Several years ago, my relief society presidency decided to start a weekly scripture study class for the sisters in the ward. They asked one of my neighbors to teach the class. She was very dedicated and put together amazing lessons and I went every week. I studied on my own before each class and learned so much from her. After over a year of this class, this wonderful sister got sick. She had already had 3 liver transplants and needed another. When she went into the hospital, her husband asked me to sub for her. She never got better and I continued teaching every week, even after she passed away.
This was a huge turning point for my personal scripture study. As I studied each week with the intention of sharing my thoughts with the sisters who attended the class, I understood and noticed so much more from the scriptures. I saw connections that I had never seen before and I was able to relate them to my daily life on a level I had never had before. I also was richly blessed by the amazing sisters who came regularly and shared their insights with me. I learned so much from them, as well.
I taught this class weekly for almost 4 years. Then I was offered a job teaching part time, and I had to quit teaching this class. My personal study continued to be regular after this, but I lost the weekly experience of sharing what I learned from others and hearing what they were learning as well. I felt this loss keenly.
When the Come Follow Me program was started this year, I got some of this back. Now as I read, I think of what I should share with my family and I’m learning on a deeper level again. My study time is more energized as I feel greater responsibility to teach and share with my family.
My mom started a group of several single sisters in her ward, since she doesn’t have anyone at home with her anymore. They study the scriptures together and it has been a blessing for her.
So my tip for today is to find people to study with on a regular basis and pour your heart into finding meaningful ways to share with those people, whether it is your family or another group. Your personal study will improve and you will bless others, as well. Happy studying!
