Power of the Word

We had the wonderful opportunity to gather with all our Relief Society sisters last Sunday and enjoy a lesson taught by Gary Scoville, a member of the bishopric. The topic was "Power of the Word" from chapter 8 found in the Teachings of the Presidents: Ezra Taft Benson manual. Consider the following quote from President Benson:

"I add my voice to these wise and inspired brethren and say to you that one of the most important things you can do as priesthood leaders is to immerse yourselves in the scriptures. Search them diligently. Feast upon the words of Christ. Learn the doctrine. Master the principles that are found therein. There are few other efforts that will bring greater dividends to your calling. There are few other ways to gain greater inspiration as you serve.

But that alone, as valuable as it is, is not enough. You must also bend your efforts and your activities to stimulating meaningful scripture study among the members of the Church. Often we spend great effort in trying to increase the activity levels in our stakes. We work diligently to raise the percentages of those attending sacrament meetings. We labor to get a higher percentage of our young men on missions. We strive to improve the numbers of those marrying in the temple. All of these are commendable efforts and important to the growth of the kingdom. But when individual members and families immerse themselves in the scriptures regularly and consistently, these other areas of activity will automatically come. Testimonies will increase. Commitment will be strengthened. Families will be fortified. Personal revelation will flow."

What an incredible promise that as we personally immerse ourselves in the scriptures and feast upon the word of God, we will have the insight, strength, and guidance to bless our families and those around us in remarkable ways. 

Brother Scoville shared the following scriptures and asked us to consider the many blessings we have been promised if we will faithfully search, study, and apply the scriptures in our daily lives. This would be a wonderful activity to share with your family and to utilize in your own personal study time.

Book of Mormon Intro, 4th paragraph

Psalms 19:7

Jacob 2:8

Joshua 1:8

2 Nephi 32:3

1 Nephi 15:23-24

2 Nephi 31:20

Alma 31:5

Alma 36:26

Alma 37:44

Helaman 3:29

Romans 15:4

2 Timothy 3:15

Hebrews 4:12

Psalms 119:105

DC 84:85

JS-M 1:37

As you read each scripture, take a moment to jot down the blessing that is promised. It is astounding to realize how far reaching the blessings of scripture study can be in every aspect of our lives.

We would love to have you share any additional thoughts, comments, experiences or ideas you have had or have regarding how to study the scriptures and how the scriptures have personally blessed your life! What other thoughts did you have during the lesson?

Please feel free to share in the COMMENT section.