While I strongly believe in the importance of keeping a study journal, the truth is I've never successfully kept one. A good portion of that being due to the fact that I haven't really "studied" the scriptures for a long time. That is one part of my life that I have felt really guilty about. I studied the scriptures when I first became a member of the Church in 2001-2002, and while on my mission from 2002-2004, but then I just kind of petered out after that. For a long time now, my scripture "study" involves reading 5 versus in the Book of Mormon while laying in bed late at night, right before I pass out. I'll be the first to admit that that is not actual scripture study. As a matter of fact, it barely counts as reading either.
So, here is where repentance comes in. I am starting off new by embracing an in-depth study of the scriptures. My current calling is as the Ward Mission Leader. As such, it seems only appropriate that I use the Missionaries' study manual, "Preach My Gospel," to conduct my own study. It provides a solid framework for scripture study and it will also help me to come closer to the Missionaries in their efforts to preach the gospel.
I am not necessarily following any direct study plan. I will begin at the beginning of the manual but I may jump around to different parts depending on how I feel. My goal is to let the Spirit guide my studying. I feel that He has brought me to this point and so this is where I will begin. I plan on taking my time and soaking up as much as possible. If I seem to be going slow or taking my time, it's because I am...because I want to immerse myself and enjoy this experience.
So, here is where repentance comes in. I am starting off new by embracing an in-depth study of the scriptures. My current calling is as the Ward Mission Leader. As such, it seems only appropriate that I use the Missionaries' study manual, "Preach My Gospel," to conduct my own study. It provides a solid framework for scripture study and it will also help me to come closer to the Missionaries in their efforts to preach the gospel.
I am not necessarily following any direct study plan. I will begin at the beginning of the manual but I may jump around to different parts depending on how I feel. My goal is to let the Spirit guide my studying. I feel that He has brought me to this point and so this is where I will begin. I plan on taking my time and soaking up as much as possible. If I seem to be going slow or taking my time, it's because I am...because I want to immerse myself and enjoy this experience.
I invite you to follow along. I will post questions and challenges from the manual, to which I will then address and/or answer. I invite you to do the same. Let me know your thoughts and answers to the questions and challenges posed. Your responses do not have to be the same as mine...as a matter of fact, I hope they differ to a certain degree. Not so much out of a difference in doctrine (though I'll take that too as long as it's with respect and not meant as a cold, closed-minded attack on beliefs) but more out of a difference in perspective. Learning is limited according to perspective. My goal is to learn as much as I can and to help others learn as well.
With that all being said, I hope this proves to be successful and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you in advance for your patience and participation. Again, please feel free to leave comments or send me questions any time.
Here we go!