Personal Study By Faith

Keeping a daily habit of personal scripture study and prayer can be hard. But it doesn't have to be. I have found that as I study the scriptures, my faith is strengthened, and I receive protection from the adversary. How much harder would life be if we didn't have the Spirit?

My seminary lesson today said, "Scripture study isn’t just about the amount of time you do it. It’s about what happens to your mind and your heart while you open yourself to the voice of God in your life." When we put forth the effort to learn and grow, God blesses us with guidance and love. Our faith is increased, and we develop firm testimonies.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks stated, “Scripture reading puts us in tune with the Spirit of the Lord. . . . Because we believe that scripture reading can help us receive revelation, we are encouraged to read the scriptures again and again. By this means, we obtain access to what our Heavenly Father would have us know and do in our personal lives today. That is one reason Latter-day Saints believe in daily scripture study." I, too, believe in daily scripture study! It brings the Spirit, and helps me to have the strength to withstand temptation. No matter how many times I have read specific scriptures, I can always find new lessons to learn from them. For instance, the Book of Mormon. I have read it at least three times, but each time I find something that I either forgot, or something that applies well to my life during that time, or even simple words that touch my heart. When we open our hearts and ask God in faith, the Holy Ghost will help us understand gospel truths.

Again with seminary, "If you make efforts to learn by faith, you can know that your life will change because you will feel Heavenly Father near to you. He will help you understand not only the scriptures, but also the problems you have and what you need to do to prepare for a happy life." The Lord blesses me daily with trials to overcome, and gives me the love and strength I need to persevere. If we put in sincere effort to learn from the scriptures, we can gain testimonies of them and receive the spiritual strength we need to endure to the end.

So, study your scriptures. Pray daily. Develop a sincere relationship with your Father in Heaven. You will be blessed for your efforts! 

-JS