4 Tips for Better Scripture Study

If you have ever wondered how to make a scripture study a priority, you’re not alone! Developing a strong scripture study habit can bring personal revelation, peace, and a deeper connection to God. However, I have found that many Latter-day Saints struggle with creating a consistent habit, actually enjoying the scriptures, and understanding them. Here are some practical tips to help you make scripture study a natural and uplifting part of your life.

How to Make Scripture Study a Habit

Like any important aspect of life, scripture study improves with consistency. Here are a few ways to build a habit:

• Schedule It: Set a specific time each day—morning, lunch break, or before bed—when you can read without distractions.
• Start Small: If you’re struggling, begin with just five minutes a day and gradually increase your time.
• Use Reminders: Set alarms, use sticky notes, or mark your planner to keep scripture study a priority.
• Habit-Stack: Pair scripture study with something you already do—like eating breakfast or winding down at night.
• Be Accountable: Study with a friend, family member, or group to encourage consistency. I do this with my General Conference study and it helps soooo much!

How to Enjoy Scripture Study

If reading scriptures feels like a chore, try these strategies to make it more engaging:

• Find What Inspires You: Some prefer the poetry of Isaiah, while others connect with Christ’s parables or the war chapters in Alma. Identify the sections that resonate most with you.
• Use Study Guides: Church-provided manuals, podcasts, and commentaries can help add context and understanding.
• Experiment with Different Formats: Listen to audio scriptures, watch video explanations, study by topic, or read different translations. Right now I’m using the app Goodnotes to make my digital scriptures more interactive!
• Highlight and Journal: Mark verses that stand out and write down personal insights in a study journal.
• Make it Interactive: Discuss with friends or family, role-play scripture stories with kids, or create art inspired by verses.

How to Deepen Your Understanding

If scriptures seem difficult to comprehend, here’s how to study more effectively:

• Pray for Guidance: Ask for the Spirit’s help to understand and apply what you read.
• Use This Study Guide: Learn how to study, get reading charts already made for you, and learn unique study methods!
• Use Cross-References: Check footnotes, related scriptures, and General Conference talks to gain deeper insight.
• Look for Patterns and Themes: The scriptures are full of repeated messages—notice them to better grasp the doctrine.
• Ask Questions: Pause and ask, “What does this teach me about Christ?” or “How does this apply to my life?”
• Take It Slow: Instead of rushing, focus on a single chapter, verse, or even a phrase to extract meaning.

How to Apply the Scriptures to Your Life

Knowledge without action has little impact. So, here’s how to bring the scriptures into your daily life:

• Turn Verses into Personal Goals: If you read about faith, challenge yourself to trust God more that day.
• Memorize Key Scriptures: Carry uplifting verses in your heart for when you need them most.
• Look for Personal Parallels: See how scriptural stories mirror your own challenges and triumphs.
• Act on Impressions: If a verse prompts a thought or feeling, take action immediately.

By developing a habit, finding joy in study, deepening your understanding, and applying what you learn, scripture study can become a treasured part of your life. I know that as you dedicate time to God’s word, you will feel His presence more fully and receive the guidance you seek.