Praying Before Studying

{This was the post I wanted to put up yesterday, but due to unforeseen circumstances (psycho computer behavior) I was unable to get on the internet at all. I did get a lot of other things done around the house as a result, though:-}

I recently read this quote about how praying before studying the scriptures can benefit the study process:

"All of us face the daily struggle of trying to improve ourselves and become more godlike. We have the desire to become perfect, and yet it sometimes appears to be such an ominous and impossible thing. The Holy Ghost is indispensable to us in this struggle. And so it is that in the struggle to perfect our lives, we seek for the gifts that will strengthen us and guide us in our quest for perfection.

"One way, for example, that the Holy Ghost has been of help to me in my individual progression is by making me aware of my imperfections. When I pray for the guidance of the Spirit before reading scriptures, passages that relate to particular areas in which I need improvement seem to stand out. As I read them I am filled with the desire to do better. The Holy Ghost, besides bringing this information to our knowledge, can also grant us other spiritual gifts to help us in accomplishing our goals."(Coleen Baird, “The Holy Ghost: A Stranger, Visitor, or Constant Companion?,” Ensign, Jun 1977, 20)

The same is true for family scripture study. Try to take time before studying to pray and ask Heavenly Father for inspiration and help. Here are three benefits your family will gain from doing so:

1. Your kids will learn from positive patterning. Saying a prayer before reading books is not common. As your children learn this pattern of study it will help them understand the unique spiritual nature of the scriptures: learning spiritual things requires the presence and help of the Spirit.

2. Saying a prayer before studying helps to set the tone quicker. Sometimes when diving right into reading scriptures it takes a while for a reverence to develop. Prayer requires physical behaviors that invite the Spirit's presence, which then helps to carry over into the study process.

3. As a family you will learn more with Heavenly Father's help. The Holy Ghost can prompt various family members with comments, questions, and thoughts that will help to build testimonies and teach important principles.

Scripture of the Day: John 3:13