The scriptures are amazing. On days when I feel like despairing there is nothing that is better for me than deciding to read my scriptures.
On such days I will usually sit there with the book in my lap for some minutes before actually opening it to read. It's like if I open it I am resolving to try and be better and happier; and that takes some effort when in a miserable state of mind. After I finally open it I at first read a bit halfheartedly and don't fully understand anything I am reading. Especially if it has been a while since I have read.
However, after about ten minutes something miraculous happens. Even if the words still aren't completely sinking in, I suddenly feel at peace. Even on the days when I think it is impossible to feel that peace, I feel it. As soon as this dawns on me I start putting in a little more effort. I pull out a scripture marker, and maybe even a notebook. After about twenty-five minutes or more I am actually enjoying what I read. I am marking things, writing notes, and drawing parallels all over the place. And when I am done I don't just feel peaceful, I feel refreshed and strengthened.
I don't mean to make is sound like reading the scriptures is always a struggle for me. On happier days it comes easy and just fills me to the brim. On hard days it does take more effort. When you are not feeling spiritual then trying to do anything that is spiritual always takes effort. You have to convert yourself from one mindset to the other. From worldly cares to higher thoughts. And when you are willing to show the Lord that you are trying then He will open up to you and give you more than you imagined you could even receive.
Oh yes, and no matter what mood I am in I always pray before I read my scriptures. Whether it is long or short I know it helps. Because of course they go hand in hand. I pray for understanding and a desire to read and learn, and to love the scriptures.
What I am trying to say is: The scriptures are amazing. And I don't know why I ever have to think twice before turning to them. Human weakness really doesn't make any sense.
<3 Tiffany Alaine
To be continued in next post.
1 comment:
I've been really trying to read daily, and I am always disappointed in my human weakness! Durn that humanness in me! :) I was doing so good, and then I just forgot for a few days, but I'm back on track...and it does just make the day better, doesn't it?
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