We all know that Bible memory is not only for adults. My experience has been that what we commit to memory as children often lasts longer that that which we memorize as adults.
Having taught preschool ages in Sunday School for over 20 years and having numerous Bible verses for kids to memorize, I believe we often underestimate the ability of our children to memorize, or we wait until they can read for themselves.
Don’t wait! Start early! Being able to read is NOT a prerequisite to memorizing scripture.
I notice that Bible curriculum often shorten or summarize verse for little ones. For instance, a Bible memory verse for a preschooler would be “Be kind.” However, I believe that, although it may be more work for the parent or teacher, those preschool and kindergarten ages children are well able to memorize entire verses.
There are many “lists of verses for toddlers” suggested online for your child to memorize. I will just join the mix here with my suggestions of children’s Bible memory verses that will give your child a great foundation upon which to build.
1. Genesis 1:1 – Start from the Beginning
Preschoolers are preoccupied with bugs and animals, the sun and moon and foods. Why not start with easy Bible verses for kids? Begin at the beginning:
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”
Genesis 1:1 NKJV
It seems basic, but there is so much great theology contained in just this single verse.
2. Colossians 3:20 – Learning to Obey
A preschooler’s life revolves around his or her immediate family relationships. Shouldn’t they be aware of what God requires?
“Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord.”
Colossians 3:20 NKJV
The command in God’s Word is simple and easy to understand, even for a preschooler! It also sets the stage for understanding how to please Jesus Christ as our Savior.
3. Luke 6:31 – How to Treat Others
A preschooler is just beginning to progress from playing in the company of others to actually playing and interacting with other children.
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
Luke 6:31 NLT
Give your preschooler a memory verse that you can both talk about when they cry about something that feels unfair.
4. Ephesians 4:32 – How to Treat Others (Pt. 2)
While the verse above from Luke is helpful when dealing with how others treat you, using Paul’s words from Ephesians can help teach your preschooler how they should treat others.
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”
Ephesians 4:32 NKJV
Instead of “tenderhearted”, which might be a difficult word for your preschooler, consider substituting the word “merciful” or “compassionate”, which is what other versions of the Bible use.
5. Philippians 4:13 – Possible with Christ
Preschoolers are learning what they are capable of doing, and they are normally well aware that they can’t do what older siblings can do.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13
Of course, you may know that this verse is somewhat taken out of context in the church. You can also help teach them what it means to be happy with what we have, and that God gives us the strength to be content like that!
6. Psalm 56:3 – Dealing with Fear
And what about the times when your preschoolers is afraid or fearful? How can they learn to lean on Christ Jesus?
“What time I am afraid, I will trust in You.”
Psalm 56:3
Again, having verses that can be pulled out at a moment’s notice and used in practical situations is a great way to help your preschooler see the value of having portions of the Bible memorized, things that they can carry with them into eternal life.
It’s also a great opportunity to introduce the concept of the Holy Spirit, who is with us even in time of fear and doubt.
7. 1 Peter 5:7 – God Cares!
And finally, a reminder to your preschooler that our Lord Jesus Christ cares about them.
“Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7
Don’t forget to review these Bible verses with your preschooler so that they don’t forget them! And check out the Scripture blog for more great Bible verse lists like this.
What do you think? Are there other Bible memory verses for kids you would add to this list? Leave a comment below.
I’m excited. Our going this , while I’m up in age I bet I can do some of it
Great! And hopefully you can get your grandkids involved as well 🙂