2016
Questions & Answers: Why is it so important to study the scriptures?
December 2016


“Questions & Answers: Why is it so important to study the scriptures?” New Era, December 2016

Questions & Answers

I’m struggling to study the scriptures. Why is it so important to study them?

From this year’s Mutual theme, you’ve learned how to “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ” (2 Nephi 31:20). This scripture teaches that pressing forward includes “feasting upon the word of Christ.” Why is this important? Here are a few ways that studying the scriptures helps us press forward:

  • President Thomas S. Monson taught that “if you will study the scriptures diligently, your power to avoid temptation and to receive direction of the Holy Ghost in all you do will be increased” (“Be Your Best Self,” Apr. 2009 general conference).

  • You can gain a testimony and strengthen your faith as you prayerfully study the scriptures. Studying the Book of Mormon especially and gaining a testimony of its truthfulness will help you know that Jesus is the Christ, that Joseph Smith was a prophet, and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. (You can learn more about these promises in the introduction to the Book of Mormon.)

  • You can receive personal inspiration and answers to your questions through the scriptures. As God communicates to you through the scriptures and through His Spirit, you can gain confidence and strength to press forward through any obstacles you face.

  • Perhaps the most important reason to study the scriptures is that they teach about Jesus Christ and how you can follow His example and teachings. Living the principles you read about will help you become more like the Savior.

Answers to My Questions

If I have questions, I know I can turn to the scriptures and find answers. They are the Lord’s words, and His doctrine never changes. I know that no matter what opposition I’m facing, the scriptures are always there for me with answers. They also answer questions about where the Church stands on many topics. I know if I read the scriptures carefully, it will help me to have the Holy Ghost with me, which helps me know right from wrong.

Emily A., 17, Washington, USA

My Burdens Became Light

One school year I began to feel weighed down from the stress of life. During one of these stressful days, I prayed and read the Book of Mormon for 10 minutes. As I read, I felt an incredible warmth fill my heart. I felt loved, uplifted, and happy despite my trials. I felt an incredible peace I had never felt before. From this experience I finally understood what the Savior meant when He said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you” (John 14:27). The next few weeks, I had this experience multiple times, and it propelled me to move forward through my struggles.

Chloe K., 18, Wisconsin, USA

Power to Change

Before, I really had no testimony of the Book of Mormon, but when I sincerely prayed for guidance from the Holy Ghost, I had such great feelings about the Book of Mormon. I already had a desire to know that the book was true, so I started prayerfully reading and studying it. Line upon line, precept upon precept, I received personal revelation that the book is true (see 2 Nephi 28:30). I love the Book of Mormon. I treasure up the teachings I receive while I study it. The Book of Mormon has a power that can lead us to change for the better.

Ariel Candawan T., 18, Philippines

God’s Love

By the power, example, and teachings in the scriptures, I have been able to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. The scriptures have a divine power in which God can guide and teach us. So whenever you feel alone or abandoned, read the scriptures. Then remember that your Father in Heaven preserved them specifically for you so you could know that He loves you.

Scott H., 19, Wisconsin, USA

Goodness and Light

I started reading the Book of Mormon for the first time when I became a Beehive. I read it from cover to cover and thought that would be the end. But I was so wrong. My life seemed to be missing something. So I decided to start reading it again, this time paying closer attention. As I did, my life was filled with the light that had dimmed since I had finished it. I understood more and came to really love it. Read it all the time and you are ensuring yourself a life of goodness and light.

Kellie M., 15, Utah, USA

Overcoming Temptations

Studying the scriptures helps me live the gospel at school. I’m just starting middle school, and there are a lot of bad things and temptations. When I have a hard time resisting temptation, I try to read the scripture stories to find answers to my problems. It helps to dispel temptation and turn toward the gospel.

Blake C., 12, Idaho, USA

Scripture Power

This is my first time attempting to read the Book of Mormon. My favorite chapters are in 2 Nephi 25–33. So far, they have strengthened me the most. The Primary song “Scripture Power” has never been more accurate for me. I testify of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and strongly advise you to study it every day.

Sariah J., 13, Arizona, USA