Pick a Card (Memory Verse Game)

In this simple and fun game, instructions for reciting or explaining a Bible verse are written on cards. Instructions might include “Whisper the verse” or “Sing the verse” or “Explain the Verse.” Children take turns drawing the cards and following the instructions. As they play the game, they hear and recite the verse a number of times and begin to memorise it.

Materials:

• A chosen verse from the Bible
• Paper to write the verse on
• Thick or heavier paper cut to the size of cards that children can easily hold in their hands. Index cards work well if you have them.
• Pen or markers

PREPARATION:

1. Choose a verse from the Bible. Note: The verse used in the video example above was Philippians 4:4
2. Use an easy-to-read version of the Bible for the memory verse. Try these or others that the children can understand:
   • (ICB) International Children’s Bible
   • NIrV (New International Reader’s Version)
   • CEV: (Contemporary English Version) or
   • ERV: (Easy-to-Read Version)
3. Write the verse on the paper so the children can read it with you. Alternatively, you can read the verse aloud from the Bible or write it on something like a chalkboard.
4. Write various actions on the thicker/heavier cards. Each card should have one action. Use large and clear writing so the children can easily read the actions. When writing actions, think of what the children in your group might find enjoyable. Here are some suggestions:
   • Read the verse from the Bible.
   • Explain the verse.
   • Sing the verse.
   • Act out the verse but make no sound.
   • Say the verse while dancing.
   • Choose someone else to say the verse.
   • Say the verse with your eyes closed.
   • Ask the teacher to say the verse from memory.
   • Whisper the verse.
   • Sing the verse in an opera voice.
   • Say the verse in a deep voice.
   • Say the verse in a baby voice.

Instructions:

1. Read the memory verse together from the Bible.
2. Explain and talk about what the verse means. Define any unfamiliar words.
3. Mix the cards up and lay them on the table in a small stack in front of the children.  Alternatively, hold the cards in your hands for the children to choose from.
4. The children will take turns drawing a card and performing the actions.

Adaptations:

• Learn As You Go: For older children, challenge them with this adaptation. Begin the game by only reading the scripture reference aloud, not the verse itself (for example, say Philippians 4:4). The first child has to find and read this verse aloud in order to do the card’s action. As the game goes on, the children will need to read the verse less and less before their turn because they are learning the verse.
• Make My Own: Help the children find the verse in the Bible and then guide them in making the action cards for the game. Children think of great actions for this game so prepare to be challenged.
• Large Groups: Divide the group into teams so that the teams have to perform the actions. Each team member should participate.
• Large Spaces: If you have a lot of space like a gym or playground, adapt the actions for the space. For example:
  • Run and touch the fence and then say the verse.
  • Shout the verse.
  • Bounce a ball while saying the verse.
  • Say the verse while using a hoola-hoop.