Scripture Study Suggestions

Studying the scriptures will bring you closer to Heavenly Father and help you become more like Him. President Ezra Taft Benson said the Book of Mormon brings great strength to the lives of those who diligently study it. “You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path” (Ensign, Nov. 1986, 7).

If you struggle with finding time to study the scriptures, understanding when you do read, or you just don’t know what you’re getting out of them, here are some ideas from New Era readers on how you can make your personal scripture study more meaningful:

Make studying your scriptures a priority. You might not think you have the time, but if you make time to read, the other things you need to do will fall into place.
Read every day for a set amount of time, preferably when you’re alert.
Pray before you read for understanding and guidance and to invite the Holy Ghost to be with you.
When you have finished reading, take a few minutes to ponder and pray about what you have read. Ask yourself if you really understood what you were reading.
Keep a journal. Write down what the Spirit teaches you about the scriptures.
Share what you learn with someone else. Teaching a concept or bearing your testimony is a good way to remember what you have learned.
If possible, set aside a place where you can read quietly. Always try to read in a place free of distractions.
Choose a topic that’s relevant to your life at the moment and search for scripture references on that topic in the Index, Bible Dictionary, or Topical Guide.
Consider the teachings offered in the scriptures and how they apply to your life. Decide how you will live the principles you have learned.
If your mind wanders, go back and read what you missed. Remember, it’s not how much you read each day but the quality of your studying that counts.

Illustrated by Scott Snow