How a Deck of Cards Became a Bible: Lessons from Tex Ritter’s Classic Son

Have you ever seen someone use a deck of cards for prayer and Bible study? In Tex Ritter’s classic song, “Deck of Cards”, a young Christian soldier does just that—and the results are powerful.

I hadn’t thought about this old song for years, but I recently came across it again and was reminded of the Deck of Cards Christian song meaning hidden there. It’s a great reminder that God speaks to us in unexpected ways.

A Soldier’s Faith in Unlikely Places

In the video above, Tex Ritter shares a touching story of a soldier who uses a deck of cards to represent his faith. Each card becomes a symbol—a devotional tool that reminds him of Scripture, prayer, and even the calendar. It’s a beautiful example of using what we have, wherever we are, to stay connected to God.

As Psalm 119:105 (NASB) says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Even in a battlefield or in a quiet moment alone, God’s truth can reach us through simple things—like a deck of cards.

The Deck of Cards Lyrics – by Tex Ritter..

In case you can’t wait to hear the end, I included the lyrics to “The Deck of Cards” below.

During the North African campaign, a bunch of soldier boys had
Been on a long hike and they arrived in a little town called Casino.

The Next morning being Sunday, several of the boys went to Church.

A sergeant Commanded the boys in Church and after the Chaplain had read the prayer,

The text was taken up next. Those of the boys who had a prayer book took
them out, but this one boy had only a deck of cards, and so he spread
them out.

The Sergeant saw the cards and said, “Soldier, put away those
Cards.“

After the services was over, the soldier was taken prisoner and
Brought before the Provost Marshall.

The Marshall said, “Sergeant, why have you brought this man
Here?”

“For playing cards in church, Sir.” “And what have you to say for
Yourself, son?”

“Much, Sir,” replied the soldier. The Marshall said, “I hope so,

For if not I shall punish you more than any man was ever
Punished.”

The soldier said, “Sir, I have been on the march for about six
Days.

I have neither a Bible nor a prayer book, but I hope to satisfy
You, Sir, with the purity of my intentions.” And with that, the boy
Started his story:

“You see Sir, when I look at the “Ace,” it reminds me that there
Is but one God.

And the “Deuce” reminds me that the Bible is divided into
Two parts, the Old and the New Testaments.

When I see the “Trey,” I think
Of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

And when I see the “Four,” I Think of the four Evangelists who preached the Gospel;

there was Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

And when I see the “Five,” it reminds me of the five
Wise virgins who trimmed their lamps; there were ten of them: five were
Wise and were saved, five were foolish and were shut out.

When I see the “Six,” it reminds me that in six days, God made this great heaven and
Earth.

When I see the “Seven,” it reminds me that on the seventh day, God
Rested from His great work.

And when I see the “Eight,” I think of the Eight righteous persons God saved when He destroyed this earth; there was
Noah, his wife, their sons and their wives.

And when I see the “Nine,” I Think of the lepers our Savior cleansed, and nine out of the ten didn’t
Even thank Him.

When I see the “Ten,” I think of the Ten Commandments God
Handed down to Moses on a table of stone.

When I see the “King,” it Reminds me that there is but one King of Heaven, God Almighty.

And when I See the “Queen,” I think of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is Queen of
Heaven.

And the “Jack” or “Knave” is the Devil.

When I count the number Of spots on a deck of cards, I find 365, the number of days in a year.

There are 52 cards, the number of weeks in a year.

There are 4 suits, the Number of weeks in a month.

There are 12 picture cards, the number of Months in a year.

There are 13 tricks, the number of weeks in a quarter.

So you see, Sir, my pack of cards serves me as a Bible, an Almanac and a
Prayer Book.”

“And friends, the story is true. I know, I was that soldier.”

Tex Ritter’s Voice Brings the Message Home

The legendary country singer Tex Ritter recorded this heartfelt ballad in 1948, just after World War II. While I was blessed to see him perform live as a teenager, I honestly don’t remember if he sang this song during the show. Still, listening to it now with fresh ears, I find new meaning in the words.

His deep voice and calm delivery make the story even more impactful. It’s not just a song—it’s a lesson in finding God’s presence in the everyday.

God Will Always Find a Way

This song reminds me that if you are truly seeking a relationship with Jesus Christ, God will make a way. No matter where you are in life—whether on a battlefield or in your own living room—He will reach out to you.

John 3:16 (NASB) shares the message of hope: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.”

If you’re looking for more about beginning that journey, read this article about John 3:16 and how it reveals the depth of God’s love for you.

More Encouragement for Your Walk with Christ

Want to learn more about one of the Bible’s most faithful voices? Read this article about John the Baptist—a man who boldly prepared the way for Jesus and shows us what it means to stand strong in our faith.

For additional uplifting content and memes to share with friends, visit our homepage at MakingChristKnown.com or enjoy another encouraging meme here.

Closing Thoughts

Whether you’re a longtime believer or just starting to explore the Christian faith, I hope this song and story inspire you today. Let this “Deck of Cards” be a reminder that God’s presence isn’t limited to church buildings or formal devotionals.

If the message touched your heart as it did mine, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to comment and share your thoughts below!

In the words of Matthew 19:26 (NASB): “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

In Christ,

Bob