Is Your Scripture Study a Ritual or Relationship?
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- The Part of Christ’s Sacrifice You Haven’t Considered by H. Wallace Goddard
- No Simple Slogans for Israel and Gaza by Gale Boyd
- The Proctors on a Mission #12—Gathering the Forces of Light by Scot and Maurine Proctor
- Inside Out Joy by Kathy K. Clayton
- A Special Edition Podcast: A Message of Faith and Hope from the Proctors by Scot and Maurine Proctor
- The First Presidency Announces New Voice for ‘Music & the Spoken Word’ by Meridian Church Newswire
- Relearning Touch After Betrayal by Geoff Steurer, MS, LMFT
- Come Follow Me Book of Mormon Podcast #13: “He Shall Rise … with Healing in His Wings,” Easter by Scot and Maurine Proctor
- Watch First Video From Final Season of “Book of Mormon Videos” by Larry Richman
- New Video Messages for Easter from Elder Andersen and Elder Christofferson by Meridian Magazine
Comments | Return to Story
Brian BalkcomAugust 16, 2016
Brother Wallace, That is an excellent article! Thank you for articulating the need to distinguish between the vehicle (scripture study and prayer) and the goal (coming to Christ, knowing Him, relating to Him) so clearly. I am continually amazed at how easy it is to get confused about what we are trying to do, where we are trying to go, what we are trying to become. Because, even when we are trying hard, we are so easily distracted, diverted and led astray. Thanks for the reminder of our need to focus on Him rather than our own doings, our own activities, even when those activities and efforts are good and wholesome ones.
MikeAugust 16, 2016
I also have enjoyed Brant Gardner's commentary in my Book of Mormon study this past few months. This time through however I decided to read my 1830 edition book along with the narration on the church website. Often I still stop the recording and underline and ponder. So far, it's been exceedingly enlightening and a solid spiritual experience because I'm reading without commentary and asking the Lord to help explain difficult passages to me as I go. My eyes have been opened to teachings I feel I'm needing right now and I've started a book of Mormon journal to write my impressions down. I'm not speeding through it, I'm focusing on the words and thinking and pondering how they relate to me. But I know not everyone has the time I may have to do that. And I agree with the author- keep your focus on the savior and his atonement as much as possible. We are definitely a very blessed people living today with all the sources of study we have at our fingertips. I'm very grateful for that. I think we often take it for granted.
Lorena HolmsteadAugust 16, 2016
Hurray! I couldn't agree more! Wonderful insights.
Phoebe HallAugust 16, 2016
Once again, you hit the nail on the head. When we get to the other side, the Lord is not going to look at our checklist and times spent checking the box. He will look at our heart. The steady, continued "habits" of attending church, scripture reading and prayer are designed nourish our Spirits so we will come to Him. They are not the end. He is.
vickieAugust 16, 2016
my scripture study is BOTH....it started out as a ritual....then it became a relationship. I am not like other people. I read at night...I love it....I also read my ensign as a ritual and enjoy it so much. I read the actual magazine. I look forward to reading my scriptures and my ensign.....its quiet at night ....and the peace allows me to ponder. I go to bed early enough to say my prayers and then I commence into reading....
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