One of the things that we have all studied in Sunday School and Seminary is the repentance cycle. We start out realizing our dependence on Heavenly Father, but as we are righteous and our lives get easier, we take for granted the things He has given us. Then we begin to drift away, until we have a crisis realize we need to repent and then begin again. This cycle is very easy to see as you read the Book of Mormon.
What can we do as members of the church to avoid this cycle in our lives? It is important to realize how much we really do rely on the Lord in our day to day interactions and lives. It is easy to forget to thank Him when things are going well or when you life is very busy. Do you only turn to Him when you are in the middle of a crisis? Personally I know that my prayers become more fervent and heartfelt when I am struggling with something.
One way that we can prevent this is to take time daily to build our relationship with our Heavenly Father. It is important to read the scriptures on a daily basis. It is also important to ponder them and apply them to our lives. The scriptures teach us the way that we should live. Many answers to our problems can be found in the scriptures.
It is also important to take time to really pray every day. It is important to give thanks and acknowledge the blessings that you have received. It is also important to share any concerns or trials that you are currently facing. When you are praying be sure to take time to listen. The solution and/or comfort may come to you. You may receive the strength you need to continue on the path of righteousness.
The best way to make sure your scripture study and prayers are effective is to schedule enough time for them everyday. As you establish time specifically for communicating with your Heavenly Father everyday, you will be able to avoid the repentance cycle. It will bring a greater peace in your life and you will be better prepared to face the trials that come your way.
Related Articles:
General Conference: “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer”
Personal Scripture Study