As Mormons, or members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we value greatly the word of God found in the scriptures. But even we at times need to be reminded of powerful ways to get more from scripture study.
Whereas in school a person might get in trouble for staring out the window deep in thought, in scripture study it is completely a different matter. The Lord wants you to take the time to ponder on what you’ve just read.
In fact, if we speed-read through the scriptures, we might miss many priceless pieces of information that could help us in our current struggles!
I know that when I’ve been reading the scriptures, there have been times when I’ve absolutely had to stop. I couldn’t help it. That which I’d just read struck me with such force or insight that I couldn’t go on. And then I find myself in that traditional pose which aggravates many school teachers … my eyes fixed on some distant point while my mind is “chewing” on something new and important!
At times, I’m in that mode for several minutes. And I think it is because of the very reason mentioned in this precept, as found in Isaiah 55:
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
I think this is why I need to stop and ponder at times while reading my scriptures. My thoughts aren’t yet on the level of the Lord’s thoughts. Therefore, those things contained in the scriptures at times will be or seem very new to my mentality and perspectives. THAT is why it is so very important that I take my time while reading them, and when needed, actually stop and mentally “chew” on what I’ve read.
This approach isn’t much different than when we eat our food. Talk to any nutritionist and they will tell you that the slower you chew your food, the better your body is able to digest its nutrients.
I’m learning as I go through the years that scripture study is very similar. There are many spiritual “nutrients” contained in the scriptures that will strengthen me, simply if I take the time to “chew” on them slowly, thereby letting their spiritual truths seep into my life in powerful ways.
Yes, indeed, having the courage to read slowly during scripture study – and even stop to ponder from time to time – can be a powerful way to strengthen a person spiritually for the day!
