How do you prepare yourself to study the scriptures? What frame of mind are you in when you kneel to pray? It is important to come prepared so that you can learn as you study and pray.
In 3 Nephi 11 we read about how it took the Nephites three times before they were able to understand the voice from heaven. In verses 5 and 6 we read: “And again the third time they did hear the voice, and did open their ears to hear it; and their eyes were toward the sound thereof; and they did look steadfastly towards heaven, from which the sound came. And behold the third time they did understand the voice, which they heard . . .”
This scripture is significant if we apply it to the way in which we learn the gospel. The Nephites had to prepare themselves to accept the words. They had to focus on it completely. They strained to hear the words, and they shifted their entire focus to where the sound was coming from.
When we study the scriptures and go the Lord in prayer we need to do so with a similar intensity. We should switch off the news program, and find a time to study when it is quiet. We should focus on the scriptures, and try to stop our minds from straying too much.
When we pray we should find a quiet corner and kneel. We should pour out our soul, but we should also listen. This needs to be done with focus, and dropping off during a prayer is not giving the Lord your whole focus. It can take practice to pray and then to spend time on your knees waiting for an answer, but as you do it, it will become easier.
The blessings we can receive through diligent and focused scripture study and daily prayer can bless our lives immensely. A greater sense of peace, and a closeness to the spirit can help you face the trials in your life. What have you done to help focus your scripture study so that you are listening and focusing on the Lord?
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