Why do we have the scriptures (From Mosiah 1)

Yesterday I picked up a book called "Rock Solid Relationships" by Wendy Watson (This is a great book so far and I recommend it). Reading the introduction I realized I needed to devote more time immersing myself in the scriptures. School has pushed my scripture study out the window. I have not put the Lord first in my studies and I need to repent.

This morning I started in Mosiah and it is interesting because the first few versus are all about the scriptures. The Lord is definitely telling me something. So I thought I would share some of my thoughts.

Versus 1-8 are very important versus because they teach us why the scriptures both modern(v. 2 "that they might know concerning the prophesies which had been spoken by the mouths of their fathers") and ancient scripture (v. 3 "he also taught them concerning the records which were engraven on the plates of brass) are important.

Here is a list about why we need the scriptures from the first 8 versus.

We need them:

1. So we will not suffer in ignorance at this present time v. 2

2. So we will know the mysteries of God v. 2

3. So we can remember the words of the Lord v.3

4. So we can teach them to our children and continue the tradition of educating future generations concerning the Lord v.4

5. So we don't dwindle in unbelief v.5

6. So we can bear testimony of the truthfulness of the Word of God v.6

7. So that we can improve our lives (profit) v. 7

8. So that we can keep that commandments of God v.7

9. So that we can prosper temporally (Prosper in the land) v.8

Out of the reasons listed above "dwindling in unbelief" really struck me. We can be in the church, go to our meetings, do our callings, serve others and still be dwindling. These things for the most part, even though good things, are social. We can get lots of social mileage out of those activities and miss the spiritual boat. To enhance these aspects of church service we need to immerse ourselves in scripture study.

The scriptures can become the Liahona that directs us to the more important things that will help us become who we are suppose to be. The spirit can teach us as we read and help refine us and our relationships. But the most important thing is that we will feel God's love. This in turn will help us to love others. By loving others we fullfill God's plan.

Personal scripture study is one of the best ways to receive personal revelation and feel the presence of the Lord in our lives. Going to Him daily in scripture study helps to keep us steady in a world that is constantly trying to knock us down. When we don't read from the scriptures often we deny ourselves of all the blessings listed above as well as the vital personal revelation that we need to feel to direct our lives and conquer adversity.

If you feel yourself "dwindling"(the dictionary definition is "to become less steady") then turn to the Lord by immersing yourself in His word and He will keep you steady.