"Draw Nearer to God” : Liken the Scriptures unto Yourself

The scriptures mean so much to me! Throughout my life I have gotten into amazing scripture study habits, only to fall out of them after some period of time. The times when I keep up, I am so excited to turn to the scriptures. When I am not routinely reading, I feel burdened with the idea of reading them, and I struggle to make a new habit. However, with this coming school year, I am prepared to keep a study habit that is consistent so that my testimony will continue to grow! I have many goals for this year and one being my Scripture Journal! In the Book of Mormon, Nephi introduces us to his life, his family, God, and the plates. The very first verse struck a chord with me when I realized I could apply it in my own life.

"I Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, 

therefore I was taught somewhat in all the 

learning of my father: and having seen 

many afflictions in the course of my days, 

nevertheless, having been highly favored of 

the Lord in all my days; yea, having had a great 

knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of God, 

therefore I make a record of my proceedings in my 

days."

We are to "liken the scriptures unto ourselves" and so I replaced Nephi's name, with my own. This scripture inspired me to make a record of my own; a collection of revelation! I made this scripture the opening statement of my Scripture Journal and everytime I open that journal I am reminded of the goodness of God and the blessings He has given to me and to His children throughout the ages. We studied this scripture also in my Teachings and Doctrines of the Book of Mormon class and the lesson reaffirmed my goals to study the scriptures and make learning them an integral part of my life!

Along with my Scripture Journal, I will update my LDS instagram and this blog using the scriptures I find meaningful! The first of these scriptures is found in Moroni 8:3.

I prepared and presented a FHE lesson the week before heading to BYU, and for my lesson I wondered what I could possibly leave for my siblings that would be a good representation of my testimony. I wanted it to be almost like my "final" advice to them! I compiled a list of all my favorite scriptures and presented this to my family explaining what the scriptures were, what made them my favorite leading to WHY they meant so much to me!

The first scripture I shared is Moroni writing to us and of his prayers for us in the latter days. Moroni promised that if we would endure, Jesus Christ would be with us every step of the way! This means so much to me because when I have ever felt alone or disheartened, I always know that God is with me and that with Christ, I can overcome all my challenges and struggles. Christ is always with us, He knows each of us, loves as, and was willing to suffer for all of us! I know God also loves us, He is our loving Heavenly Father, and with Heavenly Mother, they will give us every blessing if we turn to them with faith, courage, and endurance! I share this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.