, he should proceed to the next chapter. Once an entire book is memorized, the participant should test out of the book by reciting the entire book from memory.

For complete instructions, log on to our website, Figure8ScriptureMemory.com