study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior

During Sunday School, our teacher asked how we do scripture study. While I felt a bit shy about answering in a crowd, I was thrilled by the questions. For years, I tried and tried to study scripture at night but always fell asleep. I even tried studying in a tub of cold water to keep awake. Although this tactic made me stay awake, it wasn't conducive to learning or gaining spirituality. Nor was I ever prepared to participate in Sunday School.

Then after my Katie died, I grew determined to understand the Word of God and adopt its precepts. I don't want anything to keep me from seeing and being with my dear girl in the hereafter. I prayed for guidance not knowing exactly how to start. Anyway, the things I adopted throught the ensuing years that have stuck are these. Read scripture according to a lesson plan, such as the Sunday School Teacher's manuals, or according to topic, with manuals and the topical guide in the scriptures. Sometimes commentaries are eye opening, too. Marking the scriptures and keeping a journal of scriptural studies is a great joy. Plus, retention of ideas is greater. Memorization and pondering (meditation) are very nice. Adding music to personal devotionals, an extra dimension of spirituality builds upon the others. Reading aloud helps the message to sink in through ears, mind, and spirit. When I read now, I read aloud in English and Spanish. Adding in Spanish improves my acquisition of this language, which I'm still a novice after about a million years.

Since adopting this personal tradition, I have a better handle on my emotions and temper. "This has always been true; it will be true forever. The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior." Boyd K. Packer If I miss a day or two, I feel out of sorts until I get back to it.

I got new scriptures and journal for my birthday, which have given me much joy. At present I'm enjoying keeping my scripture journal on paper again with a renewed introspect attitude.