Today's Thought

"Neither Satan nor any other power can weaken or destroy your growing character. Only you could do that through disobedience. That is why Satan is so intently focused on tempting you to make decisions that will undermine your character. Satan is an accomplished master at making devastating choices appear attractive, even reasonable. So be careful. At this critical time of life you will be faced with many choices. The decisions you will make will profoundly affect life now and for eternity. Make them wisely and prayerfully."

--RICHARD G. SCOTT



Friday, March 22, 2019

Study Skills

For the Study skills the past few weeks, these are the insights that I have gained and want to practice more.

Flag phrases – in Matthew 42 starts “Watch therefore”, 43 “But know this”, 44 “Therefore”. All of these are ready to tell me something and I need to pay attention. More than likely there will be a commandment or a guideline on what I need to do as well.

One of the most important flag phrases is in John 13:34-35. “A new commandment I give unto you, (pay attention because the Savior commands me to do the following) That ye love one another; as I have love you, that ye also love one another.”

Lists – This lesson included the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matt 25:1-13). Even though the scripture itself didn’t elaborate on the “lists” of things that the oil could represent, the Study Manual and my own experiences combine a list for this parable. There are many things on a list that you cannot “give away” to someone else. These things are only for us to work on and improve upon throughout our lives. What woman doesn’t like lists? Except in this case, the list sometimes represents all the things that I am failing at. However, if I just focus on a few items at a time on the “gospel list” and do my best, I am not failing. There will be certain times in my life that other items will be of more importance. The key is to not procrastinate but not overwhelm myself as well.
Flag phrases – I need to slow down while reading, especially when the flag phrases pop up. Sometimes I just get reading and my mind wanders but if I pay attention at least with this study skill, then hopefully I won’t miss something.

I have been struggling with a little of complacency or depression the last few weeks and so some of my reading hasn't been as intense. As I reflect on the study skills, I am reminded that there are many blessings and guidelines in the scriptures that will help me pull out of my slum. I do NOT want to back there. I CAN do this.

No comments: