Scripture study requires time and effort.
After Nephi and his brothers obtained the brass plates, their father Lehi “did search them from the beginning” (1 Nephi 5:10). Years later, Nephi’s brother Jacob acknowledged that many of Lehi’s descendants had followed his example: “I know that ye have searched much, many of you, to know of things to come,” he said (2 Nephi 9:4). Jacob explained that scripture study opens the door to personal revelation and spiritual growth. “We search the prophets,” he wrote, “and we have many revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken” (Jacob 4:6).
Benjamin urged his sons to search the scriptures “dilgently” (Mosiah 1:7). His grandsons, the sons of Mosiah, followed that advice during their fourteen-year mission to the Lamanites, becoming more attuned to the Holy Ghost in the process and therefore becoming powerful teachers. (See Alma 17:2-3.)
Jesus quoted extensively from Old Testament prophets during His ministry in the Americas, particularly Isaiah. He said, “Behold they are written, ye have them before you, therefore search them” (3 Nephi 20:11). He later added, “Ye ought to search these things. Yea, a commandment I give unto you that ye search these things diligently; for great are the words of Isaiah” (3 Nephi 23:1).
Nephi shows us what can happen if we choose to act upon the Savior’s admonition. He not only quotes extensively from Isaiah, but he also comments insightfully on the passages he has quoted, demonstrating that he has internalized the messages and “likened” them unto himself. (See 1 Nephi 19:23-24, 2 Nephi 11:2, 8.)
What does it look like to “search” the scriptures? How do we do it?
Sister Julie B. Beck, who served in the Young Women General Presidency and later as Relief Society General President, shared some of her scripture study techniques in a general conference talk. Here are some of her suggested activities:
- Buy a new paper copy of the scriptures when you receive a new calling, and look for insights that will help you fulfill the calling.
- Treat your scriptures like a workbook, making notes in the margins and even writing where you were when you received a particular insight.
- Use paper tabs to help you quickly find important passages, such as scriptures about the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
- Draw lines to connect ideas.
- Shade verses and underline key words.
- Make a scripture chain, linking multiple related scriptures.
- Read the scriptures in a different language.
- Look for answers to your questions.
- Look for questions that the scriptures ask you. Write those questions in the back of your scriptures, and ponder your answers.
- Think about the meaning of passages you have memorized.
(See “My Soul Delighteth in the Scriptures,” General Conference, April 2004.)
In July 1830, three months after the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Lord instructed Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and John Whitmer, “Let your time be devoted to the studying of the scriptures” (Doctrine and Covenants 26:1). As we dedicate time and effort to scripture study each day, we become more familiar with God’s words. Our perception improves, we make better decisions, and we are able to share true principles with others. This process isn’t easy—it requires diligence and persistence. It is incredibly rewarding.
Today, I will devote time and energy to the scriptures. I will take seriously the Savior’s admonition to “search these things diligently.” I will be grateful that the scriptures help me access personal revelation and grow spiritually.
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