Daily scripture study helps me to make it through the day to day grind of life. It allows me a few moments each day to focus on my relationship with Christ and allows me the chance to grow closer to Him. As I take the time to read and study each day, I can feel the peace of the gospel come into my heart. That peace helps to fortify me against the tasks that I have in the day ahead. It truly strengthens me for all the trials that I have to face whether today or in the years to come. I am going to discuss some keys for successful scripture study.
1) Establish a time and a place to study each day. While some people can squeeze it in between other activities, I have always found it easier to choose a set time and to study during that time. The times have varied for me, as my circumstances have varied. While I was in high school reading at night worked best. Now that I have children, reading first thing in the morning works for me. Find a time that works for you and stick to it.
2) Decide what you are going to study. There is something to be said for reading the scriptures straight through, a chapter or two a day. But there is also a lot that can be gained by studying a certain topic. Choose which method you want to use right now, and study. If you are going to study by topic, make use of the Bible Dictionary and the Topical Guide. These will help find the scriptures pertaining to the topic that you are studying.
3) Prayer always helps to make scripture study more meaningful, especially if you are seeking answers to a particular topic. You can begin your study with a prayer, and also end it with a prayer as you ponder the topics that you have studied that day.
As you study the scriptures on a regular basis you can feel an increased measure of peace in your life, your understanding of the gospel will increase, and you will be better prepared to meet life’s challenges. What are some things you do to make scripture study more meaningful?