Studying the sciptures is the most profitable of all study in which we can engage. Central to the teachings in all scripture is that Jesus is the Savior of the World. Pres. Hunter teaches us that when we follow the counsel of our leaders to read and study the scriptures, benefits and blessings of many kinds come to us. Through the scriptures God speaks to man. It is where we can receive answers to our questions and guidance from the Lord. Pres. Hunter says, "The written word of God is in the most readable and accessible form ever provided to lay members in the history of the world. Surely we will be held accountable if we do not read them."
Studying the scriptures helps us learn and obey God's will. In order to be obedient to God's commandments, we need to learn and understand them. The gospel and the plan of salvation, explained to us through prophets of God, is contained in the Holy Scriptures. When we understand them and God's will, we will be able to follow His will. Pres. Hunter says, "I commend to you the revelations of God as the standard by which we must live our lives and by which we must measure every decision and every deed. Accordingly, when you have worries and challenges, face them by turning to the scriptures and the prophets."
To understand the scriptures requires concentrated, consistent, prayerful study. Pres. Hunter has asked us to do 2 things: 1) Read, ponder, and pray over the scriptures daily as individual member of the Church. 2) Hold family scripture reading on a regular basis.
Prayer is also a big factor in our scripture sutdy. It can open our understanding and invite the spirit with us. The Holy Spirit will guide our understanding if we are ready and eager to receive.
As a class we read the scriptural account of Jarius and then read from the manual as Pres. Hunter took us through that passage to help us understand the history and details of the story. It was facinating to learn of the prestige of Jarius, where Jesus and His diciples had come from when Jarius asked for help, and then the faith of his plea for Jesus to heal his daughter is incredible.
The Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants will bring us closer to Christ. The great mission of the Book of Mormon is to bring men to Christ. It is the word of God. "It is through reading and studying the Book of Mormon, and prayerfully seeking confirmation of its contents, that we receive a testimony that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God and that the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth."
The Doctrine and Covenants is unique in the fact that it is the only book with a preface composed by the Creator himself. It also contains more direct quotations from the Lord than any other book. It is of modern origin, not translated ancient scripture. It is for our day.
We are so fortunate to have the four standard works to study and learn from. So many blessings and promises can be ours if we only consistently study and ponder over these sacred words.
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